In a vibrant display of Punjab’s thriving dairy industry, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University (GADVASU) joined hands with the Indian Dairy Association (IDA) Punjab Chapter to mark National Milk Day with an inspiring seminar. Honoring Dr. Verghese Kurien, revered as the “Father of the White Revolution,” the event spotlighted his enduring legacy on his birth anniversary through a discourse titled “The Transformative Role of Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence in Dairying.”
The seminar underscored Punjab’s remarkable transformation from a milk-deficit region to a powerhouse in dairy production, significantly bolstering the national economy. Esteemed speakers illuminated the state’s journey, highlighting its shift into a leading dairy producer despite housing merely 2.16 percent of India’s bovine population. Punjab alone contributes an impressive 6.40 percent (13.40 million tonnes) to the country’s annual milk supply.
Dr. J P S Gill, Vice-Chancellor of GADVASU and the event’s chief guest, emphasized the livestock sector’s critical role in Punjab’s agrarian economy, which accounts for approximately 39 percent of the state’s agricultural GDP. He elaborated on the necessity of implementing robust biosecurity measures at dairy farms, combating milk adulteration through heightened public awareness, and leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance milk supply chain efficiencies.
S. Inderjit Singh Sra, Chairman of IDA Punjab Chapter, detailed the association’s extensive initiatives aimed at advancing dairy development in the region. Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Uppal, Dean of the College of Dairy and Food Science Technology and seminar convener, shed light on the pivotal role of AI and information technology in fostering precision dairy farming, underscoring the sector’s shift towards data-driven practices.
The event also featured insights from S. Daljeet Singh Gill, President of the Progressive Dairy Farmers Association Punjab, who praised the evolution of commercial dairy farms in the state. He highlighted the significance of high-quality germplasm in enhancing dairy farm productivity and sustainability. Dr. G S Bedi, Director of the Animal Husbandry Department of Punjab, advocated for the adoption of scientific methods such as vaccination and feed testing to reduce animal mortality rates and improve herd health.
Sh. Ramesh Chugh, Vice-Chairman of IDA North Zone, outlined the association’s efforts to elevate milk processing standards and empower women through targeted awards and programs, fostering an inclusive growth environment within the dairy sector.
A technical session during the seminar brought together experts from various organizations to discuss the integration of AI in dairy farming. Topics ranged from transforming dairy practices and health monitoring to innovative marketing strategies. Dr. Inderpreet Kaur, Professor and Head of the Department of Dairy Economics and Business Management, led these discussions, highlighting the importance of meticulous record-keeping and cost estimation in the professional management of dairy enterprises.
The event attracted around 200 participants, including stakeholders from the dairy industry, government dairy development departments, academia, dairy farmers, and enthusiastic students. Their collective presence underscored the community’s commitment to advancing Punjab’s dairy landscape through innovation and collaboration.
As Punjab continues to set benchmarks in dairy production, the collaboration between GADVASU and IDA Punjab Chapter on National Milk Day serves as a testament to the state’s dedication to embracing technological advancements and fostering sustainable growth in the dairy sector.
