Srinagar, March 22, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable 19.6% surge in milk production over the past year, transforming the region’s dairy sector from modest beginnings to a burgeoning industry. This impressive growth, driven by an entrepreneurial wave and strategic government support, is reshaping livelihoods and boosting the local economy.
The surge, reported under the ambitious Mission YUVA , reflects the success of initiatives aimed at empowering youth and fostering self-employment. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo recently highlighted the role of a baseline survey launched in January 2025, which identified approximately 1.37 lakh potential entrepreneurs across the Union Territory. The dairy sector has emerged as a key beneficiary, with young innovators tapping into modern techniques and market opportunities.
Local dairy farmers, supported by subsidies and training programs, have adopted advanced methods such as improved cattle breeds and efficient milking technologies. “This is a game-changer for us,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a farmer from Pulwama. “With government backing and a focus on entrepreneurship, we’re not just producing more milk—we’re building a sustainable future.”
The J&K administration has prioritized the dairy industry as part of its economic empowerment agenda. Officials estimate that milk production has risen from modest levels to meet growing demand, both locally and beyond, thanks to streamlined cooperatives and private ventures. The entrepreneurial push has also created thousands of jobs, reducing unemployment and invigorating rural communities.
Experts attribute this leap to a combination of factors: increased investment, better infrastructure, and a shift toward commercial dairy farming. “The 19.6% increase is a testament to how entrepreneurship can transform traditional sectors,” noted agricultural economist Dr. Neha Sharma. “J&K is setting a model for others to follow.”
As the region celebrates this milestone, the focus remains on sustaining the momentum. With plans to expand cold storage facilities and enhance market linkages, Jammu and Kashmir’s dairy revolution is poised for even greater heights.