CM announces Rs 250 crore for Dhagwar milk processing plant in Kangra district

Dharamsala, May 24, 2023: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu visited the milk processing plant in Dhagwar in Dharamsala , Kangra district today, announcing a government investment of Rs. 250 crore for facility upgrades. The state government aims to collect milk from cattle herders and sell milk products to boost the rural economy. In line with this objective, the government is launching the 'Him-Ganga' scheme, which focuses on developing a milk-based economy in the state.

Under the 'Him-Ganga' scheme, cattle rearers will receive fair prices for their milk and milk products, based on actual costs. Efforts will be made to enhance the quality and efficiency of milk procurement, processing, and marketing systems. The government aims to safeguard milk producers, especially vulnerable sections of society, from regional and seasonal price fluctuations. A provision of Rs. 500 crore has been allocated for the 'Him-Ganga' scheme, starting with a pilot project connecting farmers before expanding to other areas.

The Chief Minister emphasized the formation of milk producer cooperative societies as per the requirements to ensure effective marketing of milk and related products, thereby increasing the income of milk producers. The establishment of new milk processing plants and the upgrade of existing facilities are vital for the success of the Him-Ganga scheme. Necessary infrastructure and supply systems will be developed in a phased manner.

Agriculture Minister Professor Chandra Kumar praised the Chief Minister's innovative approach to improving the rural economy. He highlighted that the Congress party has guaranteed the purchase of cow's milk at Rs. 80 per liter and buffalo's milk at Rs. 100 per liter, which will play a significant role in the future milk revolution in Himachal Pradesh.

Local MLA Sudhir Sharma expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for devising an action plan for the expansion of the Dhagwar milk plant.
 
Afterward, the Chief Minister visited the Bio-diversity Park in Narwana, inspecting its facilities.
 
Chief Parliamentary Secretary Kishori Lal, MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, Chairman of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation RS Bali, Chairman of Agricultural Development Bank Sanjay Chauhan, Vice Chairman of Himachal Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation Vishal Chambiyal, and other dignitaries were also present during the visit.