Ranchi, June 6, 2025: In a significant step to strengthen dairy infrastructure and rural livelihoods, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren laid the foundation stone for a milk powder plant in Ranchi. The plant, to be built on the Medha Dairy Plant campus in Hotwar, will have a production capacity of 20 tonnes per day and is being developed with an investment of ₹80 crore.

The facility will be operated by Medha, the dairy brand under the Jharkhand Milk Federation (JMF).

🧀 Vision for Dairy-Led Rural Growth

Speaking at the ceremony, CM Soren emphasised the role of animal husbandry and agriculture in creating sustainable livelihoods.

"In a time of rising inflation, farmer incomes are not increasing at the same pace. We are committed to reversing that through schemes focused on procurement, incentives, and infrastructure," he said.

He emphasised that agriculture and allied sectors, such as dairying, are crucial to both the state and national economies, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population.

The government, Soren added, is actively buying both paddy and milk from farmers to ensure market assurance and boost incomes.

📈 Toward Self-Sufficiency and Export Potential

Highlighting a 5–7 year roadmap, the Chief Minister said:

“We aim to make Jharkhand self-sufficient in milk, fish, and meat production—and ultimately become an exporter.”

The government is formulating an action plan to:

• Expand milk collection networks
• Ensure fair pricing for farmers and cattle rearers
• Offer incentives for milk production
• Provide assured markets through federations like JMF

🐄 Ecology-Friendly Livelihoods

Soren also made a broader case for promoting farming and animal husbandry over more ecologically damaging industries:

“These are ventures that support both livelihoods and environmental sustainability.”

The Chief Minister’s remarks included a reference to cricketer M.S. Dhoni, applauding his involvement in farming as an example of agricultural entrepreneurship.