BJP Rajya Sabha Ajeet Gopchade, who has been advocating for such a cooperative body for Marathwada said, “Dairy is the main or allied business to farming for scores of farmers from Marathwada. The desired federation is expected to enhance animal husbandry practices. It will also refine and promote the cultivation of animal fodder to increase the milk yield.”

In response to the demand, the ministry of fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying on Feb 4 said that the matter was examined and forwarded to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) for further appropriate action. Earlier, on Jan 14, the ministry of cooperation extended its support to the Cooperative Milk Federation for Marathwada.

“The National Cooperative Development Corporation would support any initiative of the department of animal husbandry and dairying for boosting the income of dairy farmers through cooperatives in the Marathwada region,” union secretary with the ministry of cooperation said in its letter. Notably, Marathwada has a tradition of Khoya production using milk, with many dairy farmers taking up the practice to supplement their income.