Nestled between the vibrant urban centers of Ahmedabad and Baroda in the state of Gujarat, India, lies the serene town of Anand, renowned as the “Milk City of India.” This charming city boasts a distinct identity deeply rooted in its profound association with dairy farming and a transformative milk revolution. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the rich tapestry of Anand, the epicenter of India’s dairy industry.
The accolade of “Milk City of India” is not bestowed upon Anand by chance. It owes this distinction to a remarkable dairy revolution pioneered by three extraordinary individuals: Tribhuvandas Patel, Verghese Kurien, and H.M. Dalaya. Together, they ignited a movement that revolutionized milk production and distribution across the nation.
At the core of Anand’s dairy renaissance stands the iconic Amul Dairy. “Amul,” an acronym for “Anand Milk Union Limited,” represents a cooperative venture that united local farmers. Together, they engineered an innovative milk processing system that not only ensured equitable prices for farmers but also delivered top-quality milk to consumers.
However, Anand is not solely defined by its milk legacy; it is also a hub of education and agriculture. Home to prestigious institutions such as the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) and Anand Agricultural University, the city plays a pivotal role in imparting knowledge and skills in rural development and agriculture, contributing significantly to the region’s progress.
Anand holds the distinction of being the administrative center of Anand District in Gujarat, under the governance of Anand Municipality. It is a prominent part of the Charotar region, encompassing Anand and Kheda districts.
According to the 2011 census, Anand boasts a population of approximately 635,000 residents, characterized by a higher-than-average literacy rate. The city’s populace represents a diverse tapestry of religious backgrounds, with Hinduism serving as the predominant faith.
Strategically positioned between Ahmedabad and Vadodara, Anand enjoys excellent connectivity via road and rail networks. It serves as a crucial railway junction with a well-established transportation grid. Moreover, the Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway traverses Anand, ensuring accessibility from major urban centers.
The economy of Anand is multifaceted, encompassing a spectrum from agriculture to large-scale industries. The region cultivates major crops like tobacco and bananas, while also serving as the home of renowned dairy brands such as Amul and Vidya Dairy. Additionally, Anand boasts a thriving industrial sector, featuring companies like Elecon Engineering and HLE Glasscoat Ltd., contributing to the city’s economic vitality and diversity.