GG News Bureau
Ahmedabad, 22nd Feb. Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the Golden Jubilee celebration of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, Ahmedabad today.
Amidst a jubilant atmosphere, the Prime Minister took a walkthrough of the exhibition showcased on the occasion and unveiled the Golden Jubilee Coffee Table Book, commemorating the remarkable journey of GCMMF.
In his address to the gathering, Prime Minister Modi congratulated everyone on the momentous occasion, lauding GCMMF as a testimony to the resilience of cooperatives, the entrepreneurial spirit of farmers, and the strong determination that has propelled Amul to become one of the world’s leading dairy brands.
Reflecting on the transformative journey of Amul, the Prime Minister remarked that a sapling planted 50 years ago by the farmers of Gujarat has blossomed into a giant tree with branches spreading across the globe. He paid tribute to the invaluable contribution of ‘Pashu Dhan’, highlighting their pivotal role in the white revolution.
Prime Minister Modi underlined the unparalleled success of Amul, stating that it stands as a symbol of strength for the livestock keepers of India. He emphasized that Amul epitomizes trust, development, public participation, empowerment of farmers, and technological advancements over time. The Prime Minister reiterated that Amul serves as an inspiration for Atmanirbhar Bharat, noting its global footprint with products exported to over 50 countries.
Highlighting the organization’s achievements, Prime Minister Modi mentioned the extensive network of milk cooperative committees, the processing of more than 3.5 crore liters of milk per day, and online payments to livestock breeders worth over Rs 200 crores. He underscored the pivotal role played by small livestock breeders in the monumental success of Amul and its cooperatives.
Recalling the origins of Amul in the Kheda Milk Union under the guidance of Sardar Patel, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the balance between cooperatives and government efforts, which has propelled India to become the largest milk-producing nation globally, employing 8 crore people. He commended the significant increase in milk production and per capita availability in the last decade, highlighting India’s dairy sector’s robust growth rate of 6 percent per year.
Emphasizing the central role of women in the dairy sector, Prime Minister Modi noted that up to 70 percent of the sector is helmed by women. He hailed their contribution as the real backbone of the dairy sector and cited the success of women-led development initiatives such as Mudra Yojana and PM Awas Yojana.
Prime Minister Modi expressed delight at the growing participation of women in dairy cooperative committees and praised efforts to disburse dairy income directly into their bank accounts. He lauded initiatives such as the Namo Drone Didi Scheme and the distribution of Rupay Kisan Credit Cards to livestock breeders.
Turning his focus to rural development, Prime Minister Modi underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening the rural economy. He outlined initiatives aimed at easing the lives of small farmers, expanding animal husbandry, promoting fisheries and honey beekeeping, and providing modernized seeds and animal healthcare.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the government’s proactive measures to address water scarcity and enhance rural economies, including the construction of Amrit Sarovar reservoirs and promoting efficient irrigation methods like drip irrigation. He announced schemes such as the Gobar Dhan Yojana to purchase cow dung for biogas production and emphasized the government’s focus on promoting cooperative societies as drivers of economic growth.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his best wishes to Amul on reaching the milestone of 50 years, expressing confidence in its continued success. He urged Amul to strive towards becoming the world’s largest dairy company and assured the government’s unwavering support in this endeavor.
The celebration witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat; Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel; Union Minister of State for Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries of India, Parshottam Rupala; and Chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Shamal B Patel, among others.
More than 1.25 lakh farmers participated in the festivities, marking a historic milestone in Amul’s illustrious journey.
