Amul: A Revolutionary Journey
Initial Situation
- Amul is more than a brand, it's a part of Indian life.
- An economic lifeline for over 3.6 million farmers.
- Farmers were distressed by exploitation from the Polson company.
Beginning of the Revolution
- The revolution began in the 1940s in Anand village, Gujarat.
- Farmer exploitation increased under the British government's Bombay Milk Scheme.
- Farmers didn't have any other option to sell milk.
Cooperative Model
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel suggested the cooperative committee.
- Leadership was entrusted to Morarji Desai.
- In 1946, farmers went on strike and formed their own cooperative union.
Establishment of Amul
- Kaira District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Limited was established.
- By 1948, 432 farmers were supplying 5,000 liters of milk daily.
Role of Dr. Verghese Kurien
- Dr. Kurien arrived for technical solutions.
- Developed the technology to produce milk powder from buffalo milk.
- In 1955, Asia's largest milk plant was established.
Identity of the Amul Brand
- The name "Amul" is derived from the abbreviation of "Anand Milk Union Limited."
- Contribution of the Amul Girl and advertisements to brand identity.
Expansion and Challenges
- Expansion of Amul's product portfolio in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Strong measures to tackle counterfeit products.
- Achieved a turnover of 2 billion dollars in 2010-11.
COVID-19 and Current Situation
- During the pandemic, Amul increased its revenue.
- Currently maintains direct contact with 3.6 million farmers.
Conclusion
- Amul is a story of the struggle and hard work of farmers.
- Represents a revolutionary change in the Indian dairy industry.
Amul's story is an exemplary illustration of how a cooperative model not only transformed the lives of farmers but also changed the face of the nation's dairy industry.