Bareilly: The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, under its Farmer First Project, successfully organized a five-day training program on “Milk Processing and Value Addition” from March 9–13, 2026. The program was jointly conducted by the Department of Animal Genetics and the Department of Livestock Product Technology, with 12 farmers and dairy producers from Gram Katkarman actively participating. The training aimed to equip participants with scientific knowledge of milk and dairy product processing, value addition, and marketing techniques to enhance profitability in their dairy enterprises.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Roopsi Tiwari, Joint Director (Extension Education), IVRI, as the chief guest. She emphasized the importance of proper packaging, labeling, and marketing of dairy products, highlighting how modern digital tools and ICT technologies can help farmers reach wider markets. Dr. Tiwari encouraged the adoption of scientific methods and new technologies to improve product quality, increase market demand, boost sales, and enhance farmers’ income. She also urged participants to work collaboratively for greater impact.
Dr. Subodh Kumar, Head of the Department of Animal Genetics and special guest, discussed the significance of selecting high-yielding livestock breeds in dairy farming. He noted that retaining low-producing animals reduces profitability and advised farmers to adopt scientific breeding and herd management practices to improve productivity.
Dr. A.R. Sen, Head of the Department of Livestock Product Technology and Course Director, highlighted the importance of hygienic milk production and optimal utilization of milk and dairy products. He encouraged participants to apply the skills gained during training to strengthen their dairy businesses, emphasizing that dairy production and processing can contribute to economic empowerment while creating opportunities for new entrepreneurs.
Dr. Ashwani Kumar Pandey, Principal Investigator of the Farmer First Project and Chief Scientist, outlined the objectives of the project and stressed the significance of value addition and effective marketing in making dairy farming more profitable.
During the program, Dr. Devendra Kumar, Course Coordinator, presented the training framework, explaining that home-scale and small-scale milk processing can generate new livelihood opportunities for farmers and rural women. Participants received both theoretical and practical training on topics including hygienic milk production, quality testing, collection and transportation, primary processing, production of value-added dairy products, and utilization of by-products.
The program concluded with Dr. Ashwani Kumar Pandey expressing gratitude to all guests, participants, and organizers. Scientists from the Farmer First Project and staff from the Department of Livestock Product Technology were also present.
Reported from Bareilly by Akhilesh Chandra Saxena
