In a significant move to strengthen Jharkhand’s rural economy and boost self-reliance in dairy production, Chief Minister Hemant Soren laid the foundation stone of the Medha Milk Powder Plant under the Jharkhand Milk Federation in Ranchi on Friday. Addressing a large gathering of farmers from across the state, the Chief Minister made a passionate appeal for embracing agriculture and animal husbandry as profitable, respectable, and future-ready occupations.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Soren stated that farming and animal husbandry rarely result in losses, unlike other industries, and called on youth to take up agriculture with pride and commitment.
“People often migrate or look for other jobs thinking farming is a laborious task. But the truth is, farming and animal husbandry are consistent sources of income if done scientifically and with support,” he said.
Quoting the example of former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the CM remarked, “If an international cricketer can farm and export produce worldwide, why can’t our youth do the same?”
The Chief Minister outlined several ongoing government schemes aimed at improving farmer livelihoods and enhancing self-reliance in the rural economy. These include:Procurement of paddy and milk by the government to ensure fair prices for produce. Livestock insurance schemes to cover losses arising from animal deaths or diseases.
Subsidized distribution of seeds, fertilizers, and fodder under various state programs. “Today, the state is not only supporting farmers in production but also ensuring that their products are bought at the right price,” said Soren.
Looking to the future, the Chief Minister shared the government’s ambitious plan to make Jharkhand self-sufficient in milk, fish, and poultry production over the next five to seven years. He noted that the dairy sector, in particular, has immense potential for employment generation and rural income.
The Medha Milk Powder Plant is a milestone project under this vision, intended to enhance the processing and storage capacity of milk and help eliminate dependence on external sources for dairy needs.
The CM highlighted that the state is working on a grassroots expansion of milk collection centers, aiming to establish infrastructure at the block and panchayat levels. This, he said, would make it easier for small and marginal farmers to sell their milk locally and gain fair returns.
“Very soon, you won’t have to travel far to sell milk. The network will come to your village,” he added.
Expressing concern over the availability of adulterated khoya and paneer in the market, the Chief Minister said that promoting quality dairy production within Jharkhand is essential not just for economic reasons, but also for public health. “Why should our people consume fake products when our own farmers can produce better?” he questioned.
Hemant Soren reaffirmed that the government is directly procuring paddy, milk, and vegetables from farmers, cutting out middlemen and ensuring better income for producers. He urged farmers to take full advantage of government-run programs and move confidently toward economic independence.
“The state stands with you at every step—be it insurance, procurement, training, or technology. Our goal is simple: increase your income and secure your future,” he said, concluding his speech to enthusiastic applause from the assembled farmers.
The foundation stone of the Medha Milk Powder Plant symbolizes more than just infrastructure—it reflects a broader strategy to revitalize Jharkhand’s agrarian economy. With focused leadership and people-centric policies, the government aims to transform farming and animal husbandry into aspirational and sustainable careers, especially for the younger generation.
The event concluded with cultural performances by local artists and interaction sessions between farmers and officials from the Jharkhand Milk Federation.