CMann govt revived Verka Milkfed Punjab

Milkfed Chairman Narinder Singh Shergill praised the work done by the Aam Aadmi Party government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in Punjab’s milk/dairy sector and highlighted Verka’s achievements over the past three years.

Addressing a press conference on Sunday in Chandigarh, alongside Milkfed directors Ranjit Singh, Amandeep Singh, Rameshwar Singh, Bhupinder Singh, and Harminder Singh, Chairman Narinder Singh Shergill said that previous governments tried to shut down Milkfed, but the Mann government revived it.

He stated that the previous government amended the ESR law to merge Verka with Amul, which significantly weakened the organization. Earlier, it had 6,000 permanent employees, but after the ESR amendment, only 800 employees remained, with the rest being shifted to other departments.

“We strengthened Verka. Two years ago, Verka’s revenue was ₹4,500 crore, and now it has increased to ₹6,200 crore. Additionally, there has been growth in many other aspects,” he added.

Shergill said that Milkfed is the only institution in Punjab that is directly connected with farmers. This organization has played a crucial role in improving the livelihoods of dairy farmers and enhancing their standard of living. He also shared the key points of Milkfed’s achievements…

Financial Support to Dairy Farmers

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, continuous efforts have been made to improve the financial condition of dairy farmers. As a significant initiative, milk prices have been set at profitable rates. This has had a direct impact on the income of farmers, making dairy farming a more sustainable and profitable business.

Investment in Infrastructure and Technology

The Chief Minister has taken proactive steps to modernize dairy infrastructure in Punjab. Key projects include the inauguration of the Rs 325 crore milk processing plant in Mohali, the Rs 123 crore project at Amritsar, and the Rs 105 crore project at Ludhiana, Rs 84 crore fermented and processing plant at Jalandhar, Rs 10.15 crore Bypass protein plant.

These projects are crucial to expanding and modernizing the dairy sector to meet the growing demand for milk and dairy products.

Promotion of Technological Advancements

Chief Minister Mann has been a strong advocate for the adoption of advanced technology in the dairy sector. The implementation of SAP software at Milkfed’s plants has enhanced automation, transparency, and efficiency. These technological advancements have streamlined operations, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.

Encouragement for New Product Development

The Chief Minister’s vision has encouraged the development of innovative dairy products, including Rabri, Tetra Pack Cream, Rose Lassi, and Low-Fat Curd. These new products have not only expanded Milkfed’s market share but have also opened up new revenue streams for farmers, further strengthening the dairy economy.

Increased Milk Procurement and Expansion of Reach

Under S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, Milkfed has seen a substantial increase in milk procurement, growing from 18.3 lakh liters per day in 2022-23 to 21 lakh liters per day in 2024-25. This increase reflects the growing demand and Milkfed’s commitment to strengthening its role as a key player in the dairy sector.

Focus on Education and Skill Development

The Chief Minister has emphasized the importance of education and skill development for dairy farmers. In partnership with Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), the Dairy Innovation and Entrepreneurial Training Centre (DIET) was launched under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).

The center, with a capacity to process 25,000 liters of milk per day, provides critical training to farmers, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the dairy sector.

Financial Support and Budget Allocation

Chief Minister Mann’s government has allocated significant resources to support the dairy sector. In the 2024-25 state budget, Rs 100 crore has been earmarked to support Milkfed, ensuring that dairy farmers receive the necessary tools and incentives to succeed.

Implementation of New Service Rules for Milkfed Employees

Recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce, the Chief Minister introduced new service rules 2023 for Milkfed employees, which were approved by the Punjab Government. This move has enhanced job security and morale, ensuring that Milkfed continues to function effectively and efficiently.

These Rules will ensure Massive Recruitment and Retention of Employees apart from Industrial peace.

Increased Milkfed’s Turnover

Milkfed’s turnover has seen substantial growth under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s administration, rising from Rs 4,886 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 5,643 crore in 2023-24. Aiming for a turnover of Rs 10,000 crore, the government is committed to further strengthening Milkfed’s position in the dairy sector.

Latest infrastructural development and achievements:-

1. Milkfed has submitted projects under RKVY of Rs 417.86 Crore, these projects will help Milkfed in modernization of Plants, capacity enhancements and Launch of new products. The government is requested to approve these projects.

2. After a period of 2 years,milkfed has successfully received annual tender for supply of 1700MT desi Ghee, 300MT Whole milk powder, 2500 Liter/day Milk, 500KG/Day Panner and 1000Kg/Day Dahi for supply to SGPC. Along with tender allocation with radha swami satsang beas for supply of UHT milk, Dairy Whitener, Desi Ghee also Milkfed has started Desi Ghee to Mata Vaisnoo devi Shrine Board located at Khatra, J&K.

3. Milkfed has successfully started supplying Dairy Whitener, Dahi and Table Butter through IRCTC in prominent Trains like Rajdhani, Stabdi, Vande Bharat and Tejas.

4. Milkfed has entered into an agreement with the army for supply of 90 Lacks liter of UHT milk and Rose Lassi during the period 1.10.2024 – 30.09.2025 and 01.04.2025-31.03.2026.

5. Milkfed has been awarded one star export house certification by DgFT valid up to 31.03.2028 for doing exports.

6. Milkfed has enterned into an agreement with 111 govt. schools for supply of sweetened flavoured milk(Finno pack) under PM-Poshan yojana.

Source : Dairynews7x7 March 24th 2025 Yes Punjab