Emerging trend of Dairy based Producer Organizations: Case Studies from Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Dairy farming, in spite of being a major livelihood source in the hilly state of Himachal Pradesh, often faces many issues such as lower price realisation for milk. The organized milk marketing structure of the state is one of the weakest in the country. Lower remunerative returns have affected the attitude of farmers towards dairy farming. As a solution to such problems, innovative farmer organisations are making progress in the state. These organisations offer input services at lower prices at farmers' doorstep. They also buy milk at prices higher than prevailing rates. The reported evidences of dairy interventions through farmer producer organizations are still minimal from this region. The present study assessed the functioning of dairy based producer organisations in hills of Himachal Pradesh. Three farmer producer organizations engaged in community mobilization through Self Help Groups were selected for the study. The benefits accrued by members of these organisations range from input availability, extension advisory, credit support and veterinary services.