Maharashtra govt to revive dairy units with PPP model.

The state government has decided to revive its dairy units and milk chilling plants through the public private partnership (PPP) model. The decision was taken at the cabinet meeting with an aim to promote dairy farming and alternative source of livelihood for farmers across the drought-hit and backward regions of Vidarbha and Marathwada.

Accordingly, a decision was taken to promote the Aarey Milk Brand, which is under the state dairy development board, and support it through marketing. The Aarey brand will be provided outlets in malls and other places.

Of the total 13,985 acres of land under dairy units, 3,599 acres have been given to various government offices and organisations. So, total land available with the dairy development board is 10,386 acres. In all, 12 government-owned dairies and 45 milk chilling plants across Maharashtra have shut down. Whereas, 20 dairy and 28 milk chilling plants across Mumbai, Pune, Nanded and Ahmednagar are also headed towards closure. Despite running losses, the government has to provide salaries and other allowances to the employees in these units.

To revive the units which are defunct and running in losses, the government is banking on the PPP model. The step will also help farmers get into the dairy business along with crop cultivation. The revival of the dairy units will also generate revenue for the government. According to estimates, reviving the units structures will require Rs. 250-300 crore.

THE INDIAN EXPRESS