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 public-private collaboration between Tata Trusts, Mumbai 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 42,000 members by June 2024. As of June 2024, the company collects 2.36 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.
Started with Mewat (Alwar and Bharatpur Districts) and later expanded to Jhunjhunu and Churu districts of the Shekhawati region, Sakhi’s story is an inspiration for all the women, especially in the rural and remote regions. Had it not been for the courage and dedication of the women members, even the most robust strategies and plans would have failed. Despite all the challenges and discouragement, Sakhi’s women chased the dream and finally achieved what was once considered impossible.
Highlights
- From 64 MPPs in 2016–17 to 1223 MPPs in 8 years.
- A payment of INR 1103 crore has been made to the members since inception.
- 73% of members are small & marginal farmers who own less than 3 milch animals.
- INR 9.20 crore is the share capital till March 2024
- Generated employment for over 1290 peoples.