Milk Consumption Disparities in India

Despite India's success in becoming the world's largest milk producer due to the White Revolution, there are significant disparities in milk consumption across different socio-economic groups and regions.

Importance of Milk

• Milk is a vital source of protein, calcium, and other micronutrients.
• Research links milk consumption to lower odds of stunting, underweight, and anthropometric failure in children aged 6 months to 5 years.

Disparities in Milk Consumption

• Top-income households consume 3-4 times more milk per capita compared to the lowest-income households.
• The poorest 30% consume only 18% of India's milk.
• Consumption disparities are evident in urban-rural and regional divides, with urban households consuming 30% more milk per capita.
• Scheduled Tribe households consume four litres less milk per capita compared to general category households.
• States like Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana have higher per capita consumption compared to eastern states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal.

Barriers

• Affordability: Meeting the recommended 300g of milk daily would require 70% of households to spend a significant portion of their monthly expenditure on milk.
• Overconsumption: Affluent households often consume more than double the recommended levels, leading to concerns about overnutrition and non-communicable diseases.

Recommendations:

• Enhance milk provision through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (POSHAN) and Integrated Child Development Services.
• Boost financial allocations and explore innovative financing options such as social bonds and CSR funding.
• Emphasize nutritional benefits and healthy consumption through awareness campaigns.
• Encourage moderation in milk consumption among affluent groups.