Best Dairy Farming Courses In India 2023

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Dairy farming is the practice of raising dairy animals for milk. Dairy farming is a major industry in many countries and provides food and income for millions of people. The process begins with breeding dairy animals, who are then raised on a diet of grass, hay, and grain. As the animals mature, they are milked regularly. The milk is then processed and stored, and it is eventually sold to consumers. Dairy farming is a complex and demanding industry that requires a deep understanding of animal husbandry, milk processing, and marketing.

In 2023, the dairy industry in India is witnessing a remarkable transformation, fueled by technological advancements and an increasing demand for high-quality dairy products. This shift has created an unprecedented opportunity for individuals aspiring to delve into the realm of dairy farming and make a meaningful contribution to this vital sector.

To keep pace with this evolving industry, a range of cutting-edge Dairy Farming Courses in India has emerged to equip enthusiasts with the expertise needed to thrive in the sector. Whether you are an aspiring dairy farmer, an agricultural professional seeking to diversify your expertise, an entrepreneur looking to invest in the dairy domain, or looking to start a career in horticulture these dairy farming courses offer a comprehensive understanding of modern dairy farming practices.

So, lets explore the diverse offerings of Dairy Farming Courses in India in 2023, and embark on a journey towards transforming passion into expertise and contributing to the ever-growing dairy industry.

Dairy Farming Courses In India 2023

Dairy Farming Courses In India

Here are some of the most popular dairy farm courses available in India in 2023:

  • Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Dairy Technology: This is a four-year undergraduate course that covers all aspects of dairy science and technology, from animal husbandry to milk processing.
  • Master of Technology (MTech) in Dairy Technology: This is a two-year postgraduate course that is designed for students who want to specialize in a particular area of dairy science or technology.
  • Diploma in Dairy Technology: This is a one-year diploma course that provides students with the basic skills and knowledge needed to work in the dairy industry.
  • Certificate in Dairy Technology: This is a short course that is designed for people who want to learn about dairy farming but do not want to commit to a full-time degree program.

In addition to these formal dairy farming courses, there are also many short dairy farming courses and workshops available that can teach you the basics of dairy farming. These dairy farming courses are often offered by dairy cooperatives, government agencies, and private organizations.

Online Dairy Farming Courses

Here are some of the best online dairy courses:

  • Dairy Production and Management on Coursera by Pennsylvania State University:  The Coursera review for “Dairy Production and Management” offered by Pennsylvania State University reveals an all-encompassing curriculum focusing on the fundamental aspects of dairy farming. This course covers the basics of dairy farming, including animal husbandry, dairy processing, and dairy product marketing. It is a self-paced course that can be completed in 8 weeks. 
  • Dairy Science on edX by University of Minnesota:  An edX review of the University of Minnesota’s Dairy Science course reveals that it offers an all-encompassing examination of the subject, covering animal nutrition to milk processing. The course adopts a flexible, self-paced learning approach, enabling participants to finish the program in just 12 weeks.
  • Dairy Farming on Udemy by Dairy Master: The “Dairy Farming” course on Udemy by Dairy Master is designed for beginners with little or no prior knowledge in dairy farming. It covers essential topics such as selecting livestock, animal feeding and management, and promoting dairy products. For those considering enrolling in this course, an insightful Udemy review might provide further valuable feedback and insights.
  • Dairy Farming for Profit on Alison: This course is designed for experienced dairy farmers who want to improve their profitability. It covers topics such as cost-saving strategies, marketing, and business planning.
  • Dairy Farming 101 on YouTube by Dairy Goats 101:  This course is a free video series that covers the basics of dairy farming. It is a great resource for beginners who want to learn about dairy farming without having to spend any money.

These are just a few of the many online dairy farming courses available. When choosing a course, it is important to consider your level of experience and your learning goals.

Dairy Farming Courses After 12th

There are many dairy farming courses available after 12th. Some of the most popular dairy courses include:

  • Diploma in Dairy Technology: This is a two-year diploma course that covers the basics of dairy farming, including animal husbandry, dairy processing, and dairy product marketing.
  • Bachelor of Dairy Technology (BDT): This is a three-year bachelor’s degree course that provides a more in-depth study of dairy farming.
  • Master of Dairy Technology (MDT): This is a two-year master’s degree course that is designed for students who want to pursue a career in dairy research or teaching.

In addition to these formal courses, there are also many short courses and training programs available that can help you learn the basics of dairy farming. These courses are a good option for people who want to start a dairy farm but don’t have the time or money to commit to a full-time degree program.

Here are some of the top institutes that offer dairy farming courses after 12th:

  • National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI): This is the premier dairy research institute in India. It offers a variety of courses in dairy technology, including diploma, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
  • Gujarat Dairy Development Corporation (GDDC): This is a government-run dairy corporation that offers a diploma in dairy technology.
  • National Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (NIAH&D): This is a government-run institute that offers a master’s degree in dairy science.
  • Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV): This is a private university that offers a bachelor’s degree in dairy technology.

The fees for dairy farming courses vary depending on the institute and the course. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from INR 10,000 to INR 50,000 per year for a diploma or bachelor’s degree course.

Dairy Production Course

There are many dairy production courses available online and in person. Some of the most popular courses include:

  • Dairy Production and Management: This course covers the fundamentals of dairy production, including animal care, feeding, breeding, and milking.
  • Dairy Processing Technology: This course covers the principles and practices of dairy processing, including milk pasteurization, cheesemaking, and yogurt production.
  • Dairy Quality Assurance: This course covers the importance of quality assurance in the dairy industry, including milk testing, food safety, and HACCP.
  • Dairy Business Management: This course covers the business aspects of dairy farming, including marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

The best dairy production course for you will depend on your career goals and interests. If you are interested in working on a dairy farm, then a course in dairy production and management would be a good choice. If you are interested in working in a dairy processing plant, then a course in dairy processing technology would be a good choice. And if you are interested in starting your own dairy business, then a course in dairy business management would be a good choice.

Dairy Farming Colleges In India

College Course Address Contact No. Fees
Anand Agricultural University (AAU)
BTech in Dairy Technology
Anand, Gujarat
+91 79 2325 2000
INR 20,000-30,000 per year
Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology (CSAUAT)
BTech in Dairy Technology
Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
+91 512 223 7500
INR 15,000-25,000 per year
National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI)
BTech in Dairy Technology
Karnal, Haryana
+91 184 222 3100
INR 10,000-20,000 per year
Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHIATS)
BTech in Dairy Technology
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
+91 532 222 3200
INR 15,000-25,000 per year
The Gandhigram Rural Institute
Diploma in Dairy Technology
Gandhigram, Tamil Nadu
+91 4222 223 666
INR 10,000-15,000 per year
Kurukshetra University
MTech in Dairy Engineering
Kurukshetra, Haryana
+91 176 223 3000
INR 20,000-30,000 per year
Banaras Hindu University
MTech in Dairy Engineering
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
+91 542 250 0281
INR 25,000-35,000 per year
West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences
MTech in Dairy Engineering
Kolkata, West Bengal
+91 33 2533 2660
INR 20,000-30,000 per year

Dairy Farming Institutes In India

College Course Address Contact No. Fees
National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI)
M.Sc. Dairy Science
Karnal, Haryana
0184-2221574
INR 40,000/year
Gujarat Dairy Development Corporation (GDDC)
Diploma in Dairy Technology
Anand, Gujarat
02692-239231
INR 25,000/year
National Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (NIAH&D)
M.Sc. Dairy Science
Bangalore, Karnataka
080-25526555
INR 30,000/year
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST)
M.Sc. Dairy Science
Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
0191-2452622
INR 35,000/year
Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV)
M.Sc. Dairy Science
Aurangabad, Maharashtra
0240-2335237
INR 25,000/year

Dairy Industry Careers In India

The dairy industry in India is a large and growing sector, offering a wide range of career opportunities. Here are some of the most popular dairy industry careers in India:

  • Dairy farmer: Dairy farmers are responsible for raising and milking dairy animals. They also need to be familiar with dairy farming practices, such as feed and fodder management, animal health care, and milk production.
  • Dairy technician: Dairy technicians work in dairy processing plants. They are responsible for operating and maintaining dairy equipment, as well as conducting quality control tests on dairy products.
  • Dairy technologist: Dairy technologists are responsible for developing new dairy products and processes. They also need to have a strong understanding of dairy science and technology.
  • Dairy marketing manager: Dairy marketing managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing plans for dairy products. They need to have a good understanding of the dairy industry and the consumer market.
  • Dairy sales representative: Dairy sales representatives are responsible for selling dairy products to retailers and consumers. They need to be able to build relationships with customers and understand their needs.

Dairy Farming Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate course applicants require a minimum 10+2 Science with Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Biology and English and with a minimum aggregate of 55 %. Selection is on the basis of an All India Entrance Examination.

The B.Sc/ B.Tech (Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry) are four year program after 10+2; the Dairy Diploma course of two years duration is for lower level technical positions.

After graduating in dairying, candidates can opt for further studies and specialization through a Master program in Dairying, or related areas such as genetics and breeding, livestock production, animal biotechnology, food technology, and preservation.

Dairy Farming Career Prospects

The two main areas of activity in the Dairy Industry include:

a) Production, which begins with the most important task of all, i.e. obtaining milk, and also the breeding of high yielding cattle and taking care of the animals. Veterinary Scientists are usually best suited for such jobs.

They are appointed as Procurement Officers and have to visit villages in order talk to farmers and influence them to sell their milk. Dairy scientists conduct experiments to determine the effects of different kinds of feeds and environmental conditions on the quantity, quality and nutritive value of milk produced. They also conduct research in areas of breeding, feeding and management of dairy cattle.

b) Processing involves handling milk for distribution, its conversion into dairy products. This work normally begins after the milk has reached the plant. Here, milk is converted into a variety of dairy products, such as cheese, chocolates, ice cream, butter ghee and so on.

Dairy Technologists and management careers deal with this aspect of the industry, and also work to further develop improved methods in production, preservation and utilisation of milk, and milk products.

Dairy farming also engages services of dairy engineers, who are responsible for the setting up and maintenance of dairy plants and related activities; and marketing personnel who handle the marketing and sales of milk and milk products.

 

Read More: Careers in Rural Management

Employment Opportunities in Dairy Farming

Employment opportunities exist in both government and private sectors. The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), a multi-locational organisation involved in planning, implementing, financing and supporting farmer-owned professional agri-business enterprises is the core PSU in this field. However, with almost every state aping Amul’s ‘cooperative’ success, employment opportunities have increased manifold for technologists and managers, both in production and marketing.

With the entry of multinational giants like Nestle, Cadburys, Britannia, Kellogg’s, Heritage Foods, KFC, HLL, etc. into the Indian market, employment opportunities as well as salaries have received a further boost.

Traditional Indian market leaders like Mother Dairy, Indana, Milkfood, Amul, Dalmia, Dabur, Cadburys, Vadilal, Parag, Vijaya and Milkfed (Verka) are also modernising and diversifying their operations and exploring non-traditional channels to boost demand.

For young individuals looking at a career away from the hurly-burly of urban life, dairy farming could be one of the most attractive choices available.

Dairy Farming Specialisations

Dairy farming colleges offer both degree and diploma dairy farming courses in India, covering technology and management. Admissions into the four year courses are largely merit-based; and some courses might last only two and a half years. Post graduation, a Master’s degree course can be pursued in related agricultural fields, veterinary science, engineering and food tech. You must clear the entrance exam for admission into these courses as well.

The specialisations cover:

  • Dairy technology
  • Dairy chemistry
  • Dairy microbiology
  • Dairy engineering
  • Dairy extension education
  • Food technology
  • Genetics and breeding
  • Dairy quality control
  • Animal biotechnology
  • Livestock production and management
  • Dairy production

FAQS

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the educational requirements for dairy farmers vary depending on the size and type of farm, as well as the individual farmer’s goals. However, some common educational paths for dairy farmers include:

  • High school diploma: A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for most dairy farmers. This will provide you with the basic knowledge of math, science, and animal husbandry that you need to be successful in the dairy industry.
  • Associate’s degree in dairy science or animal science: An associate’s degree in dairy science or animal science can provide you with more in-depth knowledge of dairy production and management. This can be a valuable asset if you are planning to start your own dairy farm or work in a management position on a larger farm.
  • Bachelor’s degree in dairy science or animal science: A bachelor’s degree in dairy science or animal science can provide you with the most comprehensive education in dairy production and management. This can be a valuable asset if you are planning to pursue a career in research, teaching, or extension work in the dairy industry.

M.Sc. Dairy Science: This is a postgraduate Agriculture Science and Technology course. This course covers, animal health and livestock, dairy farming and milking, dairy technology, plant maintenance, dairy products, and services.

In contrast to the ICMR’s recommended minimum of 250 grammes per day, its per capita availability at this production was to be 226 grammes per day. Therefore, there is a great scope and possibility in dairy farming to increase milk production.

The best indigenous dairy breed in the country is Sahiwal. Sahiwal milk yields between 1400 and 2500 kilograms per lactation on average. Many parts of India, including Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, have it.

USA. The country is at number one in cows’ milk production, as in India a significant portion of milk production comes from buffaloes. Many of the larger dairy farms in the US have more than 15,000 cows each.

The Indian Animal Husbandry and Dairy industry is vital to the growth of the rural economy. A revival in economic activities, increasing per capita consumption of milk and milk products, changing dietary preferences and rising urbanization in India, has driven the dairy industry alone to grow by 9-11% in 2021-22

In developed countries, dairy farms typically consist of high producing dairy cows. Other species used in commercial dairy farming include goats, sheep, water buffaloes, and camels. In Italy, donkey dairies are growing in popularity to produce an alternative milk source for human infants.

The ideal temperature range for dairy cattle is between 25 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the temperature goes above 80 degrees Fahrenheit cattle reduce feed intake, which has a negative impact on production.

The highest-paying job at India Dairy Products is a Dairy Technologist with a salary of ₹20.8 Lakhs per year. The top 10% of employees earn more than ₹6.80 lakhs per year. The top 1% earn more than a whopping ₹42.50 lakhs per year.
 

Recent studies suggest that an amount of anywhere between ₹10 – ₹20 Lakhs is needed to start a small-scale dairy farm in India. The amount of money which will be required to start a large-scale farm, on the other hand, can easily go over ₹1 Crore.

Article Updates:

26/07/2023: General Update

26/07/2023: Interlinking

26/07/2023: FAQS Update

26/07/2023: Infographic Update