GUWAHATI: Assam has been striving towards self-sufficiency in meat and dairy production for years, with an increasing demand for these products running parallel to the state’s growing population. While the state is proud to supply its own people, it also plays a significant role as a supplier for neighbouring Northeastern states. This dual responsibility has posed a challenge, occasionally undermining efforts to reach complete self-sufficiency for Assam’s own residents.
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Recent statistics suggest that Assam is making strides in fulfilling its local demand, though challenges remain. The Assam Livestock Development Agency (ALDA), Directorate of Dairy Development, and other related bodies have made considerable efforts to ramp up production. Their focus has been on improving local breeds, introducing modern techniques, and increasing productivity in both the dairy and meat industries.
The milk situation: Fluctuating yet growing
Milk production in Assam has steadily grown, with the state registering substantial increases year on year. From a domestic standpoint, much of the local milk market is informally organised. Vendors often deliver milk directly to households in containers or sell loose packets at various street locations. This aspect of the business is controlled by local organisations that have dominated the market for years, but, notably, the sector is largely unregulated by government authorities.
In recent months, the price of milk in Guwahati has fluctuated, reflecting both the demand and lack of formal control over the supply chain. However, the commercial milk sector has seen a boom, thanks to private players like Purabi, Sudha, Sitajakhala, and the nationwide giant Amul. Packaged milk has become an essential product for many households, and the involvement of private players has contributed to a much-needed formalisation of the sector.
Artificial insemination, introduced in 2004-05, has been a game changer for milk production in Assam. The crossbreeding of local cattle with high-yielding breeds has had a remarkable effect. The indigenous 'Lakhimi' cows, which typically produce around 2-3 litres of milk per day, pale in comparison to the crossbred cows, which produce an impressive 10-12 litres per day. Further advancements in crossbreeding technology are expected to enhance milk production even more, making the industry more efficient.
Official data reveals that Assam produced 1,069.47 million litres of milk in the 2022-23 period, and that figure rose by an additional 42.53 million litres in 2023-24, bringing the total to 1,112 million litres. According to an official, the state is on track to becoming self-sufficient. "Consumption of milk cannot be counted per capita, it is counted according to locations. And according to that, we are managing to keep up. If it continues this way, we will be self-sufficient in due course of time," the official commented.
Yet, despite these gains, Assam still imports milk from states like Bihar for packaging purposes, indicating that there is more work to be done before true self-sufficiency is achieved.
Meat: High-Quality but facing population pressure
When it comes to meat production, Assam’s goat meat is highly valued, both within the state and beyond. An official from the Livestock Development Agency highlighted that Assam’s goats are among the most productive in India. Unlike goats from other regions, which typically give birth once a year, Assam’s goats are capable of giving birth twice annually. Additionally, while goats in other states usually have only one offspring, Assam’s goats frequently give birth to two, sometimes as many as four, kids at a time. This level of productivity is a key factor in Assam’s ability to meet the increasing demand for meat.
Despite this, the state’s rising population threatens the balance of supply and demand. While Assam remains self-sufficient in meat production for now, officials have raised concerns that shortages may arise in the near future if the population continues to grow at its current rate. Interestingly, this has not yet impacted mutton prices, which have remained stable due to steady production levels.
However, not all meat sectors in Assam are flourishing. Pig farming, for instance, has been struggling to meet local demand. While the state does produce a significant amount of pork, local breeds are insufficient to keep up with consumption patterns. To bridge the gap, pigs are regularly imported from states like Punjab and Haryana. The frequent price fluctuations in pork are a reflection of these supply issues.
Poultry: Progressing but not there yet
Poultry production in Assam is another area of focus. Although the sector is experiencing growth, with new poultry farms being established, the majority of poultry products consumed in Assam are still imported from other states. This dependency on external sources means that full self-sufficiency remains a distant goal, even as entrepreneurs in the state strive to increase production.
The growth in the poultry industry is seen as promising, but experts caution that it will take a considerable amount of time and investment before Assam can claim self-sufficiency in this area.
External Trade: A blessing and a curse?
The business dealings between Assam and other states play a crucial role in the local economy, but they also contribute to challenges in achieving self-sufficiency. Much of the milk, meat, and poultry produced in Assam is exported to neighbouring states, which creates a potential shortfall for the state’s own consumers. Although Assam is not yet entirely self-reliant, authorities are aware of these issues and are working towards solutions.
State and central government initiatives are in place to encourage local entrepreneurs to invest in meat and dairy production. Various schemes have been introduced to offer subsidies and financial assistance to businesses looking to expand these sectors. The success of these initiatives, however, largely depends on the willingness of entrepreneurs to take up the challenge. Without their active participation, the road to self-sufficiency will remain long and uncertain.
Conclusion: Hope on the Horizon
While Assam has made significant progress in meat and dairy production, there are still hurdles to overcome. The state is well on its way to becoming self-sufficient, but fluctuating prices, dependency on imports, and external trade pressures continue to complicate the situation. Authorities are optimistic, and with continued focus on local entrepreneurship and technological advancements, self-sufficiency could be within reach. But for now, it remains a work in progress.
