Important Facts of the News
- 222 automatic milk collection units have been installed in the last two years.
- 29 new bulk milk coolers have been set up this financial year.
- The number of cooperative milk societies has increased to 716.
- More than 40,000 farmers are now selling milk to the federation.
- A new milk processing centre is proposed to be set up in Karcham or Tapri in Kinnaur.
- Possibility to run both Duttnagar milk processing plants on an outsource basis is being explored.
- A proposal will be prepared for a new milk powder plant at the existing Mandi facility.
Review Meeting Highlights
A review meeting of the Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. During the discussion, emphasis was laid on improving the marketing reach and quality standards of dairy products supplied by the federation. The focus remained on enhancing efficiency across processing, procurement, and distribution systems.
New Processing Facility Proposed in Kinnaur
The Chief Minister stated that a new milk processing centre would be developed either at Karcham or Tapri in Kinnaur district. The aim is to supply processed dairy products conveniently to local residents as well as the Army stationed in the region. This facility is expected to strengthen the dairy supply chain in remote high-altitude areas.
Operational Changes Under Consideration
It was noted that both existing milk processing plants located at Duttnagar in Shimla district may be considered for operation through an outsourcing arrangement. The idea behind this consideration is to increase production capacity while ensuring consistency in quality and delivery timelines. Relevant departments will examine the feasibility as part of the next steps.
Expansion in Milk Collection and Societies
This financial year has seen the highest increase in milk procurement for the federation. Along with this, 29 new bulk milk coolers have been installed to support storage and quality maintenance at collection points. Over the past two years, the state has added 222 automatic milk collection units. These expansions have also contributed to the increase in cooperative milk-producing societies, which have now reached 716 in total. The number of farmers supplying milk has also risen, currently exceeding 40,000.
Future Plans in Mandi
A proposal will be drafted to install a new milk powder plant within the existing milk processing infrastructure in Mandi district. This move is expected to diversify product capabilities and help stabilize procurement during peak seasons.
The meeting was attended by Federation President Buddhi Singh Thakur, Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar, Secretary (Health) M. Sudha Devi, Managing Director Vikas Sood, Senior Manager Preeti, and other senior officials.