BIHAR: To give fresh momentum to Tripura’s dairy sector, the Tripura State Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union Limited (Timul) has announced a major expansion drive across the state. Under this initiative, a new milk cooperative society will be established in every Gram Panchayat, aiming to integrate approximately 1.5 lakh new farmers into the dairy business and boost their income.
The state government and Timul believe this campaign will strengthen the rural economy, create employment opportunities for the youth, and lead to a significant rise in milk production. It is viewed as a crucial step towards ensuring a steady income for farmers by integrating the dairy sector with agriculture.
New Milk Societies in Every Panchayat
Under the scheme, new milk cooperative societies will be formed in all Gram Panchayats of the state in a phased manner. These societies will facilitate the direct procurement of milk from farmers at fair prices.
The formation of these new societies will provide small and marginal farmers with the opportunity to engage in the dairy business. This will reduce dependence on middlemen and enable farmers to secure better returns on their produce.
Direct Benefits for 1.5 Lakh Farmers
Timul aims to bring approximately 1.5 lakh new milk-producing farmers into the cooperative network. This will increase the supplementary income of rural households and boost women’s economic participation.
Experts believe that the dairy business can serve as a reliable source of additional income alongside farming, as selling milk daily ensures a steady cash flow for farmers.
Focus on Boosting Milk Production
As part of the campaign, farmers will be provided with improved cattle breeds, veterinary services, vaccination, animal feed, artificial insemination facilities, and training in modern dairy management.
The government’s objective is not merely to increase milk collection but also to enhance milk yield per animal and strengthen quality standards.
Strengthening the Modern Dairy Network
Timul will also expand milk collection centers, chilling plants, transportation systems, and processing capacities. This will streamline the supply of milk from villages to urban areas and ensure timely payments to farmers. Digital payments and a transparent procurement system will also be integrated into this initiative, enabling farmers to receive payments directly into their bank accounts.
New opportunities for women
Special emphasis will be placed on increasing the participation of women’s self-help groups in dairy cooperatives. Since a large number of women in rural areas are engaged in animal husbandry, this scheme will also help make them economically self-reliant.
A boost to the rural economy
Experts believe that if the scheme is implemented on schedule, the dairy sector in Tripura will grow rapidly. Along with increasing farmers’ income, new employment opportunities will be created at the local level, and the state’s milk production will move towards self-reliance.
Timul’s mega plan: New milk cooperative in every panchayat; 1.5 lakh farmers to benefit directly.
