Women entrepreneurs are developing sustainable dairy farming in India

India is the world's leading milk producer, with women accounting for roughly 70% of the dairy industry workforce. At the same time, social norms influence livestock ownership, income control, and decision-making. As a result, women often lack land rights, work without pay, have less access to technology and advisory services, and suffer more severely from climate change and deteriorating milk quality.

To address these challenges, in 2024 EDF-India and Kumaraguru Institutions launched the Climate-Smart Dairy Entrepreneurship Programme in Tamil Nadu. The programme trains entrepreneurs in adopting sustainable practices. Among the participants is Shanthra Prakash, who established the Pariyur FPO women's producer organization. The association brings together over 400 members, helping them collectively market milk for better prices while training them in sustainable production methods. Shanthra also founded the Rural Dairy Mart, which supports 1,000 farmers by providing them with feed, equipment, and veterinary advice.

Another example is the mother and son duo Rajeswari and Arun Venkatesh, who founded the business Sarvva Smaart Tech Solutions LLP. Under this brand, they produce Sarvva Silage feed from sustainable corn for 650 farmers, which increases milk yield and reduces methane emissions per liter of milk. They have also developed lightweight silage bags to make the work easier for women, who typically handle livestock feeding.