Advancing Sustainable Dairying: NDDB’s Strategic Partnerships for Biogas Initiatives
On March 3, 2025, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying organized a pivotal workshop titled “Sustainability in the Dairy Sector and Circularity” at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event underscored the Indian government’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices within the dairy industry, a sector integral to the nation’s agrarian economy.
Union Minister Amit Shah, Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, and officials at the MoU signing during the Dairy Sustainability Workshop, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. (Photo Source: @NDDB_Coop/X)
Key Highlights of the Workshop
The workshop featured significant developments aimed at fostering sustainability and circularity in dairy operations:
- NDDB-NABARD Collaboration: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). This partnership is geared towards facilitating sustainable and inclusive growth in the dairy sector by providing technical, financial, and implementation support.
- Biogas Plant Initiatives: NDDB entered into MoUs with 26 Milk-Unions spanning 15 states to establish biogas plants nationwide. This initiative aligns with the principles of a circular economy, aiming to convert dairy waste into renewable energy, thereby reducing environmental impact and enhancing resource efficiency.
- Guidelines and Financing for Sustainability: Comprehensive guidelines focusing on sustainability in the dairy sector were released during the event. Additionally, NDDB launched financing initiatives under its Small-Scale Biogas, Large-Scale Biogas/Compressed Biogas projects, and the NDDB Sustain Plus Project. These measures are designed to support sustainable dairy interventions, improve manure management, generate energy, and minimize environmental footprints.
Leadership Perspectives
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability and circularity as India embarks on “White Revolution 2.0.” He highlighted that while the initial White Revolution achieved substantial progress, achieving full sustainability in dairy practices remains a challenge. Shah underscored dairy farming as a vital tool for ensuring the prosperity of small farmers and curbing rural-to-urban migration.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh noted the potential of utilizing cow dung for fuel production to enhance farmers’ incomes. With India’s livestock population exceeding 530 million, including 300 million cows and buffaloes, he stressed the potential of cow dung for organic fertilizer and biofuels, which would boost agricultural productivity.
Implications for the Dairy Sector
The initiatives unveiled during the workshop are poised to have far-reaching impacts on the dairy sector:
- Environmental Benefits: The establishment of biogas plants will facilitate the conversion of dairy waste into renewable energy, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner production processes.
- Economic Empowerment: By generating additional income streams through the sale of biogas and organic fertilizers, dairy farmers can enhance their livelihoods and achieve greater financial stability.
- Resource Efficiency: The adoption of circular economy principles ensures optimal utilization of resources, minimizing waste, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
End Note
The collaborative efforts between NDDB, NABARD, and various Milk Unions signify a transformative approach towards sustainable dairy farming in India. By integrating renewable energy solutions and circular economy practices, these initiatives not only address environmental concerns but also bolster the economic resilience of dairy farmers. As these projects unfold, they are expected to set a benchmark for sustainable practices in the global dairy industry, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in agricultural innovation.
