Sudha Dairy has revolutionized Bihar’s dairy sector, overcoming traditional challenges and empowering local farmers. Through its cooperative model, Sudha Dairy has become a major player, boosting local incomes and expanding its reach beyond Bihar.
Bihar has long been perceived as a challenging environment for cooperatives and entrepreneurship. However, Sudha Dairy has defied these expectations and emerged as a symbol of success in the state. This article explores how Sudha Dairy has revolutionized Bihar’s dairy sector, empowered local farmers, and become a model of cooperative success.
The Genesis of Sudha Dairy
The origins of Sudha Dairy trace back to the influence of Amul Dairy. Inspired by Amul’s success, then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri encouraged Dr. Verghese Kurien to replicate this model across India. In response, the National Dairy Development Board was established, and ‘Operation Flood’ was launched. Bihar adopted this initiative in 1972 with the help of the central government, marking the beginning of a new era in the state’s dairy industry.
The Rise of Sudha Dairy
Operational Expansion: Sudha Dairy operates under the Patna Dairy Project, with production facilities spread across seven locations in Bihar. Dairy farmers deliver their milk to nearby centres, where it is then transported to a central facility for processing. The processed milk is used to produce a variety of products, including milk, ghee, butter, buttermilk, and ice cream. Today, Sudha Dairy boasts an annual turnover of ₹5,000 crore and its success story is featured in NCERT textbooks.
Impact on Local Farmers: Sudha Dairy has significantly improved the livelihoods of dairy farmers in Bihar. By providing a reliable market and fair prices for their milk, the cooperative has enhanced the income of thousands of farmers. The model has also ensured that milk and dairy products are consistently available, even during festivals when milk was once scarce.
Case Study: Asha Devi’s Success: Asha Devi from Basahi village, Begusarai, exemplifies the transformative impact of Sudha Dairy. After joining the Dairy Corporation Society Baroni in 1997, she faced challenges when her husband absconded with the funds. Determined to succeed, Asha took over the management of the committee and promised to repay the villagers within six months. Her perseverance led to the committee’s revival and a positive turnaround for her village.
Also Read- Sudha Dairy Plant Approved for Bhore Assembly, Bihar
Government Support and Evolution
Initially, there was resistance to the dairy’s cooperative model, with the state government considering taking control. Dr. Kurien’s advocacy for dairy farmers led to the Bihar government yielding, and the cooperative was handed over to the farmers. This decision paved the way for Sudha Dairy’s growth and operational success. The government now oversees administrative aspects, while dairy operations remain under the control of the farmers’ unions.
Current Achievements and Future Prospects
Expanding Reach: Sudha Dairy’s products have not only become a staple in Bihar but are also reaching markets beyond the state. The cooperative’s success is attributed to minimal government interference and strong management by the dairy farmers’ unions.
Sustaining Success: The cooperative continues to innovate and expand, contributing to Bihar’s development and setting a precedent for cooperative ventures in other regions. Sudha Dairy’s journey from a local initiative to a major player in India’s dairy sector is a testament to the power of cooperative models and entrepreneurial spirit.
In conclusion, Sudha Dairy has redefined Bihar’s dairy industry and proved that with the right support and management, even challenging environments can foster thriving enterprises. The cooperative’s success story not only reflects its impact on the local economy but also serves as an inspiration for similar ventures across the country.
