Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains has always focused on the main cause of hunger (2018) and poverty and hunger in India (2019).

India’s White Revolution made it the world’s top milk producer, but now the focus should shift to ensuring milk reaches the most vulnerable. Milk is an important source of protein and calcium, especially for children. However, there are significant differences in milk consumption across income groups and regions. Addressing these gaps is crucial for better health outcomes.

Today’s editorial discusses how milk should be accessible to everyone in India and highlights the differences in milk availability. It looks at how these issues are connected to topics in GS Paper 1, 2, and 3, such as social inequalities, health, and policy solutions. 

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Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

The challenge is making sure that the most vulnerable people have fair access to milk, while also controlling how much milk is consumed by wealthier people.

What is the disparity in milk consumption? 

• Income-Based Disparities: Households in the top-income decile consume 3-4 times more milk per capita compared to those in the lowest-income decile. Despite increases in milk consumption among lower-income groups, the poorest 30% account for just 18% of India’s milk.
• Urban vs. Rural and Regional Disparities: Urban households consume ~30% more milk per capita than rural households, despite rural areas being the main milk producers.
  • Additionally, northern states like Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana have higher consumption (333g-421g), while eastern states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal have much lower consumption (75g-171g).
• Social Group Disparities: Scheduled Tribe households consume 4 litres less milk per capita annually compared to general category households, highlighting social and economic inequalities in milk access.

What are the nutritional implications of milk consumption in India?

• Protein Source: Milk is a rich source of high-quality protein. In India, it contributes significantly to daily protein intake, especially for children and adults in rural areas. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), over 70% of children in India consume milk, making it a key protein source.
• Calcium and Bone Health: Milk provides essential calcium, which is vital for bone health. Around 67% of Indian households consume milk, helping to prevent calcium deficiency, particularly in growing children and elderly populations, which can lead to conditions like osteoporosis.
• Micronutrients and Vitamin D: Milk is also a good source of vitamins such as B12 and D, essential for immune function and energy production. The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) states that milk helps in reducing vitamin D deficiency, which is prevalent in India due to limited sunlight exposure.

How can policy interventions address disparities in milk production and access?

• Enhancing Milk Provision: Increase milk availability for vulnerable populations through government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (POSHAN) and Integrated Child Development Services. States can collaborate with nutrition institutes to align milk products with local dietary preferences.
• Financial Support: Boost financial allocations for existing schemes to ensure adequate milk provision, especially in states where such programs have been discontinued due to budget constraints.
• Nutritional Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns focusing on the benefits of milk consumption, targeting women through various community channels. This can help improve dietary diversity within households.

What strategies can be implemented to promote sustainable dairy practices?

• Healthy Consumption Awareness: Develop partnerships with healthcare professionals and media to promote balanced diets and moderation in dairy consumption among affluent groups.
  • For example, Campaigns similar to the UK’s Change4Life initiative could serve as effective models for India.
• Investing in Dairy Infrastructure: The government should continue investing in dairy infrastructure, including animal health care and fodder availability, to ensure sustainable production practices while improving yields.
• Community Engagement: Engage local communities in sustainable practices through education and training programs aimed at improving animal husbandry practices and enhancing productivity without compromising environmental sustainability.

Way forward: 

• Increase Access for Vulnerable Groups: Expand milk distribution through government schemes (e.g., POSHAN and ICDS) and ensure adequate funding to cover vulnerable populations.
• Regional and Social Equity: Implement targeted interventions to reduce regional, income, and social disparities in milk access, such as milk coupons or subsidies for underserved areas.

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