Dairy cooperatives movement in India: Characteristics, status and challenges

Abstract

The dairy sector is an essential sub-sector of Indian agriculture, contributing ~28% of the total agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA). Dairy cooperatives are the most effective organization in the dairy sector to provide food, nutritional, and livelihood security in India. Despite the significant positive impact on the socio-economic status of rural milk producers and growth in dairy cooperatives over four decades, DCs account only for 20% of the total marketed milk. Although the government has implemented several schemes, the expected results are not yet realized. There is a need for a sustainable development approach to overcome the challenges and strengthen the entire dairy sector in the country. Additionally, the information on factors influencing consumers' purchase intention, consumption, and satisfaction with dairy products may provide a promising path for entrepreneurs to deliver high-value-added dairy products and gain a premium price.