Himachal Pradesh has recorded an 18% increase in milk procurement, reaching 190,000 liters per day, thanks to state government initiatives led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The rise in procurement is accompanied by improved milk quality and increased financial support to farmers. Additionally, a new ₹201 crore ($24.31 million) milk processing plant is set to further enhance the dairy sector.
Record Milk Procurement Levels
Himachal Pradesh, India, has achieved a significant milestone in dairy production with an 18% increase in milk procurement, reaching a record average of 190,000 liters per day (LLPD). This surge is attributed to the proactive measures and supportive policies implemented by the state government, particularly under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The enhancements are facilitated through Milkfed, a key organization in the state’s dairy sector responsible for milk collection and distribution.
Improvements in Milk Quality
The increase in procurement is accompanied by an improvement in milk quality, with fat content rising from 3.50% to 3.65% and solid-not-fat (SNF) content increasing from 7.50% to 7.70%. These advancements reflect the effectiveness of the government’s strategies in motivating cattle rearers to actively participate in the dairy sector.
Increased Financial Support to Farmers
In a demonstration of support for the farming community, Milkfed has significantly increased its financial support to milk producers. The organization disbursed ₹19.42 crore ( $2.34 million) in May 2024 and ₹21.42 crore ( $2.60 million) in June 2024, compared to ₹11.01 crore ( $1.33 million) and ₹11.88 crore ( $1.43 million) in the same months of the previous year.
Boosting Procurement Prices
Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the state government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers, announcing an increase in procurement prices for milk. The price for cow milk has risen from ₹32 ($0.39) to ₹45 ($0.55) per liter, and the rate for buffalo milk has been increased to ₹55 ($0.67) per liter. This move is expected to bolster the financial stability of dairy farmers.
New Milk Processing Plant Initiative
Additionally, the state government has allocated ₹201 crore ( $24.31 million) for the development of a state-of-the-art milk processing plant at Dhagwar in Kangra district. This facility, in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board, will initially have a capacity of 150,000 LLPD, expandable to 300,000 LLPD. The fully automated plant will produce a diverse range of dairy products, including curd, lassi, butter, ghee, paneer, flavored milk, khoya, and mozzarella cheese, ensuring fair prices for farmers.
Strengthening the Rural Economy
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the importance of strengthening the rural economy, noting that approximately 95% of Himachal Pradesh’s population resides in rural areas. He affirmed that achieving a prosperous and self-reliant Himachal Pradesh is contingent upon ensuring the financial stability of its farmers.
