World Milk Day (WMD) is annually celebrated across the world on 1st June to create awareness about the importance of milk, one of the most widely produced and valuable agricultural commodities on Earth.
The day recognises milk as global food and celebrates the dairy sector.
The day aims to create awareness about the benefits of milk and dairy products highlighting the contribution of Dairy industries in providing livelihood to billions of people across the globe.
- The annual observance of World Milk Day is led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
The common theme of the observance is “The potency of milk and the milk industry.”
Background:
The observance of World Milk Day was initiated by the FAO in 2001 to provide an opportunity to bring attention to activities that are connected with the dairy sector.
- The first-ever World Milk Day was observed on 1st June 2001.
Note: World Milk Day is yet to be recognized as an official international day by the United Nations(UN).
Why June 1?
June 1 was chosen for the observance of World Milk Day since several countries across the globe celebrate their national milk day on or around June 1.
Significance of WMD 2023:
WMD 2023 will focus on showcasing how dairy is reducing its environmental footprint, while also providing nutritious foods and livelihoods.
- The dairy sector drives an active narrative that integrates the environmental, nutritional and societal impacts of the sector.
The dairy sector contributes to the
- Good food, health and nutrition.
- Farmers caring responsibly for their communities, the land and their animals.
- Economic development and livelihoods.
India’s National Milk Day:
India celebrates National Milk Day on 26th November, the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, who is also known as the ‘Father of White Revolution“.
About Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO):
Director-General– Qu Dongyu
Headquarters– Rome, Italy
