New Delhi, January 23, 2025: In a major boost to Himachal Pradesh’s dairy industry, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art milk processing plant in Dhangwar, Dharamshala, today. The project, with an estimated cost of ₹225 crore, is expected to transform the lives of dairy farmers and strengthen the rural economy.
Addressing the media, CM Sukhu outlined the details of the project, emphasizing that the milk plant will initially have a capacity of processing 1.5 lakh liters of milk per day (LLPD), with the potential to scale up to 3 lakh LLPD. He stated that this venture will be a game-changer for the state’s dairy farmers and animal husbandry sector, offering them a reliable market for their milk.
Impact on Rural Economy
The milk processing plant will primarily source milk from four districts: Kangra, Una, Chamba, and Hamirpur, benefiting almost half of Himachal Pradesh’s population directly. The establishment of cooperative societies in these areas will play a crucial role in milk collection. CM Sukhu further highlighted that the project would create new livelihood opportunities and improve the profitability of dairy farming, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.
Dairy Products to be Manufactured
The plant will produce a range of dairy products, including milk, toned milk, double-toned milk, flavored milk, curd, paneer, lassi, khoya, and mozzarella cheese. With the establishment of this advanced processing facility, the milk procurement, processing, and marketing systems in the region will also be strengthened, ensuring better efficiency and product quality.
‘Him Ganga’ Scheme# and Livelihood Boost
Chief Minister Sukhu also announced the ‘Him Ganga’ scheme, aimed at developing a milk-based economy in the state. This initiative will provide a reliable market for dairy farmers and directly benefit them by increasing the price of milk through the production of high-quality dairy products. In a historic move, Himachal Pradesh has become the first state to set a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of ₹45 for cow milk and ₹55 for buffalo milk, ensuring direct benefits to the rural population according to the reports published in thenewzradar.com.
This initiative is expected to give a significant political edge to the Congress party and the state government, especially as it directly addresses the livelihood concerns of rural voters and boosts economic growth in a key sector. The political benefits for Chief Minister Sukhu, especially in terms of building a pro-rural and farmer-friendly image, cannot be overstated. This initiative is poised to not only elevate the Congress’s position but also strengthen the leadership of CM Sukhu, providing a long-term impact on Himachal Pradesh’s socio-political landscape.
