Dr. Verghese Kurien, known as the “Milkman of India,” transformed India’s dairy industry through “Operation Flood,” also known as the “White Revolution.” He turned India around from being a milk-deficient nation to the world’s largest producer of milk through his “Anand pattern” of milk production by establishing farmer-owned dairy cooperatives.
- Anand Pattern:
Dr. Kurien developed what is now known as the “Anand pattern” of milk production, where farmers own and operate their co-operatives while controlling their own produce. - Operation Flood:
Operation Flood was the largest dairy development project ever — launched in 1970, it aimed to increase milk production and improve the conditions of the dairy farmers. - National Dairy Development Board (NDDB):
He founded the NDDB (non-government organization) which was the driving force behind Operation Flood and pivotal in helping develop the dairy industry in India. - Amul:
He co-founded Amul in Gujarat and helped develop it into an important Milk Co-operative and more importantly a symbol of the White Revolution. - Infrastructure Development:
Operation Flood also focused on dairy infrastructure, such as milk collection centres, processing plants, and distribution networks. - Farmer Control:
Dr. Kurien ensured that farmers controlled their resources and decision-making about what to do. They were able to benefit directly from the increased milk production. - International Recognition:
Dr. Kurien has received a myriad of awards and accolades for his work in the dairy industry, including the World Food Prize in 1989 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999.
