Amul's GCMMF Applauds Union Budget 2026-27 for Dairy and Cooperative Sector Boost
The Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the Amul brand, has expressed strong support for the initiatives announced in the Union Budget 2026-27. These measures are aimed at enhancing the cooperative ecosystem, dairy sector, animal husbandry infrastructure, and rural livelihoods, aligning with the government's vision of Sahakar se Samriddhi and inclusive development.
Comprehensive Growth Framework for Dairy and Cooperatives
In a detailed statement, the Federation highlighted that the budget presents a comprehensive growth framework for the dairy and cooperative sector. This framework includes several key components designed to empower millions of dairy farmers and cooperative institutions across India.
- Cooperative-Friendly Tax Reforms: These reforms are expected to simplify accounting and tax compliance significantly. Specifically, they will benefit 18,600 Village Cooperative Societies (VCSs) in Gujarat and extend similar advantages to thousands of dairy cooperatives nationwide.
- Improved Milk Logistics Infrastructure: The announcement of a new Dedicated Freight Corridor connecting Surat in the West to Dankuni in the East is a major step. Similar to the existing Gujarat–Delhi corridor, it will facilitate efficient transportation of milk and perishable dairy products, reducing logistics costs and minimising transit losses.
- Incentives for Bio-Energy and Sustainability: The budget includes Bio-CNG tax incentives and duty exemptions for renewable energy and biogas equipment. This supports rural growth and aims to achieve a 5% bio-CNG blend by 2028-29, promoting sustainability in the dairy sector.
- Investment in Cooperative Education: A significant allocation of Rs 300 crore has been made for cooperative education and capacity building at Tribhuvan Sahkari University in Anand. This investment is crucial for enhancing skills and knowledge within the cooperative framework.
- Dedicated Export Support: Through the National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), the budget provides Rs 450 crore in support, aimed at boosting dairy exports and integrating Indian products into global markets.
- Expansion of Veterinary Education and Services: A major push includes the introduction of a loan-linked capital subsidy scheme to establish veterinary and para-veterinary colleges. This initiative aims to add over 20,000 veterinary professionals nationwide, addressing critical shortages in rural areas and improving animal healthcare.
Significant Impact on Gujarat's Dairy Sector
The GCMMF emphasised the particular significance of these reforms for Gujarat's dairy cooperative sector. This sector collectively produces and markets nearly 10,000 metric tonnes of cattle feed daily, with an annual business turnover of approximately Rs 10,000 crore. The tax reforms are poised to streamline operations and enhance profitability for these cooperatives.
Furthermore, the enhanced logistics infrastructure will strengthen the integration of regional milk sheds into the national milk grid, ensuring better connectivity and reduced spoilage. The collaboration between Indian and foreign veterinary institutions, facilitated by the budget, will also improve education quality and bring global best practices to the forefront.
Empowering Rural Livelihoods and Sustainable Development
Overall, these initiatives are designed to empower millions of dairy farmers, strengthen the national milk grid, enhance rural incomes, and accelerate India's journey towards a self-reliant, sustainable, and globally competitive dairy economy. The GCMMF's endorsement underscores the potential of these measures to drive inclusive growth and development in the agricultural and cooperative sectors.
