Sakhi MMPC is based in Mewat, a region that has historically faced several political and socio-economic challenges. More than two-thirds of the population earns its livelihood from agriculture, of which over 73% are small and marginal farmers. Small landholdings don’t generate sufficient income, and hence dairy becomes an important source of secondary income for the locals.
To combat these challenges, Sakhi Mahila Milk Producer Company was established in 2016 as a collaboration between Dairy Health and Nutrition Initiative India Foundation and the NDDB Dairy Services (NDS), New Delhi. The aim was to build a sustainable dairy business model that is driven and managed exclusively by dairy farmers.
Growth and Impact
Since 2016, Sakhi Mahila Milk Producer Company has demonstrated impressive growth, expanding from 3,000 members at its inception to over ~85,500 members by february 2025. As of february 2025, the company collects 5.66 lakh kilograms of milk daily.
However, Sakhi’s growth has been more than mere numbers. The biggest success is the meaningful difference that the company could bring in the lives of so many women, who are now dreaming big and marching ahead with confidence.
Starting with Mewat (comprising the Alwar and Bharatpur districts), Sakhi later expanded its reach to Jhunjhunu, Bikaner, Dholpur, Karauli, Bhatinda, Mansa, Sirsa, Fatehabad, Bhind, Morena, and Churu districts in the Shekhawati region. Sakhi’s story is an inspiration for women, especially in rural and remote areas. Had it not been for the courage and dedication of its women members, even the most robust strategies and plans would have failed. Despite numerous challenges and discouragement, Sakhi’s women relentlessly pursued their dream and ultimately achieved what was once considered impossible.
Highlights
- From 64 MPPs in 2016–17 to 2862 MPPs in 8 years.
- A payment of INR 1822 crore has been made to the members since inception.
- 73% of members are small & marginal farmers who own less than 3 milch animals.
- INR 13.30 crore is the share capital till february 2025
- Generated employment for over 3500 peoples.