A core component of this strategy involves integrating more producers into the cooperative dairy system. To date, 9,500 milk producers have already been onboarded through the formation of 381 new milk cooperative societies. This expansion aligns with earlier directives from Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, who emphasized the need to enhance the profitability of Madhya Pradesh’s dairy development schemes through crucial amendments, ensuring sustainable benefits for all stakeholders within the dairy community.

During a recent high-level review meeting, officials presented Chief Minister Yadav with updates on various initiatives. These include concerted efforts to boost milk collection, improve the genetic breed of dairy animals, and develop model farms dedicated to indigenous breeds with support from the National Dairy Development Board. Furthermore, the state is keen on enhancing the market presence and popularity of its homegrown ‘Sanchi’ milk brand, aiming for greater consumer engagement and value addition for dairy farmers.

Tangible progress is already evident, with the establishment of a Heifer Rearing Centre under the Bhopal Milk Union, a crucial step for future herd development. Crucially, timely payments to farmers for milk purchased were highlighted as a priority, ensuring financial stability at the grassroots level. Milk unions have also taken proactive steps to increase milk prices by Rs 2.5 to Rs 6 per litre, directly benefiting producers. Notably, Jabalpur and Gwalior milk unions have seen significant increases in milk collection and have received Rs 2 crore each in working capital to clear any pending payments.