Haryana procures surplus milk from cooperatives to bridge slump in sales

CHANDIGARH — After the announcement of the lockdown by the Government of India to prevent the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, there was a decrease in the sale of milk due to the closure of establishments/businesses of dhabas, tea shops, hotels, restaurants and caterers therefore, the Haryana Government has decided that surplus milk would be procured through dairy cooperatives so that there is no disruption in the supply of Vita milk and milk products in the coming days. As compared to last year in March, this year 40 percent more milk is being processed.

In this regard, the Managing Director, Haryana Dairy Development Cooperative Federation, Mr. A. Sreenivas appealed to the people to not panic as Haryana Dairy is processing all the milk available through the cooperatives of its milk producers.

Haryana Dairy is purchasing 8 lakh litres of milk per day which is 40 percent more than the previous year and accordingly Haryana Dairy Federation is taking surplus milk available in the entire state.

The Haryana Dairy Development Cooperative Federation has an uninterrupted supply of Vita milk and milk products across the state and despite the lockdown, the supply will continue for the general public.

He informed that surplus milk available in Haryana will also be purchased by Haryana Dairy Federation. He also informed that proper sanitation is being followed during the procurement, processing / packing and supply of milk and milk products as per the directions of the Health Department.

He informed that Haryana Dairy Federation is fully prepared to deal with any situation arising out of lockdown and added that the process of procurement of milk at the societal level, processing of milk and smooth distribution through distributors, retailers, and Vita milk booths has been ensured after the Government announced the lockdown.

He also informed that milk is covered under the essential commodities category and activities involved in it have been allowed to start during the lockdown. However, there are many associated activities which include the availability of husk for boilers, packing materials, movement of workers, transportation, etc., which are important to ensure the availability of Vita milk and milk products to the general public, he added.

He further said that the activities assisted by private vendors and the issues faced by these vendors are being resolved on a regular basis. The Haryana Dairy Federation has also tied up with “Swiggy” for online delivery of Vita milk and milk products in the areas of Panchkula, Faridabad, and Gurugram, he added.

He informed that elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure that safe and nutritious milk and milk products are available to consumers and there is no disruption in supply in the coming days.

He informed that all precautionary measures have been taken to ensure the production of nutritious milk and milk products. The workforce of Haryana Dairy is fully sensitive and all proven measures are being taken as per the guidelines issued by WHO, Central/State Governments, he said.