Early Beginnings
Sri Prasanta Sarma, a farmer from Sandha, Digheli area in Nalbari district, launched his dairy farming venture in 2014 with two cows and a bank loan.
Technical guidance:
Since his initiation of work he is involved with KVK Nalbari, experts from the AAU and Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, GoA for technical guidance. Moreover he took guidance from different Agency through trainings, interactions and other extension means.
Adapting During COVID-19
By end of August, 2014 130 liter milk produced in his farm daily. Before 2019, he sold milk door-to-door and to local hotels. The COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 severely impacted his business as hotels closed and milk demand plummeted. To adapt, Sarma and six other dairy farmers diversified into milk products, starting with paneer. The product's success during the lockdown helped sustain their business, but demand fell as markets reopened.
Diversification and Growth
To meet changing market needs, Sarma’s team invested in new equipment to expand their product range. They began producing sweets like Rosgolla, Gulab Jamun, Peda, and Malai, along with regular and sweet curd and Bundiya. All products were chemical-free and made from natural ingredients. This diversification attracted more customers and led to the establishment of a local sale booth.
Expansion and Employment
The increasing popularity of their products led to orders from neighboring districts and a broader customer base. The shift to milk product manufacturing created new job opportunities, employing three additional workers.
Sustainable Practices
In 2019, Sarma set up a biogas plant using cow dung from his farm. This reduced cylinder costs and generated a profit of Rs. 2,700 per month. The biogas slurry was utilized in his fishery, yielding an annual income of Rs. 60,000. This integrated model showcased the potential for dairy farming to enhance farm income through innovative resource use.
A Model of Success
Sarma’s story highlights the power of adaptability and innovation. By transforming his dairy farm into a diversified and sustainable business, he not only weathered the economic impacts of the lockdown but also contributed significantly to his community’s economic development and job creation. His story is an inspiration to many unemployed youth of the locality.
