Kerala’s dairy sector boosts capacity with Edappally expansion

INDIA – Kerala’s dairy industry has announced the expansion of the Edappally Products Dairy, a project set to elevate the state’s capacity to meet growing consumer demand.

The expanded facility will enable the production of a wider range of high-quality dairy products, including new ice cream variants, catering to evolving market preferences.

The foundation stone for this expansion was virtually laid by Smt. J Chinchurani, Hon’ble Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, and Milk Cooperatives, during an event held at Ernakulam Dairy.

In her address, she highlighted the transformative impact the project will have on the state’s dairy sector.

Smt. Chinchurani also emphasized the importance of the Central Quality Control Laboratory at Edappally, which will now be managed by NDDB CALF Ltd.

“This collaboration will enhance food safety and quality standards, reinforcing consumer trust in Kerala’s dairy products.”

Additionally, she lauded the solar-powered transformation of MILMA’s Thrippunithura Dairy, calling it a testament to sustainable practices and the industry’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

The event also witnessed a symbolic handover of operations of Milma’s Central Quality Control Lab to NDDB CALF Ltd. Dr. Meenesh Shah, Chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), received the operational keys from Shri K.S. Mani, Chairman of Milma.

This handover established the lab as a regional center of excellence, adhering to global quality benchmarks.

Dr. Shah highlighted the day’s three major milestones: the expansion of Edappally Products Dairy, the inauguration of a 2 MW solar power plant at Ernakulam Dairy, and the transfer of the quality control lab’s operations.

He underscored NDDB’s commitment to sustainable dairy practices, aligning with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 through renewable energy initiatives like solar power and biogas.

The NDDB Chairman also noted NDDB’s ongoing support for Kerala’s dairy sector. This includes financial aid to Ernakulam Milk Union, with a grant of ₹296.72 lakh and an interest-free loan of ₹490.50 lakh.

These funds have bolstered projects such as the strengthening of Kottayam Dairy, enhancing its capacity to process and distribute packaged milk.

Dr. Shah further spotlighted the Rabies Free Kerala initiative by Indian Immunologicals Ltd., a subsidiary of NDDB, which aims to eliminate rabies through mass dog vaccination and public awareness.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.