Comfed, operating as Sudha, is expanding internationally with premium dairy exports while strengthening its domestic network and farmer welfare programs.
The Bihar State Milk Co-operative Federation Ltd (Comfed), operating under the well-known Sudha brand, is making major strides both at home and abroad. Formed in 1983 under the visionary leadership of Dr. Verghese Kurien, Comfed has evolved from a modest state-run initiative into a thriving cooperative model that’s now setting its sights on international markets.
With an annual turnover of ₹1,500 crore and profits nearing ₹40 crore, Comfed has emerged as a shining example of how cooperative models can drive rural empowerment while delivering quality consumer products. Its current daily milk collection of 30 lakh litres is slated to increase to 45 lakh litres, reflecting not just operational growth but also rising confidence from farmers and consumers alike.
Out of the collected milk, 18 lakh litres are distributed as liquid milk, while the rest is converted into high-demand dairy products such as curd, paneer, butter, and sweets. A highlight of Comfed’s transformation is its export push, with products like premium ghee, gulab jamun, and makhana now reaching the U.S. through the Bihta dry port and Mundra port in Gujarat. The cooperative is also eyeing UAE markets, aligning with global demand for traditional Indian dairy delicacies.
Domestically, Comfed is expanding its presence with new plants in West Bengal and the National Capital Region (NCR). Though these units are yet to function at full capacity, their development marks a strategic attempt to decentralize operations and serve newer markets efficiently.
A key strength behind Comfed’s success lies in its extensive network of over 30,000 milk societies, involving thousands of rural farmers. To enhance trust and operational transparency, Comfed has implemented Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) for farmer payments. This not only ensures timely payments but also minimizes middlemen interference and financial discrepancies.
In a further show of commitment to farmer welfare, Comfed is preparing to launch a ₹5 lakh accidental medical insurance scheme for every farmer associated with its network. This initiative reflects its mission to improve not only the economic but also the social wellbeing of its stakeholders.
Industry Insight:
Comfed’s expansion marks a significant chapter in India’s dairy narrative. It represents a successful hybrid of scale and social equity, merging grassroots empowerment with global ambitions. As India continues to modernize its agriculture and dairy sectors, Comfed’s journey offers a compelling blueprint for sustainable growth rooted in cooperative values.
