Nellore Dairy's Revival: Samithi Urges NDDB to Takeover
In Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, the Prakasam Dairy Preservation Committee is urging NDDB to take over operations at the 46-year-old milk producer company. The committee highlights how this move could restore stability for farmers and prevent adulteration.
Highlights
- •NDDB takeover requested by dairy preservation committee
- •Prakasam Dairy established in 1976
- •Local farmers face market instability
- •Defunct operations leading to milk adulteration risk
Nellore, Andhra Pradesh – Advocates of the Prakasam Dairy Preservation Committee are advocating for National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to revive and manage the struggling Prakasam Milk Producer Company Ltd. established back in 1976. Located in Ongole, this dairy serves as a vital hub providing stable markets for small farmers and rural communities.
Key Features and History
The dairy owns expansive lands covering 109 acres of arable land, chilling centers, collection units, and even a milk powder plant. Formerly part of the Mother Dairy brand after NDDB's revival attempt, the facility now faces defunct operations, allegedly due to poor management, which has caused distress among local producers.
Samithi's Advocacy
In their petition addressed to Andhra Pradesh 20-Point Programme chairman Lanka Dinakar, Samithi leaders emphasized the dire need for NDDB's intervention. They pointed out that the dairy has once again become non-operational under current management, leading to a rise in milk adulteration and economic insecurity for local farmers.
Recalling promises made by Minister Nara Lokesh during the Yuvagalam Padayatra, Samithi leaders expressed hope that this time NDDB would take responsibility. Their plea is not only about ensuring steady market access but also restoring trust in dairy operations within rural Andhra Pradesh.
Impact and Significance
The proposed takeover reflects a broader effort to bolster regional agricultural economies and prevent the resurgence of unsafe practices like milk adulteration. The future of countless small farmers hinges on this move, emphasizing NDDB's role in re-establishing sustainable dairy cycles.
