222 automatic milk collection units installed in Himachal in two years: CM

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that 222 automatic milk collection units have been installed across Himachal Pradesh during the past two years as part of the government’s concerted efforts to strengthen the dairy sector and boost rural income.

Transparency and timely payments to farmers have also been ensured, he added.

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He was presiding over the review meeting of the Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited (MilkFED) in Shimla on Saturday, where he emphasized the need for better marketing strategies, high-quality standards, and expansion of milk processing infrastructure in the state.

He directed officials to ensure better marketing and maintain the highest quality standards for the federation’s products.

The Chief Minister said that a new milk processing centre would be established in Karcham or Tapri in Kinnaur district to make quality milk and milk products readily available to the army as well as the local people.

He added that this initiative would not only enhance rural livelihoods but also strengthen the cooperative network in the tribal belt of the state.

He also directed that the feasibility of running both milk processing plants at Duttnagar in Shimla district on an outsourced basis should be examined to further increase production and operational efficiency.

A proposal will also be prepared to set up a new milk powder plant within the existing milk processing facility at Mandi to ensure value addition and optimum utilization of resources.

The Chief Minister said that the federation has recorded the highest-ever increase in milk procurement during the current financial year.

To improve storage and distribution, 29 new bulk milk coolers have been installed across various districts.

Sukhu said that concerted efforts have been made to strengthen the cooperative structure in the dairy sector.

The number of milk-producing cooperative societies has risen to 716, while over 40,000 farmers are now selling milk directly to MilkFED, reflecting growing trust and participation in the cooperative movement, he added.