Vol. 7, Issue 8, Part C (2025)

Dairy farming is more than a livelihood—it is a dynamic enterprise that underpins rural economies across India. In Washim district of Maharashtra, cow milk production significantly contributes to household income and nutritional security for agricultural families. This study is based on primary data collected from 15 dairy farmers representing varied enterprise scales, from small to large. Through direct engagement with these farmers, the research captures practical insights into the economics of milk production, covering input-output ratios, cost structures, milk yield efficiency, marketing practices, and by-product utilization such as cow dung and gaumutra. Unlike studies based on secondary data, this research is rooted in field-level realities and real-time observations. Each farmer’s operational details were meticulously recorded and analyzed to evaluate production costs and income generation. This farmer-centric approach ensures the findings reflect authentic challenges and practices in rural dairy enterprises. The outcomes provide actionable insights for policymakers, dairy entrepreneurs, and researchers to enhance profitability, efficiency, and sustainability in the sector, offering a framework for data-driven decision-making in dairy farm management based on ground-level evidence.