The Sikkim Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union Ltd. (Sikkim Milk Union) observed the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien—widely honored as the Milk Man of India and the architect of the White Revolution—through a series of commemorative, welfare-oriented, and developmental activities that together reflected his innate power for strengthening India’s dairy cooperative movement.
At the Regional Office, Karfectar, a tribute programme was organised to honour Dr. Kurien’s remarkable contributions. The event began with the lighting of the lamp by the Addl. General Manager, Dr. N. K. Pradhan, followed by an address highlighting Dr. Kurien’s visionary role in transforming India from a milk-deficient nation to the world’s leading milk producer through the cooperative model. Officers and staff members paid their heartfelt respects on the occasion, and sweets were distributed to all attendees as a mark of remembrance and gratitude.
In keeping with Dr. Kurien’s lifelong ideals of compassion, service, and inclusiveness, officers of the Gangtok Unit visited the Mayalmu Old Age Home at Assam Lingzey under Pakyong District. The team interacted warmly with the residents and caretakers, narrating the extraordinary life of Dr. Kurien, including his pioneering work in establishing AMUL, founding the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), and launching Operation Flood, one of the world’s most successful rural development programmes. As a gesture of goodwill, various milk and milk products were distributed to the elderly residents. The visit brought joy and comfort to the home and reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to caring for the elderly as valued members of society while upholding the cooperative values. Dr. Kurien championed.
Parallel to these commemorative activities, the Sikkim Milk Union also undertook a significant capacity-building initiative aimed at empowering dairy farmers across the state. A group of 48 farmers from various Milk Producer Cooperative Societies were sent to the Eastern Regional Demonstration and Training Centre (ERDTC), Matigara, for a comprehensive five-day training programme on Dairy Animal Management from 24th to 28th November 2025. Conducted by ERDTC under the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the training is known for its efficient, practical, and scientifically structured modules designed to enhance the technical skills of farmers. The curriculum covered scientific cattle management, clean milk production, balanced feeding and ration formulation, fodder cultivation, disease prevention and first-aid care, improved animal housing, and hands-on demonstrations that enable farmers to apply modern methods effectively within their dairy units.
The training is expected to significantly strengthen dairy practices at the village level by enhancing milk productivity, improving animal health, reducing losses, and supporting more sustainable farm management systems. By combining community outreach, respectful tribute, and farmer-focused development, the Sikkim Milk Union reaffirmed its resolve to follow the path shown by Dr. Verghese Kurien, by continuously working toward the twin objectives of farmer prosperity and social welfare, ensuring that the benefits of development are shared with all sections of society.
