Monday, March 18, 2019
Biography of Verghese Kurien:
Verghese Kurien (1921–2012) was an Indian social entrepreneur and the architect of the White Revolution in India, which transformed the country from a milk-deficient nation to one of the world's largest producers of milk and milk products. He is often referred to as the "Father of the White Revolution" and the "Milkman of India."
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| Verghese Kurien |
Here is an overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life and Education of Verghese Kurien:
Verghese Kurien was born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala, India. He completed his education in mechanical engineering from Loyola College in Madras (now Chennai) and later pursued a degree in dairy engineering from the Michigan State University in the United States, under a government scholarship.
Formation of Amul:
In 1949, Verghese Kurien was appointed by the Government of India to help establish a dairy cooperative in the town of Anand in the state of Gujarat. This cooperative, which later became known as Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited), aimed to empower local farmers by providing them with a fair price for their milk and ensuring the efficient processing and marketing of dairy products.
White Revolution of Verghese Kurien:
Verghese Kurien's most significant contribution was the White Revolution, a nationwide program to increase milk production and make India self-sufficient in milk. Under his leadership, Amul introduced several innovative practices, including cooperative dairy farming, the establishment of milk processing plants, and the creation of a successful marketing network.
The Operation Flood program, initiated in the 1970s, played a crucial role in the White Revolution. It focused on increasing milk production, promoting dairy cooperatives, and improving the socio-economic conditions of dairy farmers. India's milk production surged, transforming the country into the largest milk producer in the world.
National Dairy Development Board (NDDB):
Verghese Kurien played a pivotal role in the establishment of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in 1965, which became a central organization for implementing dairy development programs across the country. The success of the NDDB model contributed significantly to the growth of the dairy sector in India.
Recognition and Awards:
Verghese Kurien received numerous awards and honors for his contributions, including the Padma Shri in 1965, the Padma Bhushan in 1966, and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He was also awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1963 and the World Food Prize in 1989.
Later Years of Verghese Kurien:
After retiring from active service in 2006, Verghese Kurien continued to advocate for rural development and the welfare of farmers. He passed away on September 9, 2012, at the age of 90.
Legacy:
Verghese Kurien's legacy is deeply intertwined with the success of the White Revolution, which not only made India self-sufficient in milk but also empowered millions of dairy farmers. His cooperative model and innovative approach to dairy farming have been studied and emulated globally. Verghese Kurien's commitment to social and economic development through dairy cooperatives has left an enduring impact on India's agricultural landscape.