National Milk Day

What is National Milk Day?
National Milk Day is an annual celebration dedicated to recognizing the importance of milk in our lives. It highlights milk’s role in nutrition, agriculture, and its economic significance. The day also honors individuals and initiatives that have revolutionized the dairy industry.

Quick Facts

When is it?: January 11 (U.S.), November 26 (India)
Tagged as: A tribute to milk’s nutritional value and its role in the dairy sector
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalMilkDay
When was it founded?: Around 1915 (U.S.), 2014 (India)
Who founded it?: Likely tied to the dairy industry in the U.S.; Ministry of Animal Husbandry in India for Dr. Verghese Kurien

History of National Milk Day

In the U.S., National Milk Day commemorates the first delivery of milk in sterilized glass bottles in 1878, a milestone that transformed milk distribution. In India, it honors Dr. Verghese Kurien, the “Father of the White Revolution,” whose efforts made India the largest global producer of milk. His Operation Flood program modernized India’s dairy sector and empowered rural farmers.

Timeline

8000 B.C.: Wild cows (aurochs) roam Europe, Asia, and Africa.
1878: First sterilized glass bottle delivery of milk in the U.S.
1970: Operation Flood launched in India, revolutionizing milk production.
1998: India becomes the largest global milk producer.
2014: India officially establishes National Milk Day on November 26.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	January 11	Saturday
2026	January 11	Sunday
2027	January 11	Monday
2028	January 11	Tuesday
2029	January 11	Thursday
2030	January 11	Friday

Observed

National Milk Day is observed through activities like hosting milk-tasting events, creating awareness about dairy benefits, and honoring contributions to the dairy sector.

Fun Facts About Milk

Milk contains nine essential nutrients that support human health.
India produces over 25% of the world’s total milk supply.
The first Dairy Queen store opened in Illinois in 1940.

Quiz

Who is known as the “Father of the White Revolution”?
When was Operation Flood launched?
Which country is the largest producer of milk?

(Answers: 1. Dr. Verghese Kurien, 2. 1970, 3. India)

FAQs

Q1: What is National Milk Day?
A1: It’s a day dedicated to celebrating milk’s importance in nutrition and agriculture while honoring contributions to the dairy industry.

Q2: Why are there two National Milk Days?
A2: The U.S. observes it on January 11 for historical reasons, while India celebrates it on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien.

Q3: How can I celebrate National Milk Day?
A3: Host a milk-tasting event, create awareness about its health benefits, or try new recipes featuring milk.

Importance of National Milk Day

National Milk Day underscores milk’s role as a vital source of nutrition and its impact on economies worldwide. It also highlights technological advancements in dairy farming and honors those who have contributed to this essential industry.