Speakers at the event stressed that India must move beyond isolated pilot projects and create an integrated dairy value chain that improves productivity while building resilience. Officials highlighted the need to connect policy, financing, markets and advisory services, while also creating new income opportunities for farmers through better use of by-products such as manure and dung.

The consultation identified several priorities for the sector, including stronger feed and nutrition systems, better animal health, improved breeding and wider support for women and smallholder producers. Financial institutions said climate resilience is no longer optional for the dairy industry and warned that future growth will depend on the ability to protect farmer incomes while reducing vulnerability to climate shocks.

Industry leaders also called for faster adoption of practical technologies and scalable solutions. Discussions focused on expanding digital tools, improving last-mile veterinary and nutrition services, strengthening cooperatives and using innovative financing models to help farmers invest in resilient practices. Participants said private companies, producer groups and government agencies must work together more closely if successful projects are to be expanded nationwide.