Father of White Revolution in India?
VerifiedAnswer: Dr Verghese Kurien
Explanation:
Dr Verghese Kurien is rightfully called the Father of the White Revolution in India for his extraordinary contribution to transforming India's dairy industry. Born in 1921 in Kerala, he revolutionized milk production and distribution across the country through innovative cooperative models that empowered farmers and made India the world's largest milk producer.
The White Revolution, also known as Operation Flood, was launched in 1970 under Dr Kurien's leadership. This ambitious program aimed to increase milk production, improve rural incomes, and ensure fair prices for both farmers and consumers. The revolution was implemented in three phases from 1970 to 1996, covering the entire country and connecting rural milk producers with urban consumers through an efficient supply chain network.
Dr Kurien's most significant achievement was establishing the Anand Pattern of cooperative dairy development in Gujarat. This model created a three-tier structure consisting of village-level dairy cooperative societies, district-level milk unions, and state-level dairy federations. The success of this model in Anand became the foundation for replicating similar cooperatives across India, ultimately benefiting millions of dairy farmers.
Under his guidance, India transformed from a milk-deficient nation to the world's largest milk producer. The country's milk production increased from 17 million tonnes in 1950-51 to over 176 million tonnes today. This remarkable growth not only achieved self-sufficiency but also created sustainable livelihoods for millions of rural families, particularly women who became active participants in dairy cooperatives.
Dr Kurien's contributions were recognized globally through numerous awards and honors. He received the Ramon Magsaysay Award, Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan for his outstanding service to the nation. The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), which he founded and led for decades, continues to promote cooperative dairy development and support farmers across India.
The White Revolution's success story demonstrates how cooperative movements can create sustainable rural development and economic empowerment. Dr Kurien's vision of putting farmers first and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their produce became a model for agricultural development worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire cooperative movements and rural development initiatives across developing nations, making him truly deserving of the title "Father of White Revolution in India."
