DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY AND LADAKH OMA ORGANISE ORIENTATION PROGRAMME ON DAIRY DEVELOPMENT.

LEH: An orientation programme regarding “Dairy Development” in Ladakh was held on 18th of July 2026, under the chairmanship of Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Sh. Rudra Gaud P.T, IAS, in the Animal Husbandry Campus Leh. The orientation programme cum meeting was attended by Director, Animal Husbandry, Departmental officers, technical field officials, and senior representatives from Ladakh Oma (Ladakh Milk Federation).
Addressing the meeting, the Secretary called upon all officers and field staff to work in coordination with “Ladakh Oma” to strengthen rural livelihoods and elevate the economic status of local farmers.
Currently, the existing milk plant in Leh operates at full capacity, processing over 8,000 litres per day with 90% supplied directly to the Indian Army with Fresh Curd and Paneer being made available in the market. Over 1,800 dairy farmers are presently associated with Ladakh Oma, generating a monthly turnover of approximately Rs 1.30 Crore transferred directly to farmers via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Many progressive dairy farmers are earning over Rs 1,00,000 monthly, while the average farmer income ranges between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000 per month, making a decent sustainable income. Secretary suggested that many educated and interested unemployed youth can utilise this opportunity. The Secretary directed both the Department of Animal Husbandry and Ladakh Oma to work in joint collaboration and organize awareness camps, and ensure uninterrupted supply of feed, fodder, and medicines. Emphasizing the directions of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor to double livestock numbers and milk production, the Secretary stated that the formal framework for Mission Dairy Development is being drafted. Furthermore, monthly joint scientific training sessions will be started for field staff and farmers to promote scientific animal husbandry practices. The Secretary concluded by directing officials to hold regular sensitization programmes to improve overall livestock management and dairy productivity across the Union Territory.