The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has released its comprehensive Year-End Review for 2025, highlighting significant growth, innovations, and expanded support for India’s livestock and dairy sector.
According to the official review, India saw unprecedented achievements in milk and egg production, reinforcing the livestock sector’s critical role in strengthening the agricultural economy. The sector grew at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.77% from 2014-15 to 2023-24, and contributed significantly to agriculture’s Gross Value Added (GVA). India now ranks first in global milk production, accounting for about 25% of the world’s output.
Milk Production Surge:
India’s milk production reached a remarkable 247.87 million tonnes during 2024-25, registering robust growth over the past decade. This dramatic rise reflects sustained improvements in animal genetics, breeding, and dairy infrastructure across states.
Egg and Meat Output:
Egg production also recorded notable gains, more than doubling in the past decade, while meat production climbed significantly. These combined achievements underline India’s expanding capacity in livestock products, boosting both nutrition security and rural incomes.
Expansion of Services & Facilities:
The government’s focus on grassroots support saw 4,019 Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs) operating nationwide, offering free veterinary services and strengthening rural animal healthcare. The number of veterinary colleges expanded from 36 to 84 institutions, increasing access to professional livestock care and education.
Technology & Genetic Gains:
A major step forward in breed improvement was the Regional Center of Excellence (CoE) for Indigenous Breeds inaugurated in Motihari with an investment of ₹33.80 crore. Research initiatives like unified genomic chips for cattle and buffaloes aim to accelerate genetic selection and productivity.
Farmer Support & Credit:
The review also reported that over 45.60 lakh fresh Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) were sanctioned for dairy farmers, enhancing credit access for milk cooperatives and producer companies. This move is expected to improve dairy production economics and strengthen rural livelihoods.
Key Government Schemes:
Schemes such as the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) and the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) were pivotal in upgrading dairy infrastructure and expanding cooperative networks across states. Projects under these programs have translated into new dairy societies, processing units, milk testing labs and expanded market linkages for farmers.
Overall, 2025 marked a year of record outputs, technology adoption and systemic growth in India’s animal husbandry and dairy sector, reaffirming its strategic importance to the nation’s rural economy and food security.
