In Chhukha’s Darla Gewog, a group of farmers are expanding their dairy business. The Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen celebrates the opening of its very own sales outlet and milk processing unit, marking a new chapter in its journey of success. The group took the initiative owing to increasing milk production.
It is a proud moment for the members of Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen as they open the sales outlet and the milk processing unit.
From the amount of money, the group saved, they spent nearly eight hundred thousand ngultrum to renovate this old office structure and expand their business.
Over a decade ago, the group started by collecting just about 100 litres of milk daily. Today, they collect 1,500 litres.
In addition to meeting local demand, their products are also sent to Thimphu.
The day marks another story of success as they venture into producing yoghurt and paneer aside from butter and cheese.
Bal Kumar Samal, Chairperson of Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen said “We sold only butter and cheese. But now the milk production has increased a lot. We will now start the production of yoghurt, paneer, rasgula and ice cream. The district administration has supported us with the relevant training.”
Tej Bdr Chhetri, Member of Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen said “We have been working hard. We produced only some dairy products in the past. People had to walk long distances and fetched low prices. We got support from the government and people have been able to purchase high-breed milking cows.”
Sherab Tenzin, Chief District Livestock Officer said “People work hard and have been able to earn. From the little amount the group earned, they have been able to stand on their feet today. This is exemplary and we appreciate it a lot. We will continue to support them with training and all.”
Market has not been an issue for them. However, they are planning to come up with sustainable market strategies.
Rinchen Dorji, Darla Gup said “We are sending the products to Thimphu and Phuentshogling. But we are concerned about sustainability as there have been incidences when our people could not get money on time. Therefore, we are planning to open our counter in Thimphu and Phuentshogling.”
Darla in Chhukha is one of the leading gewogs in dairy farming in the district and produces thousands of litres of milk every day.
Kinley Dem
