Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated a new state-of-the-art milk processing plant at Duttnagar in the Rampur Assembly constituency today. This facility, built at a cost of Rs. 25.67 crore, has a capacity to process 50,000 liters of milk daily, complementing the existing 20,000-liter plant. The total processing capacity now reaches 70,000 liters per day, benefiting farmers across four districts: Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Kinnaur.
The new plant will produce a range of dairy products, including flavored milk, khoya, ghee, butter, paneer, lassi, and curd, providing a significant boost to the local dairy industry. Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized that around 20,000 farmers, affiliated with 271 milk cooperative societies in the region, will directly benefit from this initiative.
Modern Technology and Transparency in Milk Procurement
CM Sukhu also appealed to Himachal Pradesh Milk Federation to adopt modern technologies, including a digital system to improve transparency in milk procurement. The new system, expected to launch by March 2025, will provide farmers with real-time updates on milk quality and price via SMS. This initiative will also ensure that farmers receive payments directly in their bank accounts.
Government’s Efforts to Strengthen Rural Economy
Under the current government’s vision, “Vyavashta Parivartan,” the focus is on strengthening the rural economy. CM Sukhu highlighted the state’s historic increase in MNREGA wages to Rs. 300 per day and support for natural farming with favorable rates for maize and wheat. Additionally, the state government is committed to providing better facilities for farmers and rural residents.
Addressing Challenges and Improving Livelihoods
Sukhu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to overcoming challenges and providing better services. Despite facing setbacks from the previous government’s lack of adequate budget allocation for essential services, the CM assured the public that His government’s focus is on improving infrastructure, particularly roads, to ensure that the produce of farmers and apple orchardists reaches markets efficiently.
Focus on Livestock and Sustainable Farming
Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Chander Kumar emphasized that efforts are being made to promote livestock breeding and improve the economic conditions of farmers. The government is also working to establish the hill cow milk as a distinct brand, offering better economic opportunities for farmers. The government has also implemented schemes to help with cow dung procurement and natural farming integration.
