World Milk Day observed around the globe

World Milk Day was observed across the world on 1 June 2016. It is observed to increase awareness on milk and to publicise activities connected with milk and the milk industry.

It also seeks to inform people about usefulness of milk and milk products, its nutritional value and economic importance.

The observance of the day was initiated in 2001 by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). FAO actively encourages milk and dairy consumption as part of a daily diet.

India celebrates National Milk Day on 26 November in memory of Dr Verghese Kurien, Father of India's White Revolution. The first National Milk Day was observed on 14 November 2014.

Why 1 June?
This date was chosen because a number of countries were already celebrating a national milk day on or around this time. Late May was originally proposed, but some countries, for example China, felt they already had too many celebrations in that month. While most countries hold their celebrations on 1 June, some choose to hold them a week or so before or after this date.