Minister Puran Gurung reviews operations and future development plans of Sikkim Milk Union

GANGTOK,: Minister for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services and Agriculture & Horticulture department, Puran Kumar Gurung, paid an official visit to the Sikkim Cooperative Milk Producers' Union Ltd. (Sikkim Milk Union) on Saturday and reviewed the functioning, achievements, and future development plans of the organisation.

The minister was welcomed by chairman Y.K. Sharma, managing director Dr. T.B. Ghatani, chief general manager Kesang Deki Barfungpa and other officials of the Union, a press release informs.

During the visit, Gurung inspected various sections of the dairy plant, including milk procurement, processing, packaging, storage facilities, Churpi production unit, laboratory, and administrative sections.

He was also briefed on the upcoming inauguration of the newly established laboratory facility scheduled on June 30 by Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India.

A detailed presentation highlighted the growth of the dairy cooperative movement in Sikkim, the achievements of the Sikkim Milk Union, its contribution towards strengthening rural livelihoods, and its future roadmap for dairy sector development.

Addressing the gathering, the minister appreciated the role of Sikkim Milk Union in supporting dairy farmers and strengthening the dairy sector in the State. He acknowledged the positive impact of the government's milk incentive scheme of Rs 8 per litre and reiterated his commitment to the welfare and development of dairy farmers.

He also emphasized the importance of education and human resource development as key drivers of social and economic progress, the release mentions.

The minister assured continued support from the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services department in addressing the challenges and developmental requirements of the dairy sector. He also assured positive consideration of the union's request for refrigerated utility vehicles to strengthen the cold chain system for safe transportation of milk and milk products.

The visit concluded with fruitful discussions on strengthening dairy infrastructure, enhancing services to milk producers, and advancing the long-term growth of the dairy cooperative movement in Sikkim, the release mentions.