It is two years since the first milkman of India passed away on September 9, 2012. Amul employees remembered him by organizing blood donation camp on this occasion. A versatile genius Varghese Kurien saw the vision of an empowered India through a revolution in the dairy cooperative movement.
In his last speech at the AGM Kurien had said “Our Member Unions are our strength. We thank them for their guidance, support and co-operation without which we would not exist”.
In his lifetime only Kurien could see his dreams taking shape. Dairy cooperatives began to spring up in large numbers in various parts of Gujarat. Farmers could be seen lining up the various milk cooperative union offices for payment and related works.
He was not happy with turns of events, though at the latter part of his life especially when he saw those whom he promoted, worked at cross-purposes.
A physicist from Michigan University Kurien was aiming at the empowerment of farmers.
Cooperative was his tool and he chose milk as the means. Farmers became producer-owner in the cooperative revolution that was unleashed by Kurien in the Gujarat villages transforming India into the largest producer of milk relegating the US to number two in the world.
Kurien’s vision continues to inspire people as the newly elected government has plans to carry forward his vision. The Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh recently called for speedy development of cooperative infrastructure as well as the restoration of ailing milk cooperative federations.
The Nabard would offer all possible technical assistance in realizing the potential of the cooperative dairy sector focusing on the Operation Flood locations, Mr. Singh noted.
Kurien on his part never forget to thank those who helped him in his venture. He often thanked the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat for their support and encouragement. He also thanked the officers and staff of GCMMF for their perseverance, loyalty and unflinching efforts devoted to our cause.
He is truly a Saint of Post Independent era of India!
Fortunately, we have able professionals at the helm of this movement today, like the current M.D. of GCMMF, Mr.R.S.Sodhi, who is equally dedicated towards the cause.