Amul’s Managing Director, Jayen Mehta, honors Dr. Verghese Kurien’s legacy at the 11th Memorial Oration in Jamshedpur, emphasizing the cooperative model’s impact on India’s dairy sector.
At the 11th Dr. Verghese Kurien Memorial Oration, hosted by XLRI in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India, Amul’s Managing Director, Jayen Mehta, honored the transformative impact of cooperative models on India’s dairy sector. Speaking on October 4, 2024, Mehta celebrated the visionary work of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the architect of the Indian White Revolution, who made India the largest global producer of milk.
Cooperative Models and Rural Livelihood
Amul, the Gujarat-based dairy cooperative, plays a significant role in India’s dairy industry. Founded on Dr. Kurien’s vision, it provides livelihoods for millions of rural families. In his address, Mehta emphasized how Dr. Kurien’s cooperative model has not only transformed the dairy industry but also created a lifeline for millions of rural Indians. “Dairy isn’t just a business here; it’s a source of livelihood,” he stated, highlighting how this model ensures rural employment and economic growth.
India’s Global Leadership in Dairy
Mehta proudly shared that India, which has been the world’s largest milk producer since 1997, is set to supply a third of the world’s milk. He expressed his admiration for Dr. Kurien’s vision, which inspired each Indian state to develop its own dairy brand, similar to the IPL’s decentralized model. This decentralization and democratization of dairy production have strengthened India’s position in the global dairy market.
Amul’s Global Expansion
As part of its international expansion, Amul recently launched its milk products in the U.S. market, marking a milestone in its global strategy. Mehta also announced the cooperative’s upcoming entry into the European market, a significant move for both Amul and the Indian dairy sector.
A Tribute to Dr. Kurien’s Legacy
The event also saw the participation of Dr. Kurien’s daughter, Nirmala Kurien, who reflected on her father’s legacy and urged attendees to carry forward his ideals of social justice and big dreams. Fr. S. George, S.J., Director of XLRI, praised Dr. Kurien’s lifelong dedication to societal transformation, noting that the Indian dairy industry now engages 70 million rural households, with women making up 70% of the workforce.
Amul’s Growth and Success
Amul’s journey, which began under Dr. Kurien’s leadership, continues to thrive. With daily milk collection exceeding 31 million liters from 107 dairy plants, a turnover of ₹80,000 crores, and a portfolio of more than 50 products, Amul stands as the world’s strongest dairy and food brand. Owned by 3.6 million farmers, Amul exemplifies the success of Dr. Kurien’s cooperative vision.
This tribute to Dr. Kurien at XLRI echoed the profound and lasting impact of his work on India’s dairy industry and its role in empowering rural communities.
