Women-led Milk Cooperatives set to revive rural economy in Punjab
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur, November 11, 2025: The Punjab State Rural Livelihood Mission (PSRLM) is launching women-exclusive milk producer cooperative societies across rural Punjab, with the initiative kicking off in Guru Har Sahai block. Under the guidance of Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Dr. Nidhi Kumud Bambah, self-help groups of women will establish village-level societies named “The Women Milk Producer Cooperative Society” to collect, process, and market milk collectively.
Each society will target a minimum daily collection of 100 liters of milk, with no cap on membership. Villagers, including non-members, can contribute milk, and new women can join even after the society is formed. Verka Milkfed will supply all necessary equipment and ensure daily milk pickup, while also making cattle feed and dairy products available for sale through these societies.
Within 10 days of starting milk collection at the village level, the societies will be formally registered under the Punjab Cooperative Societies Act, 1961, as “[Village Name] Mahila Milk Producer Cooperative Society.” A five-member managing committee will be elected from at least 21 members, with a secretary appointed to handle dairy operations and earn a 3% commission based on milk volume. The society will arrange its own premises and draft bylaws for approval by the Cooperative Department.
The initiative focuses on flood-affected and economically vulnerable areas, where relaxed registration norms will speed up formation. PSRLM will provide interest-free or low-interest loans to SHG members for purchasing milch animals, ensuring sustainable income generation. Block Development and Panchayat Officer Parminder Singh said the cooperatives will play a crucial role in rebuilding livelihoods damaged by natural disasters and economic distress.
Block Programme Manager Baljinder Singh highlighted the broader impact, stating that the model promotes financial independence and community ownership among rural women. The pilot in Guru Har Sahai will soon expand statewide, with officials calling on self-help groups to contact local BDPOs to begin the process.
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