New Delhi: The tableau of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, was showcased during the 76th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi today. The theme of the tableau was “Honouring India’s Indigenous Cattle Breeds as Icons of Sustainable Rural Growth,” aligning with the 2025 Republic Day theme, “Golden India: Heritage and Development.” This participation holds significance as it marks the first time the ministry has taken part in the Republic Day Parade since its formation.
The tableau pays tribute to the ongoing and essential role of indigenous bovine breeds in India’s culture and economy. It highlights the country’s rich artistic heritage and the government’s commitment to using technology to promote prosperity for dairy farmers under White Revolution 2.0, showcasing the contribution of the livestock sector.
The front section of the DAHD’s tableau displayed a large can filled with milk, symbolising India’s position as the world’s largest milk producer. With a per capita milk availability of 471 grams per day in 2023-24, India far exceeds the global average of 329 grams, emphasising its vital contribution to global nutrition.
At the rear, the tableau featured a life-sized representation of Kamadhenu, symbolising the importance of indigenous cows in Indian society. The Pandharpuri buffalo, a prominent indigenous breed, was also showcased, underscoring the economic and cultural value of India’s native bovine species.
The tableau also celebrated the role of rural communities, particularly women, who play a significant part in dairy farming and cooperative activities, empowering households and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Additionally, the tableau highlighted digital innovations that support farmers with real-time livestock management, including the “Bharat Pashudhan” app, traditional ghee churning, and the universal vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), contributing towards an FMD-free India. Ghee traceability was prominently featured, showcasing the Bharat Pashudhan live database, which ensures comprehensive tracking of dairy products like ghee, adding value to farmers’ produce and increasing consumer trust in product quality.
India: Global Leader in Milk Production
The tableau’s front section elegantly highlights a continuous flow of milk, symbolizing India’s unassailable position as the No. 1 milk producing nation in the world.
This flowing stream embodies not just abundance but also the lifeline of… pic.twitter.com/aNHLEDlXdh— Dept of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Min of FAH&D (@Dept_of_AHD) January 26, 2025
Accompanying the tableau, men and women bikers from various states rode innovative Bio-CNG motorcycles for transporting milk. The ‘milko-bikes,’ equipped with milking machines, collect milk directly from animals and deliver it to collection centres or consumers.
Two audio-visual panels on the tableau showcased India’s indigenous breeds and advanced livestock technologies, capturing the DAHD’s tribute to the country’s vibrant cultural heritage while making rapid progress towards creating an innovative and sustainable future for the livestock sector. The background song, “Gau Maiyya Tujhe Pranam,” an ode to the revered cow, highlighted the profound significance of India’s cattle population.