Rs. 201 Crore Allocated for Dhagwar Milk Processing Plant, says CM.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced today that the state government has allocated Rs. 201 crores for the construction of a state-of-the-art milk processing plant in Dhagwar, Kangra district. The project, developed in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board, is set to commence construction imminently.
The plant will initially have a capacity to process 1.50 lakh litres per day (LLPD), with provisions for future expansion up to 3 LLPD. This fully automated facility will produce a range of dairy products including curd, lassi, butter, ghee, paneer, flavored milk, khoya, and mozzarella cheese. Its establishment is poised to bolster the economic prospects of farmers across Kangra, Hamirpur, Chamba, and Una districts.
Emphasizing the significance of the project, Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted its potential to uplift the dairy farming community and contribute substantially to the state’s economy. “This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing farmer welfare and advancing Himachal Pradesh’s dairy sector,” he affirmed.
Furthermore, once operational, the Dhagwar milk processing plant will also initiate production of milk powder, ice cream, and various types of cheese, further diversifying its offerings.
In a move to support farmers, Chief Minister Sukhu noted recent increases in milk procurement prices under the current administration, with cow milk prices raised from Rs. 32 to Rs. 45 per litre, and buffalo milk to Rs. 55 per litre. “These adjustments are part of broader efforts to bolster farmers’ incomes, with additional welfare schemes planned for the future,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of rural economic development, Chief Minister Sukhu stressed, “Ensuring the financial stability of our farmers is crucial for Himachal Pradesh’s self-sufficiency and prosperity. With 95 percent of our population residing in rural areas, strengthening our rural economy is paramount to achieving our vision of a prosperous and self-reliant state.”
The Dhagwar milk processing plant project stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to agricultural advancement and sustainable economic growth in Himachal Pradesh.
