Patiala, April 1: Milk producers in the districts of Patiala and Fatehgarh Sahib will receive enhanced payments starting Wednesday following Verka’s decision to raise procurement prices by Rs 20 per kg fat. The cooperative announced the adjustment as part of its ongoing commitment to the dairy farming community, particularly in the face of evolving market demands.
Officials from the Patiala Verka Milk Plant stated that the hike applies to both cow and buffalo milk categories. Dr. Amit Garg, the plant’s General Manager, asserted that the increased rates are designed to make dairy farming a more viable and attractive profession for the younger generation in Punjab. Despite the increased payout to farmers, the cooperative confirmed that there would be no immediate hike in the market price of Verka milk packets or other dairy items.
In addition to the financial incentive, the federation highlighted its extensive support system for member farmers. “Verka also provides several technical services to dairy farmers,” Dr. Garg noted, mentioning the provision of green fodder seeds, imported semen on subsidy, and essential cooling and ventilation equipment for cattle sheds.
The cooperative emphasized its dual role in the state’s economy—acting as a support pillar for rural producers while serving as a reliable supplier of fresh dairy for urban centers. Dr. Garg appealed to independent farmers to join the cooperative fold to maximize the benefits of these technical and financial initiatives, maintaining that the organization would continue to prioritize quality and farmer welfare in its future operations.
