Assam Dairy Revolution: CM Sarma Unveils Plan for 10 Lakh Litre Milk Processing Capacity

Guwahati, Assam – In a landmark announcement set to redefine the state’s agricultural landscape, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has unveiled an ambitious plan to elevate Assam’s daily milk processing capacity to an impressive 10 lakh (1 million) litres within the next three years. This bold vision marks the beginning of what many are calling the “Assam Dairy Revolution,” a strategic initiative designed to bolster the state’s economy, empower local farmers, and ensure greater self-sufficiency in dairy production.

The announcement came during the auspicious bhumi pujan ceremony for the significant expansion of the Purabi Dairy plant in Guwahati, a cornerstone of this transformative project. The current capacity of Purabi Dairy, a familiar name in Assamese households, stands at 1.5 lakh litres per day. Through a substantial investment of ₹100 crore, this capacity is set to double, reaching 3 lakh litres daily. This expansion alone represents a monumental step forward in the Assam Dairy Revolution.

The Pillars of the Assam Dairy Revolution:

The comprehensive strategy for the Assam Dairy Revolution rests on several key pillars:

• Purabi Dairy’s Enhanced Role: The expansion of the Purabi Dairy plant in Guwahati is central to achieving the state’s ambitious targets. This increased capacity will allow for greater processing efficiency and cater to the growing demand for dairy products.
• Strategic Collaboration with NDDB: The initiative is a synergistic joint effort between the Government of Assam and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). This collaboration brings crucial technical expertise, financial support, and a proven track record in dairy development, essential for the success of the Assam Dairy Revolution.
• Establishment of New Processing Units: To truly achieve the 10 lakh litre goal, the state plans to establish new milk processing units in key locations across Assam. These include:
  • Silchar
  • Dibrugarh
  • Jorhat
  • And other strategic regions yet to be announced. These decentralized units will minimize transportation costs, reduce spoilage, and provide more direct access for dairy farmers in various districts, fostering a widespread Assam Dairy Revolution.
• Empowering Local Dairy Farmers: At its core, the Assam Dairy Revolution aims to directly benefit the thousands of dairy farmers across the state. By increasing processing capacity, there will be a greater demand for raw milk, ensuring better prices for farmers’ produce and encouraging higher milk yields. This creates a sustainable livelihood for the rural population.
• Economic Growth and Rural Development: The ripple effect of this initiative will be felt across the state’s economy. The Assam Dairy Revolution is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, both directly in dairy processing and indirectly in related sectors such as transportation, feed production, and retail. This will contribute substantially to rural development and overall economic prosperity.
• Meeting Growing Consumer Demand: As the population grows and dietary habits evolve, the demand for milk and dairy products continues to rise. The Assam Dairy Revolution is a proactive step to meet this increasing demand domestically, reducing reliance on external sources and ensuring a steady supply of fresh, quality dairy for Assamese consumers.
• Technological Advancements and Modernization: The expansion and establishment of new plants will incorporate modern dairy processing technologies, ensuring higher standards of hygiene, quality control, and efficiency. This modernization is a crucial aspect of the ongoing Assam Dairy Revolution.
• Focus on Quality and Safety: With increased processing capacity comes a greater responsibility for maintaining high standards of quality and food safety. The collaboration with NDDB will ensure that all new and expanded facilities adhere to national and international best practices, providing safe and nutritious dairy products to consumers.

A Vision for Self-Sufficiency and Prosperity

Chief Minister Sarma’s announcement underscores a clear vision for Assam: to transform from a milk-importing state to one that is self-sufficient and even a potential exporter of dairy products. This “Assam Dairy Revolution” is not merely about numbers; it’s about building a robust, resilient, and prosperous dairy sector that contributes significantly to the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). The government’s proactive approach, combined with the expertise of organizations like NDDB, sets a strong foundation for this ambitious goal. The coming three years will be pivotal in witnessing the full realization of this transformative Assam Dairy Revolution, promising a brighter future for Assam’s dairy farmers and its citizens.