National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)

The correct answer is option 'B', the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). It was formed in 1965 under the leadership of Varghese Kurien, a renowned social entrepreneur and the father of the White Revolution in India.

Background
Before the establishment of the NDDB, India faced several challenges in the dairy sector. Lack of modern infrastructure, limited access to credit, and exploitation of farmers by middlemen were prevalent issues. Varghese Kurien recognized the potential of the cooperative model in transforming the dairy industry and sought to replicate the success of the Anand model in other parts of India.

Role and Objectives
The NDDB was set up with the aim of promoting, planning, and organizing dairy development in the country. Its key objectives include:

1. Enhancing milk production and productivity: The NDDB focuses on increasing milk production through various initiatives, such as breed improvement, animal healthcare, and nutrition management.

2. Strengthening cooperative institutions: The board works towards organizing and supporting dairy cooperatives across the country. It provides technical assistance, training, and financial support to these cooperative societies.

3. Promoting dairy processing and marketing: The NDDB plays a crucial role in establishing dairy processing plants and facilitating market linkages for milk producers. It ensures fair and remunerative prices for farmers by eliminating middlemen and facilitating direct procurement by cooperatives.

4. Research and development: The NDDB conducts research and development activities to improve dairy farming practices, enhance milk quality, and develop innovative dairy products. It also collaborates with national and international research institutes to gain expertise and leverage technological advancements.

Impact and Achievements
Under the leadership of Varghese Kurien, the NDDB revolutionized the dairy sector in India. The cooperative model implemented by the board empowered small-scale dairy farmers and ensured their fair share of the profits. Key achievements of the NDDB include:

1. Operation Flood: The NDDB spearheaded the Operation Flood program, which transformed India from a milk-deficient nation to the world's largest milk producer. This program involved the establishment of dairy cooperatives, creation of milk collection and processing infrastructure, and implementation of innovative marketing strategies.

2. Formation of Amul: The NDDB played a pivotal role in the formation and success of Amul, one of India's most renowned dairy brands. It supported the cooperative movement in Anand, Gujarat, which led to the creation of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) and the popularization of the Amul brand.

3. Replication of the cooperative model: The NDDB successfully replicated the Anand model in other parts of India, leading to the establishment of numerous dairy cooperatives across the country. This resulted in increased milk production, improved livelihoods of farmers, and reduced dependence on imports.

In conclusion, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) was formed in 1965 under the leadership of Varghese Kurien to replicate the success of cooperatives in other parts of India. The board played a pivotal role in transforming the dairy sector through its focus on increasing milk production, strengthening cooperative institutions, promoting dairy processing and marketing, and conducting research and development activities. The NDDB's impact and achievements, including the Operation Flood program and the formation of Amul, have revolutionized the dairy industry in India.

In 1965, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) was formed under the leadership of Varghese Kurien to replicate the success of cooperatives in other parts of India.