Leh/Jammu, May 1
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday laid the foundation stone for a dairy processing plant in Kargil with a capacity of 10,000 litres per day and launched multiple dairy development initiatives aimed at improving farmer income, strengthening infrastructure and ensuring transparency in milk procurement across Ladakh.
The upcoming dairy plant, estimated to cost Rs 25 crore, will be powered by a solar-based system, making it suitable for the region’s terrain and energy needs. Officials said the project is part of a broader effort to build a more self-reliant dairy sector in Ladakh.
Alongside the plant, several initiatives have been introduced to modernise milk collection and processing. These include mobile milk-testing laboratories, improved cooling systems, and digital payment mechanisms to ensure timely, transparent transactions for farmers.
To further streamline procurement, mobile milk collection units will directly gather milk from farmers, helping maintain quality and reduce logistical challenges. Officials said these measures are expected to strengthen the local dairy network and provide better market access.
The programme is also focusing on expanding farmer participation and improving incomes. Over time, the number of farmers linked to the dairy network has increased significantly, with daily milk collection reaching substantial levels and payments being made directly to producers.
Officials added that the initiatives are designed to create a stable and efficient dairy ecosystem in Ladakh, supported by modern technology and infrastructure. Efforts are also being made to enhance value addition through dairy products and ensure a consistent supply in the region.
The new dairy plant and related initiatives are expected to provide long-term support to farmers in Ladakh by improving income opportunities and strengthening rural livelihoods. The focus will now be on implementation and ensuring that benefits reach a wider section of the farming community.
