Onkar Dairy Farm, located in Punjab, is a notable example of progressive dairy farming in India. It has evolved from a small-scale setup into a highly productive commercial dairy enterprise. This case study outlines the farm’s developmental trajectory, economic strategies, and plans for generational succession.
Development of the Farm: Strategic Expansion and Technological Adoption
Harpreet Singh laid the foundation of Onkar Dairy Farm in the late 1990s. Starting with 2–3 animals, Harpreet gradually expanded the herd and improved operational scale through strategic investments in genetics, animal health, and farm infrastructure. By 2005, the farm grew to accommodate 20–25 cows and incorporated selective breeding practices using imported Holstein Friesian (HF) semen.
Key milestones in infrastructure development include the installation of a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) machine, a modern milking parlour, and ventilated animal sheds. These upgrades improved productivity and ensured animal welfare and efficient farm management. The current herd size exceeds 250 cattle, with daily milk production reaching approximately 3,500 litres.
Economic Framework: Managing Input Costs and Enhancing Productivity
Sound farm economics underpin Onkar Dairy Farm’s success. Despite challenges such as high feed costs and milk price volatility, Harpreet Singh managed to maintain financial sustainability through cost optimisation and targeted investments. For example, a comprehensive vaccination program and controlled calf nutrition (pasteurised milk feeding) were adopted to reduce long-term veterinary costs and improve herd health outcomes.
A significant economic milestone was the clearance of a major loan in 2014, which had been used for farm expansion. The return on investment was bolstered by consistently high milk yields, record-setting cows, and efficient distribution through established buyers like Verka. The farm has also won over 100 industry awards, adding reputational value.
Productivity Benchmarks and Recognition
Onkar Dairy Farm has achieved national recognition for milk yield performance. Between 2016 and 2025, several cows from the farm set national records in milk production, peaking at 82 kilograms in 24 hours. These achievements not only demonstrate genetic and nutritional optimization but also underscore the farm’s operational excellence.
Generational Succession and Future Vision
Succession planning is underway, with Harpreet Singh’s son, Onkar Arwind Singh, preparing to take over the enterprise. Currently pursuing a Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (BVSc & AH) degree, Onkar brings academic expertise that complements his practical knowledge. The long-term vision includes scaling the herd to 2,000+ animals and entering the value-added segment with packaged dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, and cheese.
Planned future investments include setting up a milk processing unit and further automating feeding and health monitoring systems. These developments are expected to support vertical integration, diversify income streams, and enhance the farm’s competitiveness in regional and national dairy markets.
Conclusion
Onkar Dairy Farm illustrates how small-scale dairy operations in India can evolve into large, efficient, and sustainable enterprises through strategic development, economic resilience, and effective succession planning. As the next generation takes the helm, the farm is well-positioned to become a leading player in India’s value-added dairy sector, combining traditional practices with modern agricultural innovation.
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