Whenever India is cited as a model of self-sufficiency in agriculture and dairy, one name immediately springs to mind – Dr. Verghese Kurien. He was not only the father of the 'White Revolution' but also laid the foundation for a b cooperative movement that economically empowered rural India. His life exemplifies struggle, vision, and dedication to the nation. Let's explore how a simple engineer transformed India into the world's largest milk producer.
Beginnings: A Turning Point
Dr. Verghese Kurien was born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala (then Madras Presidency), into a Syrian Christian family. He pursued studies in physics and mechanical engineering, earning a master's degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University before returning to India. He was appointed to a government creamery in Anand, Gujarat. But this was more than just a job – it marked the beginning of a transformation for Indian villagers.
Dr. Kurien's Choice: The Path of Farmers
Upon returning to India, Dr. Kurien met Tribhuvandas Patel, who was organizing farmers in Kheda district to run a milk cooperative. Dr. Kurien resolved to take this small movement to a national level. This is where 'Amul' was born – India's most successful dairy brand. He not only taught them how to sell milk but also ensured farmers received the full value of their hard work.
Amul: Not Just a Name, a Movement
Beginning in 1946, the Amul movement is not just a cooperative; it's a living example of rural empowerment. Dr. Kurien not only united farmers but also empowered them with technological and scientific resources. He developed a technique for producing milk powder from buffalo milk, a unique innovation worldwide. This enabled India, once reliant on foreign imports for milk, to achieve self-sufficiency in milk production within a few years.
Operation Flood: The 'Billion Liter Idea' Begins
In 1970, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) was established, with Dr. Kurien appointed as its founding chairman. This marked the beginning of 'Operation Flood' – or the 'White Revolution'. This initiative strengthened the milk supply chain, reaching into villages and ensuring milk availability in cities. This not only increased milk production but also revitalized the rural economy.
A Cascade of Honors and Awards
Dr. Kurien received numerous awards nationally and internationally. He was awarded India's highest civilian honors: the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan. He also received international recognition, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award, the World Food Prize, and the Wateler Peace Prize. But his greatest reward was the smiles of millions of farmers.
'The Man Who Made the Elephant Dance': Life Lessons in His Autobiography
Dr. Kurien documented his life experiences in his autobiography, 'I Too Had a Dream'. This book is not just a story of an individual's success; it shows how a person, through honesty and vision, can change the direction of an entire nation.
An Invaluable Contribution to Popular Culture
Shyam Benegal's film 'Manthan' was based on Dr. Kurien's life and movement. Notably, 500,000 farmers contributed ₹2 each to fund this film, making it the world's first farmer-funded movie. The film won national awards and brought the concept of cooperation to the masses.
A Legacy That Remains Vibrant
Dr. Kurien passed away on September 9, 2012, but the institutions he created – Amul, NDDB, IRMA – continue to empower millions of farmers. He taught that development should not be confined to cities but should extend to villages. His life inspires us that with honesty in thought and public welfare as the goal, no task is impossible.
Verghese Kurien made India self-sufficient in milk, but his greatest contribution was giving farmers confidence, empowering them, and forging a new India. Today, when we drink Amul milk every morning, we are partaking in the dream of an extraordinary individual – a dream he transformed into reality.
