India's dairy farmers battle climate change with new resilience strategies
India's dairy sector, a lifeline for around 80 million small farmers, is facing growing pressures from climate change and limited resources. Challenges like feed shortages, animal health, and sustainability are threatening productivity and livelihoods across the country. Industry leaders and policymakers recently gathered to discuss solutions for a more resilient future. The sector plays a crucial role in global milk production, but regional differences exist. States like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan rely more heavily on dairy farming than southern states such as Tamil Nadu. Experts warn that without action, climate variability could further strain feed supplies, animal welfare, and overall efficiency.
At a recent consultation, key figures stressed the need for a coordinated approach. Varsha Joshi, Additional Secretary at the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, called for end-to-end integration of the dairy value chain. This, she said, would boost farmer incomes and improve resource use.
Finance and institutional support were also highlighted as critical. NABARD Chairman Shaji K V pointed to the importance of accessible funding and risk management tools. These measures could help smallholders adopt climate-smart practices more quickly.
Hisham Mundol of the Environmental Defense Fund emphasised farmer-centric solutions. He argued that securing livelihoods and nutrition depends on putting smallholders at the heart of decision-making. Jai Agarwal, Managing Director of C.P Milk & Food Products, added that policies, finance, and market forces must align to build a climate-ready dairy ecosystem.
The discussion also focused on scaling up successful pilot projects. J Samba Murthy, Co-Chairman of the CII Animal Agriculture Committee, urged stronger collaboration between government, industry, and farmers. Better coordination, he noted, would improve animal health, nutrition, and data-driven decision-making. The consultation outlined a clear path forward: supportive policies, innovative financing, and closer institutional ties. These steps aim to speed up the adoption of climate-resilient practices while boosting productivity. For India's dairy farmers, the focus now shifts to turning these plans into action on the ground.
