India’s dairy sector, contributing 25% of global milk output, is embracing digital tools like AI, blockchain, and mobile apps to boost productivity, transparency, and farmer welfare. Valued at ₹16,792 billion in 2023, the industry is projected to triple by 2032.
India’s dairy industry, the world’s largest milk producer contributing nearly 25% of global output, is undergoing a remarkable digital transformation aimed at enhancing productivity, transparency, and farmer welfare. Government officials and industry leaders confirmed that technology adoption is reshaping the sector, aligning with India’s broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Key Highlights
-
Digital Push: The government has rolled out initiatives to digitize dairy supply chains, ensuring traceability from farm to consumer. This includes blockchain-based tracking, AI-driven herd management, and mobile apps for farmers to monitor milk yields and animal health.
-
Farmer Empowerment: Digital tools are being deployed to provide real-time advisory services, financial inclusion, and direct market access, reducing dependency on middlemen and improving income security.
-
AI & Automation: Experts, including Dr. Kavya Dashora of IIT Delhi, emphasize that AI-driven solutions—such as predictive analytics for feed optimization and disease detection—are critical for long-term resilience.
-
Market Growth: India’s dairy industry, valued at ₹16,792 billion in 2023, is projected to reach ₹49,953 billion by 2032, driven by rising disposable incomes, health-conscious consumers, and demand for value-added products like cheese, curd, and butter.
-
Consumer Benefits: Digitalization ensures hygienically processed, traceable, and market-ready dairy products, meeting evolving consumer expectations for safety and quality.
-
Global Context: With India’s dairy sector already a global leader, digital transformation is expected to strengthen its competitiveness in exports while ensuring sustainability in domestic operations.
Industry Outlook
The digital shift is not just about technology—it represents a structural change in India’s rural economy. By integrating farmers into digital ecosystems, the sector aims to reduce inefficiencies, improve productivity, and enhance profitability. Analysts believe that this transformation will also help India meet its climate goals by promoting sustainable practices such as energy-efficient cold chains and smart packaging solutions.
For investors, the digitalization of dairy presents opportunities in agri-tech startups, IoT-enabled devices, and AI-driven platforms. For consumers, it promises safer, higher-quality products with transparent sourcing. For farmers, it offers empowerment, financial stability, and a stronger voice in the value chain.
Sources: Lokmat Times, AgriMoon – Dr. Kavya Dashora Lecture, Anuga FoodTec India Dairy 2026 Report
