A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today between the Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Department, Government of Manipur, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Government of India, and the Manipur Milk Producers’ Co-operative Union Ltd. The signing took place at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in the presence of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Veterinary & A.H. Minister Shri Khashim Vashum.

The MoU facilitates the transfer of management of the Manipur Milk Producers’ Co-operative Union Ltd. to NDDB, aiming to enhance milk production in the state. Representing the Government of Manipur, Secretary (Veterinary & A.H) Shri Michael Achom signed the agreement, while NDDB Chairman Dr. Meenesh Shah and Member, Board of Administration Shri Pukhrambam Sobhachandra Singh represented NDDB and the Manipur Milk Producers’ Co-operative Union Ltd., respectively.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh welcomed the development, calling it a long-awaited initiative. Highlighting Manipur’s high demand for milk, he emphasized its importance, particularly for athletes. He expressed confidence that NDDB’s involvement would lead to increased milk production in the state. The Chief Minister also stressed the need for developing grazing grounds and urged NDDB to identify suitable locations in consultation with local farmers. He assured the government’s full support in boosting dairy production.

Delivering the keynote address, NDDB Chairman Dr. Meenesh Shah spoke about India’s dairy revolution through Operation Flood, which transformed the country into the world’s largest milk producer. He noted that India currently produces over 239 million metric tons of milk, contributing 4-5% to the Gross Domestic Product. Dr. Shah reaffirmed NDDB’s commitment to the development of the dairy sector in Northeast India, clarifying that the Board’s role would be purely developmental rather than commercial.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Power Minister Th. Biswajit Singh, Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam, CAF & PD Minister L. Susindro Meitei, several MLAs, representatives of NDDB and Manipur Milk Producers’ Co-operative Union Ltd., and senior government officials.