Shastri’s visionary NDDB forged a dairy powerhouse, prioritizing producers and transforming rural economies.
India’s monumental “White Revolution” was not merely about increasing milk production; it was a profound socio-economic transformation driven by a “farmers-first” philosophy. At its heart was the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), established by then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1965. This visionary move laid the groundwork for a robust cooperative structure that empowered millions of rural households, fundamentally reshaping India’s dairy economics and serving as a global model for agricultural development.
The NDDB’s unparalleled success is largely attributed to its farmer-centric approach, meticulously spearheaded by the legendary Verghese Kurien. His leadership ensured that the benefits of increased dairy output directly accrued to the producers themselves. By mobilizing farmers into strong cooperatives and producer organizations, the NDDB guaranteed fair prices for their milk and provided essential technical support, fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem within the agribusiness sector.
While Amul stands as the most prominent and globally recognized brand emerging from the NDDB’s efforts, the Board’s mandate and support extended across a wide array of agricultural products. This diversified approach underscored a broader commitment to rural prosperity beyond just dairy, demonstrating the interconnectedness of various farm-based livelihoods and consumer markets within the Indian context.
Even decades after its inception, the NDDB continues to evolve and expand its strategic scope. Demonstrating its forward-thinking adaptability, the Board has ventured into cutting-edge areas such as green energy, aiming to integrate sustainable practices within the agricultural value chain. Furthermore, its collaboration with organizations like ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) highlights an embrace of technology to further empower and support farmers, enhancing efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
In essence, the “Real White Revolution” orchestrated by Shastri and the NDDB was a testament to the power of collective action and farmer empowerment. It established a robust cooperative framework that not only made India the world’s largest milk producer but also significantly uplifted rural economies by placing producers at the forefront. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire cooperative movements and sustainable agricultural development globally.
Source: ThePrint: Real White Revolution: Shastri’s NDDB, farmers-first economy
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