Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday chaired a high-level review meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited (Milkfed) and directed officials to further strengthen its functioning to enhance income opportunities for dairy farmers across the State.
Emphasizing transparency and efficiency, the Chief Minister instructed that milk procurement and related data from all Milkfed plants be maintained through an online system. He also stressed the need to strictly adhere to quality standards in all Milkfed products to maintain consumer trust and enhance the brand value of Himachal’s dairy produce.
Reviewing the progress of the Dhangwar Milk Plant, CM Sukhu said that once operational, the plant would provide significant economic support to dairy farmers from Kangra, Hamirpur, Chamba, and Una districts, strengthening the rural economy of these regions.
Calling for a competitive and market-oriented approach, the Chief Minister said that Milkfed products already enjoy a distinct identity across the country and must be promoted more aggressively. He directed that all essential vacant posts in Milkfed plants and the Federation be filled on priority to ensure smooth and systematic operations.
The Chief Minister also ordered a comprehensive review of all Milkfed milk bars and asked officials to improve efficiency in marketing and distribution activities. He suggested that Milkfed’s desi ghee should also be marketed through the Himira platform to expand its reach.
Highlighting the government’s pro-farmer initiatives, CM Sukhu said that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for cow milk has been increased from ₹32 to ₹51 per litre, while buffalo milk MSP has been raised from ₹47 to ₹61 per litre. Additionally, the transportation subsidy on milk has been enhanced from ₹1.50 to ₹3 per litre. Farmers who transport milk themselves to collection centres located beyond two kilometres are also being provided a subsidy of ₹3 per litre.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed that strengthening Milkfed is a key part of the State Government’s strategy to ensure sustainable livelihoods for dairy farmers and promote cooperative-based rural development.
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