Dairy

India’s dairy industry will remain insulated from foreign competition under the evolving trade framework between New Delhi and Washington, according to the Indian Dairy Association. Industry leaders have emphasized that domestic dairy interests—spanning millions of smallholder farmers—are being safeguarded amid broader economic engagement with the United States. The assurance comes at a time when bilateral trade discussions are gaining momentum across multiple sectors.

Amul has welcomed the Union Budget 2026-27, describing it as a timely and strategic boost for India’s dairy sector and cooperative institutions. The budget’s emphasis on rural infrastructure, value-added agriculture, and cooperative-led growth is expected to strengthen milk procurement networks, enhance farmer incomes, and improve supply chain efficiency. Industry leaders believe the policy direction reinforces the cooperative model as a sustainable engine of inclusive growth.

Heritage Foods has welcomed the government’s renewed focus on the dairy sector in the upcoming Union Budget, highlighting its potential to drive rural development and sectoral growth. Officials at the company noted that increased policy support, infrastructure incentives, and credit facilitation could strengthen milk procurement, processing, and distribution networks. The emphasis on dairy aligns with India’s broader goal of enhancing agri-business value chains and ensuring income stability for rural producers.

Manish Bandlish, Managing Director of Mother Dairy, has officially resigned from his position, marking a significant leadership change in one of India’s leading dairy and food processing enterprises. Bandlish’s tenure saw strategic initiatives aimed at expanding dairy operations, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and strengthening consumer engagement across urban and semi-urban markets. The resignation comes at a time when the company is navigating evolving consumer preferences, sustainability challenges, and competitive pressures in the dairy and food sectors.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister has urged Milkfed, the state’s cooperative dairy federation, to enhance its marketing strategies and prioritize quality improvement to strengthen the local dairy industry. He emphasized the importance of building consumer trust through consistent product quality, wider distribution, and efficient branding. The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting dairy farmers, boosting rural incomes, and positioning Milkfed products as a benchmark for purity and reliability.