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NDTV
2 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
World Milk Day 2025: Untold Benefits Of Milk We All Should Know
Each year on June 1, people around the world celebrate World Milk Day, a global initiative established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to highlight the importance of milk in our daily diets and honour the contributions of the dairy sector to nutrition, livelihoods, and food security. India, as the world's largest milk producer, plays a vital role in this celebration. While most of us are familiar with the basic health benefits of milk- strong bones, good calcium content, and rich protein levels- there are many untold and lesser-known advantages that deserve attention. Milk: More Than Just a Calcium Booster Milk is a widely consumed superfood in Indian households. While buffalo milk is most commonly used, other types like cow, goat, and even camel milk are also part of many diets. Beyond drinking it plain, people enjoy milk in forms like curd, paneer, cheese, butter, flavoured milk, and ice cream. But did you know that milk's benefits go far beyond what meets the eye? Let's uncover five untold benefits of milk you may not know about, supported by expert insights from Rupali Datta, Consultant Nutritionist. Milk is full of various nutrients. Lesser-Known Benefits Of Milk 1. Natural Stress Reliever and Sleep Booster According to Dr. Rupali Datta, milk contains Tryptophan, an essential amino acid that promotes the production of melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone. This helps improve sleep cycles, reduce fatigue, and keep us mentally and physically refreshed. "Milk not only helps us relax but also boosts serotonin levels, which improve mood and help reduce stress," she explains. 2. Supports Digestive Health and Reduces Acidity Drinking a glass of cold milk can help neutralise stomach acid and is an effective home remedy for acidity. It soothes the stomach lining and prevents discomfort after spicy meals. Those who aren't sensitive to cold can even enjoy a scoop of ice cream for similar relief. Also Read: What Is The Best Time To Drink Milk According To Ayurveda? 3. Hydrating and Nourishing Though it feels rich and creamy, milk is actually mostly water. The creamy texture comes from its combination of proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates. This makes milk both nourishing and hydrating, especially beneficial during warmer months or for those with increased fluid needs. 4. Aiding Fat Loss with Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Milk and other dairy products contain Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), a naturally occurring fatty acid that may help reduce body fat and support lean muscle development. Some studies suggest that CLA can also aid in improving metabolic function when combined with regular exercise. 5. A Versatile Health Food If you're lactose-intolerant or exploring plant-based diets, soya milk offers a worthy alternative. Fortified soya milk contains fewer calories, less sugar, and lower saturated fat compared to traditional cow milk, making it ideal for those monitoring their weight or heart health. You can even boost nutrition by mixing soya powder into regular milk for added protein and fibre. How Much Milk is Enough? Rupali Datta recommends 500-600 ml of milk per day for an average adult. This amount helps meet daily calcium and protein needs, supports gut health, and reduces the risk of gastric issues. On this World Milk Day 2025, let's go beyond the basics and appreciate milk for its many hidden benefits. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, in your tea or as curd, milk continues to be a time-tested elixir of health. Its versatility and nutrient profile make it a daily dietary must-have, no matter your age or lifestyle. So raise a glass to milk today- and every day!
Scoop
8 hours ago
- Business
- Scoop
Cultivating A Brighter Future In Maka: A Story Of Resilience And Revitalization In West Sepik, Papua New Guinea
Press Release – EU STREIT PNG Once struggling with low agricultural productivity and limited market access, an isolated rural community in West Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea has been transformed into a centre for valuable commodity production, thanks to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. This shift is not only enhancing the villagers' living conditions but also paving the way for growth and prosperity of future generations. Vanimo, Papua New Guinea – In the remote stretches of Vanimo Green River, West Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea, the Maka community lived for years with a very limited agricultural commodity production. Rugged terrain and poorly maintained roads coupled with lack of any established market in the region also heavily impacted the daily life and livelihood leading to a state of seclusion. Basic amenities like education, healthcare, and transportation were often out of reach which left local families to face constant hardship. Generations grew up with these challenges, with little hope of unlocking their community's potential. Joseph, the Chairman of the Fugumi Cocoa Business Group, recalls those difficult times: 'We wanted to start a business but had less opportunity to sell our produce,' which was of low volume and quality. Referring to challenge they face due to lack of income, he adds, 'finding school fees was difficult [for us], and even [nutritious, protein-rich] food was hard to afford.' His words highlight the struggle in Maka, a place where promising crops, such as cocoa and vanilla, were lost due to low productivity, and infestation. Even if there were the quality products, they were suffered from the absence of accessible markets. For many, this isolation was equal to missed opportunities for economic progress. For Damia, the spouse of Joseph, life had been equally challenging. Interrupted by illness during her early schooling: 'I became very sick and had to leave school in Grade 5', because they had not enough money for treatment. She experienced firsthand the long-term impact of an education cut short. Now, every morning as she feeds their fish at the family ponds, she reminds her children of the importance of seizing every opportunity: 'I tell my children, 'You must do well to have a good future.'' Her determined voice, tempered by past hardships, fuels the hope that her children will break free of the limitations that once defined her lives. A Transformative Partnership Change began with the arrival of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, an initiative aimed at reviving key agricultural value chains such as cocoa, fisheries, and vanilla. Funded by the European Union and implemented by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP, the Programme is designed to improve these sectors by addressing gaps from production to market. The Programme provided vital technical training, agricultural inputs, and cocoa value chain support that had long been unaffordable or inaccessible to the villagers. Maka's farmers gained access to pest-tolerant seedlings, polybags, shed cloth, essential farming tools, nursery materials, and fermentary kits, alongside training in cocoa budding, block management, harvesting, post-harvesting as well as business development and management. Through this support, 40 farmers from the community were enabled to plant 4,033 pest-tolerant cloned cocoa seedlings, which transformed their rundown block fields into productive plots. These resources were more than just physical tools, they symbolized a renewed hope. Reflecting on support received, Joseph recalls, 'When I saw these things, I was very happy.' Building on the Programme's agricultural initiatives in cocoa, support was also extended to aquaculture within the community. In June 2024, the Programme supported Joseph and Damia to stock 400 fingerlings in their only fishpond, initiating aquaculture freshwater fish farming. Within 6–7 months, the fish matured quickly, leading to a high fingerling production rate, allowing the family to expand their fishpond from one to three, and to distribute 50–100 fingerlings to cluster groups and individuals in surrounding area. This expansion, driven by Programme intervention, is strengthening fish farming in Maka, increasing profitability and nutrition for involved households. This blend of expertise and resources empowered Maka's farmers to adopt sustainable, climate-smart practices, setting them on a path toward long-term prosperity. Revitalizing Production and Market Access One of the Programme's greatest achievements was restoring market access for Maka's agricultural produce. Previously, isolation and lack of reliable trading point meant that even the best harvests were left to perish in the fields with no buyer. With the EU-STREIT PNG support, a Cocoa Trade and Depot Facility was constructed and established in Vanimo, the provincial capital, serving as a robust outlet for local produce. Trucks now make regular trips from Vanimo to Maka, transporting much-needed supplies and returning with cocoa beans. The arrival of these trucks has brought great relief and confidence to the villagers. Damia smiles with gratitude: 'Trucks finally reach our village. They help us sell cocoa, and I am happy.' This improved cocoa market infrastructure has not only revitalized the local economy but also inspired farmers to venture in better pot-harvest processing. Supported by the Programme, they constructed a cocoa fermentary in Maka, so that beans can be processed on-site and fetch higher market prices. Empowering Families Through Self-Reliance Beyond the tangible economic benefits, the Programme's impact is deeply personal. For Damia and Joseph, the changes go hand in hand with a renewed sense of independence. Every day, Damia tends to their fishponds with unwavering commitment, a task that often requires her to wake before dawn and go into the bush to secure extra nourishment for the fish. 'No one helps me, only my husband and I,' she says, capturing the spirit of self-reliance that now defines their daily life. This newfound independence plays a crucial role in shaping their future. Damia is determined to ensure her children, who attend schools in both Maka and Vanimo, have educational opportunities she never had. Meanwhile, Joseph dreams of a future where his children can break free of the legacy of missed opportunities. 'I dream of my children achieving their goals,' he confesses. Toward a Brighter Future Today, Maka is well on its way to emerging from its long history of seclusion. The the adoption of efficient agricultural techniques coupled with the restoration of market linkages have set the stage for sustainable development. As Damia reflects on the journey, her gratitude is evident: 'Thank you for everything, thank you for the fish and cocoa you provided, and thank you for all the support. We now have these things, and we feel very happy.' Her heartfelt words echo the sentiment of a community poised for change. Together, Joseph, Damia, and their neighbours are not only rewriting the story of Maka—they are forging a collective path toward a future defined by resilience, cooperation, and hope. Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability Sustainability is at the heart of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme's vision for lasting change. While the Programme rehabilitated a cocoa nursery to support local farmers in Maka to revitalize their cocoa blocks, long-term success depends on continued government ownership and investment. Recognizing this, the Cocoa Board of Papua New Guinea has now stepped in to oversee and support the nursery, ensuring its continued operation and benefit to the community. In parallel, the Cocoa Tarde and Depot Facility is handed over to be run by West Sepik Investment Limited, the business arm of the Provincial Government. The This transition reflects the Programme's core objective which is empowering institutions to take ownership so that these advancements endure beyond Programme interventions, and to foster a sustainable cocoa business in for Maka. A Flagship under the EU's Global Gateway EU-STREIT PNG contributes to the EU's Global Gateway Strategy by driving rural transformation through climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable infrastructure, and digital innovation. As the first articulation of the Strategy in Papua New Guinea, the Programme enhances market access for remote farmers by improving transport links, expanding digital tools for real-time farming advice and weather alerts, and promoting clean energy use. These 'smart, clean, and secure' solutions reduce transaction costs, boost productivity, and strengthen food security and incomes, delivering tangible impact in line with the EU's global development vision. About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by FAO's support in enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and digital financial services by UNCDF. ILO also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient roads and other transport infrastructures while UNDP provides renewable energy solutions. The Programme directly benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.
Scoop
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Scoop
FAO Presents Credentials To Tonga's PM, Reaffirms Commitment To Agricultural & Fisheries Development
Press Release – UN FAO This landmark event brings together Pacific Island nations to collectively address shared challenges and explore opportunities to advance agriculture and forestry across the region. 28 May 2025, Nuku'alofa – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands and FAO Representative to the Kingdom of Tonga, Mr. Guangzhou Qu, officially presented his credentials to the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. (Dr) 'Aisake Valu Eke, at the Prime Minister's Office today. Mr. Qu expressed his appreciation to the Government of Tonga for its longstanding partnership with FAO and acknowledged the country's active role in advancing global efforts to strengthen agrifood systems, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development. He reaffirmed FAO's commitment to working closely with the Government to support national efforts to enhance food security and resilience. Working together for agrifood system transformation In a separate meeting, Mr. Qu also presented his credentials to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau. Expressing gratitude for the ongoing collaboration, he emphasized FAO's strong alignment with Tonga's development priorities and highlighted the organization's commitment to transforming Tonga's agrifood systems through initiatives that promote biodiversity, the One Health approach, digital agriculture, climate adaptation, and healthy diets. The opening of the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) on 26 May in Nuku'alofa, hosted by the Government of Tonga with support from FAO and the Pacific Community (SPC), underscores Tonga's leadership in fostering regional dialogue and cooperation. This landmark event brings together Pacific Island nations to collectively address shared challenges and explore opportunities to advance agriculture and forestry across the region.
Scoop
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Scoop
FAO Presents Credentials To Tonga's PM, Reaffirms Commitment To Agricultural & Fisheries Development
Press Release – UN FAO This landmark event brings together Pacific Island nations to collectively address shared challenges and explore opportunities to advance agriculture and forestry across the region. 28 May 2025, Nuku'alofa – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands and FAO Representative to the Kingdom of Tonga, Mr. Guangzhou Qu, officially presented his credentials to the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. (Dr) 'Aisake Valu Eke, at the Prime Minister's Office today. Mr. Qu expressed his appreciation to the Government of Tonga for its longstanding partnership with FAO and acknowledged the country's active role in advancing global efforts to strengthen agrifood systems, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development. He reaffirmed FAO's commitment to working closely with the Government to support national efforts to enhance food security and resilience. Working together for agrifood system transformation In a separate meeting, Mr. Qu also presented his credentials to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau. Expressing gratitude for the ongoing collaboration, he emphasized FAO's strong alignment with Tonga's development priorities and highlighted the organization's commitment to transforming Tonga's agrifood systems through initiatives that promote biodiversity, the One Health approach, digital agriculture, climate adaptation, and healthy diets. The opening of the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) on 26 May in Nuku'alofa, hosted by the Government of Tonga with support from FAO and the Pacific Community (SPC), underscores Tonga's leadership in fostering regional dialogue and cooperation. This landmark event brings together Pacific Island nations to collectively address shared challenges and explore opportunities to advance agriculture and forestry across the region.
Scoop
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Scoop
Pacific Island Countries Endorse ‘Growing The Pacific 2050' Strategy, Advancing Resilient And Inclusive Agrifood Systems
Press Release – UN FAO The transformation of agriculture and forestry for more regeneration, productivity, and resilience was the central theme of the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry. 31/05/2025 Nuku'alofa, Tonga – Ministers of Agriculture and Forestry from Pacific Island countries endorsed the Growing the Pacific 2050 Strategy for Agriculture and Forestry today at the 4th Meeting of the Pacific Ministers of Agriculture and Forestry, held in Nuku'alofa, Tonga. The 4th Ministerial Meeting concluded the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF), hosted by the Kingdom of Tonga and supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Pacific Community (SPC). The Growing the Pacific 2050 Strategy is anchored in five interwoven strategic pathways — healthy, regenerative, secure, integrated, and enabled — which collectively guide transformative action across the agriculture and forestry sectors. These pathways underpin eight catalytic initiatives (2025–2030), which include promoting One Health and regenerative practices; advancing afforestation and climate-resilient systems; strengthening biosecurity and agrobiodiversity; supporting agribusiness and exports; and enhancing data, knowledge, and education systems to build future talent. This endorsement marks a major milestone in the region's collective commitment to building resilient, sustainable, and inclusive agrifood systems for the future. The Minister of Agriculture, Food and Forestry of Tonga, Honourable Dr Siosiua Moala Halavatau set the tone for the ministerial meeting in his opening remarks by urging continued collaboration among Pacific Islands to tackle shared challenges such as out-migration, an aging farmer population, and climate change. 'Agriculture and forestry are vital for the Pacific, as they are the backbones of our economies and the foundation of our food security. But they face significant challenges,' said Dr Halavatau. 'Partnership brings us together today in a genuine effort to work together towards a vibrant, sustainable, and resilient future for Pacific peoples and countries.' FAO Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands, Guangzhou Qu, who reaffirmed FAO's support for the region, emphasized that traditional practices and knowledge in the Pacific provide scalable solutions for climate resilience and sustainable production. 'Guided by examples from across our Pacific nations, we envision a future where healthy soils thrive, farmer organizations lead, transparent data informs our decisions, and biodiversity flourishes,' said Qu. 'By empowering our youth and integrating indigenous knowledge, we can drive innovation that transforms Pacific agrifood systems, leaving no one behind.' SPC's Deputy Director-General (Science and Capability), Dr Paula Vivili, reiterated the cultural significance of food in the Pacific. 'Let us also not forget that food is identity in the Pacific. Our region has immense food heritage and genetic wealth. We must protect it, celebrate it, and build systems that ensure its benefits for Pacific people,' he said. 'Today, through discussions on invasive species, climate-informed food systems planning, and domestic production, we are collectively shaping strategies that are tailored, timely, and rooted in national priorities,' added Vivili. The transformation of agriculture and forestry for more regeneration, productivity, and resilience was the central theme of the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry. This biannual week-long event was officially opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Sinaitakala Tukuaho of the Kingdom of Tonga. PWAF brought together governments, NGOs, community-based organizations, and the private sector to chart a transformative path for agriculture and forestry in the region. Hosted by the Government of Tonga's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forests, PWAF served as an essential platform for sharing knowledge, aligning strategies, and driving collective action toward resilient and sustainable food systems across the Pacific. The fifth PWAF will be hosted by the Solomon Islands in 2027, as agreed by Pacific countries and territories. FAO and SPC, as key technical and resource partners in the region, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Pacific Island Countries in tackling climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation, working collaboratively in building a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
