Dairy Cooperative Societies, Milk Producer Companies (MPCs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have been invited to apply for the National Gopal Ratna Awards 2026, which recognise outstanding contributions to India’s dairy sector.
The awards aim to encourage cooperatives and milk producer organisations to expand their operations, strengthen milk procurement and foster a competitive spirit among dairy institutions. Village-level Dairy Cooperative Societies, MPC milk pooling points and FPOs directly procuring milk from farmers are eligible, subject to prescribed membership and milk collection criteria.
A total of 12 awards will be presented across three categories, with four awards in each category.
The top three winners in the Best Dairy Cooperative/MPC/FPO category will receive Rs 5 lakh, Rs 3 lakh and Rs 2 lakh, respectively, along with a certificate and memento. A special Rs 2 lakh award will be given to eligible organisations from the North Eastern and Himalayan regions.
The names of awardees will be announced on November 25, with the award ceremony scheduled for National Milk Day on November 26, 2026.
The last date to apply is September 10, 2026.
