Bihar Enhances Dairy Capacity with New Curd and Lassi Plant
Bihar is set to expand its dairy processing capabilities with the establishment of a new 20 metric tonne per day (MTPD) curd and lassi plant at the Biharsharif Dairy Project in Nalanda. The foundation for this project was laid by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, marking a significant step in meeting the increasing consumer demand for value-added dairy products.
The new facility will be operated by COMFED under its flagship brand, Sudha, and is designed to enhance the cooperative's ability to compete in both domestic and international markets. This initiative aligns with India's national cooperative vision, “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity through Cooperation), and the goals of White Revolution 2.0.
COMFED aims to convert surplus raw liquid milk into higher-margin fermented products like curd and lassi, providing stability to smallholder producers against seasonal price fluctuations. The project seeks to bolster the livelihoods of rural communities and improve the competitiveness of Bihar's dairy network.
Significant progress has been made by COMFED, as noted by its Managing Director, Shirsat Kapil Ashok. Over 2,500 new village-level dairy cooperative societies have been established across Bihar, increasing daily raw milk procurement by more than 300,000 litres from the previous year. This expansion has particularly benefited women dairy farmers through the Sudha Sakhi initiative.
To support the project, the state distributed deep freezers to 300 retail vendors, enhancing Sudha's cold chain distribution network. Additionally, eight animal transport vehicles were launched, and plans for a COMFED-operated HPCL petrol station and a Sudha Cafeteria were announced, integrating commercial services into the dairy complex.
Looking forward, COMFED has outlined plans for livestock development to maintain raw milk quality and efficiency. Upcoming projects include a specialized Semen Station in Lakhisarai and an Animal Husbandry Training Institute in Munger, aiming to create a sustainable dairy ecosystem in Bihar.
