The recently inaugurated Milk Processing Unit at the Panbang Dairy Cooperative in Zhemgang has proven to be a significant boon for the local dairy farming community. Since its establishment a few years ago, the unit has not only ramped up its production capacity but has also substantially improved the earnings of dairy farmers in Panbang.
The Sonamthang-based Panbang Dairy Cooperative has been thriving since the introduction of its new milk processing unit. Today, this facility is bustling with a diverse range of processed dairy products, making it an exciting addition to the local Panbang market.
The milk processing unit has helped dairy farmers to significantly boost their income through the sale of a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, milk, whey, and paneer, among others.
Dairy farmers in Sonamthang have said they are satisfied with the positive impact this development has had on their livelihoods.
Tsundu, a resident of Sonamthang said, “we’ve seen a significant benefit from this. It’s easy to bring our milk here and sell it without the need to process it at home. Back home, we have to milk the cow and process the milk into butter and cheese, which does not yield much income. Here, the income is better and it helps me cover my and my children’s expenses.”
“The new Milk Processing Unit (MPU) has made things convenient. The previous MPU was in poor condition and had limited production capacity compared to now. Thanks to the support of the livestock department and the improved facilities, we are now reaping immense benefits from it,” said Lungten, a resident of Sonamthang.
According to the cooperative management, the unit collects approximately 220 litres of milk daily from around 30 dairy farmers in Sonamthang and nearby villages.
An official at the facility said that the number of farmers raising cattle has also increased since the establishment of the new milk processing unit.
“We encounter challenges in selling our products, especially during the summer months when we have surplus stock that needs to be stored in the unit. Most of our customers come from the local area and purchase our products during annual pujas, festivals, and other public gatherings here. Occasionally, we also have customers from Thimphu and Zhemgang,” said MPU Member Tsewang.
“Based on the amount of milk they deliver; we pay them around Nu 8,000 or more. Some bring in 15 to 16 litres a day, and for them, we pay around Nu 18 to 19,000, and they are content with it,” added Leki Chogyel, another MPU Member.
The ten-member Panbang Dairy Cooperative has adjusted its operating hours to better accommodate dairy farmers’ schedules.
The new timings extend into the late evening, allowing farmers to focus on their agricultural work during the day.
The construction of the new Milk Processing Unit received support from the Dzongkhag Livestock Sector.
There is now a total of seven MPUs established in Zhemgang.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Sherub Dorji
