Maharashtra Launches Investigation into Katraj Dairy's Alleged Mismanagement

The Maharashtra state government has launched a comprehensive investigation into the Pune District Cooperative Milk Producers Union, commonly known as Katraj Dairy. This action was prompted by allegations of financial irregularities and fake milk collection records. The directive for this high-level probe was issued by State Dairy Development Minister Atul Save.

The investigation will focus on accusations that Katraj Dairy inflated its milk collection figures by recording deliveries from non-existent or inactive village-level dairy cooperative societies. This practice, if confirmed, could indicate a manipulation of supply data to illegitimately secure state subsidies and corporate funds.

In addition to examining milk collection records, the probe will conduct a detailed audit of Katraj Dairy's financial activities. This includes reviewing the cooperative's increasing operational costs, particularly in advertising and marketing, as well as its growing bank overdraft balances. The committee will also assess the cooperative's procurement procedures at its animal feed manufacturing facilities.

Another critical aspect of the investigation involves the unauthorized distribution of Katraj Dairy's commercial inventory. Specifically, the inquiry is looking into the free distribution of approximately 3,000 liters of milk for religious events, which occurred without the necessary approvals from the board of directors.

The investigation follows the recent election of Arun Chambhare as the new chairman of the union. The outcome of the probe is expected to have significant implications for Katraj Dairy and potentially lead to stricter compliance measures across the Indian dairy cooperative sector.