From rural prosperity to national service: Yogi’s UP leads India in milk production, supplies indigenous dairy to Army

The Yogi Adityanath government’s focus on cow protection and the promotion of indigenous cattle breeds is now creating an impact beyond the rural economy. Milk products made from native cow breeds in Uttar Pradesh are being supplied to the Indian Army, where they are being used as a nutritious food supplement to help improve the fitness, energy levels, and immunity of soldiers.

Skyr-based products are becoming popular among soldiers

One of the key products gaining attention is Skyr, a high-protein dairy product prepared from the milk of indigenous cows. Rich in protein, low in fat, and packed with natural nutrients, the product is increasingly being used to support the nutritional needs of Army personnel.

Skyr is a traditional dairy product that is often described as a combination of yoghurt and cheese. It has a mildly sour taste and was widely consumed by Viking warriors nearly 1,000 years ago. Compared to many regular dairy products, it contains more protein and much less fat.

Modern technology meets indigenous dairy farming

For the first time in Uttar Pradesh, Skyr and related dairy products are being manufactured using advanced ultra-filtration technology from Denmark, along with Icelandic processing methods. The dairy range includes Skyr, Greek yoghurt, gelato ice cream, Skyr powder, yoghurt powder, cheese, and ghee.

Modern processing and ultrafiltration techniques help improve the quality and nutritional value of these products. Dairy experts believe that products made from indigenous cow milk can help strengthen muscles, improve immunity, and provide extra energy.

Noida dairy model gains national attention

A unique dairy project in Noida, developed by Prayagraj-based engineer S.N. Dwivedi, is attracting attention for combining cow protection, employment generation, and modern dairy technology. The dairy houses more than 250 indigenous cows, including Gir and Sahiwal breeds.

According to Dwivedi, the milk produced by these breeds naturally contains high-quality protein and several essential nutrients. Growing demand for these milk products from the Indian Army has further strengthened the business model.

Expansion plans in Aligarh

Encouraged by the success of the project, Dwivedi is now developing a modern cowshed in Aligarh that will have the capacity to accommodate 500 indigenous cows. He said that the inspiration and support provided by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath encouraged him to expand his efforts in cow service and cow protection on a much larger scale.

He believes the model demonstrates how traditional cow care can be linked with modern business opportunities, creating jobs and contributing to economic growth in rural areas.

Cow-based economy emerging as a new growth model

Mukesh Meshram, Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department, said that the cow-based economy being developed in Uttar Pradesh is becoming an important pillar of a self-reliant India. He noted that the state’s efforts are creating new opportunities for farmers, dairy entrepreneurs, and rural communities while also strengthening national interests.

According to him, Uttar Pradesh’s approach is now being viewed as a model that can be adopted across the country.

Linking cow protection with nation-building

Shyam Bihari Gupta, Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Cow Service Commission, said that initiatives taken by the Yogi government for cow protection are producing visible results. He highlighted the role of modern cow shelters, advanced dairy technology, digital marketing, and value-added dairy products in giving the state a new identity at the national level.

He added that while cow-based activities are generating employment in villages, they are also contributing to national service through the supply of nutritious dairy products to Indian Army personnel. According to him, the growing cow-based economy under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is emerging as a strong pillar of self-reliant India and is becoming an example for other states to follow.