Dudhsagar Dairy
Mehsana District Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union Ltd.
Dr. Verghese Kurien
The Father of the White Revolution
📍 Born: 26 November 1921, Kozhikode, Kerala, India.
Introduction
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Known as the “Milkman from Anand”, Dr. Kurien transformed India’s dairy sector.
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His life-long mission was empowerment of small and marginal farmers and landless labourers.
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The White Revolution was not just about milk — it was about using milk as a medium to empower millions of farmers socially, politically, and economically.
Vision & Leadership
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Introduced the Amul-model dairy cooperatives (Anand pattern).
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Believed: “He was not in the business of milk, but in the business of empowerment.”
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Recognized by many titles:
1. The Milkman from Anand
2. Father of the White Revolution
3. White Knight
Institution Builder
Founder-Chairman of world-class organizations:
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NDDB (National Dairy Development Board)
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GCMMF (Amul)
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Known for unmatched wisdom, simplicity, and strong administrative skills.
Held high positions in government & institutions:
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Chairman of GEB
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Vice Chancellor of GAU
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Director, LIC & IDBI
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Director, Bank of Baroda
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Board member of RBI
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Chancellor, Allahabad Central University
Cultural Contributions
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Closely associated with acclaimed films: “Manthan” and “Sardar”.
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His management style became case studies at leading institutes worldwide.
Awards & Honors
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National Awards: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan.
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International Awards:
1. World Food Prize (1989)
2. Carnegie Foundation’s Wateler Peace Prize (1986)
3. International Person of the Year (World Dairy Expo, 1993)
4. Ordre du Mérite Agricole – France (1997)
5. Asian Productivity Award – Japan (2000) -
Received 15 Honorary Doctorates and 10+ Fellowships from leading global institutions.
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Only major award he never received: Bharat Ratna.
Legacy
“Why ask me, ask those who give it”
– Dr. Kurien, when asked about the Bharat Ratna.
Dr. Kurien’s life remains a testament to how vision, integrity, and empowerment can transform a nation.