Tirupati, September 12, 2025 — Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, visited the Shreeja Mahila Milk Producer Organisation in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. During his visit, the Minister engaged closely with women-led dairy entrepreneurs and reviewed the organisation’s operational structure and impact.
The Shreeja Milk Organisation, operated entirely by women, has been widely recognised for creating livelihood opportunities in the dairy sector across rural Andhra Pradesh. It stands as a pioneering model in India’s cooperative dairy ecosystem, showcasing the potential of women-led enterprises in transforming local economies.
Minister Baghel was given a tour of the production facilities and briefed on the daily operations, member engagement, milk procurement processes, and financial inclusion efforts spearheaded by Shreeja. He expressed admiration for the transparent, cooperative-led business model that has enabled thousands of women to achieve financial independence.
Felicitates’ Lakhpathi Didis’
As part of the visit, Minister Baghel felicitated several members of the organisation known as “Lakhpathi Didis”—women entrepreneurs who have crossed key financial milestones through consistent earnings from dairy activities. Their success is viewed as a testament to the strength of collective rural enterprise, supported by training, market access, and institutional backing.
He commended their achievements and noted their significant contribution to rural economic transformation, saying their stories highlight the critical role of women in India’s dairy growth journey.
Recognition of Sustainable Livelihood Efforts
Minister Baghel also lauded Shreeja’s role in fostering sustainable livelihoods, particularly its emphasis on women’s empowerment, community ownership, and climate-conscious dairy practices. He emphasised the importance of such grassroots organisations in building a resilient and inclusive dairy economy, aligning with national goals for rural development and food security.
