The increase in the income level of an average Indian is being accompanied by a change in the food basket, as the monthly per capita consumption expenditure on milk and milk products in both rural and urban areas has grown significantly at about 92 per cent and 72 per cent respectively.

Maharashtra has acquired the highest share of about 19 per cent in terms of direct employment being generated in registered dairy units, though the state has ranked second with a share of about 17 per cent in 1,493 dairy factories across India, an Assocham study has shown.

"With dairy output worth over Rs 9 lakh, Maharashtra ranks second after Gujarat, with a share of about 16 per cent in total dairy output worth over Rs 60 lakh, according to the government led annual survey of industries 2010-11,'' noted the study 'Unlocking Growth of Potential of Indian Dairy Industry', conducted by The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham).

However, in terms of milk production, Maharashtra is ranked sixth with about seven per cent share across India in total milk production, of over 120 million tonnes. Maharashtra has also registered a growth rate of about 15 per cent in milk production, which is below the all India growth rate of about 19 per cent, highlighted the study.

In terms of per capita milk availability, Maharashtra ranked 14th and the state clocked a growth rate of about nine per cent, which is again below the all India growth rate of 12 per cent.

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