In a strategic bid to expand its footprint in India’s competitive value-added dairy segment, Kolhapur District Milk Producers Cooperative Federation Ltd., popularly known as Gokul Dairy, is set to enter the ice cream and cheese markets. The move is designed to take on established players like Amul and leading private dairy brands ahead of the next peak summer season.
The decision was finalised during the Federation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at its flagship unit in Kagal Five Star MIDC, and chaired by Gokul’s sitting chairman, Navid Mushrif. This AGM marks a crucial milestone, as it precedes the forthcoming five-yearly elections for the Federation’s board of directors.
Product Diversification to Boost Dairy Market Share
Chairman Mushrif stated that the Federation is in the advanced stages of research and product development for both ice cream and cheese. “We aim to start production before summer 2026. Our Basundi is already a household name in Mumbai and other urban centres, so we’re confident about consumer response to new products,” he said.
By branching into value-added dairy products, Gokul aims to tap into rising consumer demand for premium dairy offerings, a segment witnessing robust growth across India.
Production Scale and Financial Performance
Gokul reported significant operational scale and growth over the past fiscal year. According to Mushrif:
- The Federation collected 58 crore litres of buffalo and cow milk in FY 2024–25
- It achieved a record daily milk collection of 18.59 lakh litres
- The target for daily collection has now been raised to 25 lakh litres
- Gokul’s annual turnover stood at ₹3,966 crore, marking a ₹296 crore increase over the previous year
These figures underscore Gokul’s strong position in Maharashtra’s dairy market landscape, making it well-placed to enter the competitive ice cream and cheese segments.
Governance Changes Amid Political Undertones
During the AGM, the Federation also approved an expansion of its board from 21 to 25 directors. However, this proposal drew opposition from BJP leader and director Shoumika Mahadik, who argued that the expansion could strain Gokul’s financial resources. She further alleged procedural unfairness, stating that she was denied the opportunity to speak during the meeting, claiming that her microphone had been deliberately turned off. Chairman Mushrif dismissed the claim.
The meeting also reflected shifting political dynamics within the cooperative sector. Once rivals, minister Hasan Mushrif and Congress leader Satej Patil appeared seated together, signalling a potential realignment. This follows prior intervention by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, who pushed for Mahayuti’s consolidation of power within the Federation.