Assam Pushes Dairy Growth Via Farmer Subsidies and Processing

Guwahati, October 30: The Assam government is stepping up efforts to build a stronger dairy sector, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Friday. The state's aim is to produce 10 lakh litres of milk every day.

The plan includes direct subsidies for dairy farmers and an expansion of milk processing infrastructure. Both measures are designed to support production and strengthen the sector's base.

In a post on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister said that a strong dairy sector would improve nutrition, protect the livelihoods of farmers and make the rural economy more resilient.

Sarma framed the steps as part of Assam's goal of becoming self-reliant, or 'Atmanirbhar Assam.' He noted that the state's per capita milk availability is below the national average. Therefore, production needs to rise and the dairy supply chain needs to improve.

The government has set the daily production target at 10 lakh litres. To encourage dairy activity and support farmers' earnings, it is providing direct subsidies on milk.

The state is also preparing to build large dairy processing plants throughout Assam. These facilities are expected to improve processing capacity, make handling and management more efficient and encourage an organised dairy sector.

The Chief Minister's post highlighted a milk processing plant in Sonitpur district, which has a daily capacity of 20,000 litres. The plant is expected to add to the state's processing infrastructure and increase the supply of processed milk.

The announcement comes as Assam tries to close the gap between local milk demand and production. The state is also trying to create better market access for dairy farmers. Achieving the production target will depend on strengthening milk collection, processing and distribution networks.

The government's focus on subsidies and processing facilities is intended to encourage more people to take up dairy farming. It also seeks to improve the sector's ability to serve consumers. Steady growth in milk production could generate rural employment and create an additional income stream for farm households.

Sarma said these measures will lay the groundwork for an Atmanirbhar Assam, leading to better nutrition, stronger livelihoods for farmers and a more empowered rural economy.