ICAR-KVK, West Garo Hills celebrated “World Milk day” at its campus with village children. A total of 46 participants including 36 children and KVK staffs were present in the programme. World Milk Day is observed on 1st June in every year to celebrate the dairy industry and to recognize milk as a globally important food. The day is celebrated to create awareness regarding the importance of milk as a valuable food component. The main objective of World Milk Day is to generate consciousness of the importance of milk in an individual’s well-being. Milk is immensely valuable and primary to food security, nutrition, economic stability and development of each and every human being. On World Milk Day, all dimensions of milk and dairy are illuminated, particularly their nutritional and health benefits, availability and affordability, and the sector’s contribution and perseverance in nourishing our populations. This day was first observed and organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to help people recognize the importance of milk as a global food. This year the day is celebrated with the theme “celebrating the vital role dairy plays in delivering quality nutrition to nourish the world”.
        As it is known that milk is a rich source of several minerals and nutrients that are necessary for the body's proper functioning. It is rich in calcium and vitamin D. It also has high potassium content. With magnesium and a lot of folates, milk is a nutritious drink. Its consumption can help strengthen bones and lower the risks of heart diseases. A 250 mL glass of milk may offer 48 percent of a child's daily protein need, as well as 9 percent of calories. So, the celebration of milk day helps to convey the message about health benefits of milk to the society. In Garo Hills, milk is not preferred by the major portion of its population due to food habit of tribal people. Still, the demand for milk is increased day by day and many rural youths are now involved in dairy farming. KVK celebrated this time the world milk day with children from Sangsanggre village where KVK is situated. Dr. Tarun Kr Das, CTO, Agricultural Extension and Dr. Sagarika Borah, STO, Animal Science from KVK briefed the children about the benefits of drinking milk daily. Mr. Enalson Ch Momin, President, VEC, Sangsanggre village participated in the programme as special guest. He emphasized the children to drink milk daily to keep them healthy. So, he requested them to keep at least one cow at their houses. The programme was ended with light refreshment and one glass of milk produced in the KVK’s Dairy farm.