A Report on the National Seminar at Vikram University, 4-5 July 2025, Ujjain, MP under the aegis of IDA (WZ)
A Defining Moment for Dairy in Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh’s dairy sector stands at the cusp of transformation. With robust livestock resources, a strong cooperative backbone, and government intent aligning with institutional expertise, the stage is set for a dairy renaissance in the heart of India. In this backdrop, the National Seminar on Dairy Development in Madhya Pradesh – Opportunities & Challenges was convened in Ujjain on 4th–5th July 2025, jointly by Indian Dairy Association (West Zone) and Vikram University.
The seminar sought to serve as a multi-stakeholder platform aimed at knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, industry-academia collaboration, and farmer empowerment and was attended by 350+ delegates from dairy industry, academia, farmer organizations, students, technocrats, and policymakers. Themed around the emerging possibilities in dairy, the event was also aligned with the broader vision of making Madhya Pradesh a significant contributor to India’s dairy economy.
Inaugural Session: A Promising Beginning
The event commenced with a traditional invocation and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Dignitaries and esteemed guests were felicitated for their contribution to the dairy ecosystem.
Dr. Arpan Bhardwaj, Hon. Vice Chancellor of Vikram University, welcomed the gathering with a visionary address, reiterating the university’s commitment to support dairy development through education and innovation.
Dr. J.B. Prajapati, Chairman of IDA (West Zone), Mumbai, outlined the objectives of the seminar, stressing the role of collaboration between stakeholders in advancing dairy in MP. He also stressed on importance of dairy education and public awareness about the role of dairy in nutrition, public health and social well-being.
Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Commissioner of Ujjain Division and Guest of Honour, emphasized the importance of integrating farmer-centric technologies and inclusive policy frameworks.
Shri Anil Jain Kaluheda, MLA, Ujjain, the Chief Guest presented the dairy potential of MP and highlighted the commitment of government to make MP as Dairy Capital of India.
The inaugural session was concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Shri Madhav Patgaonkar, Secretary, IDA (WZ), acknowledging the unwavering support of sponsors and collaborators.
The two-day seminar witnessed vibrant deliberations across multiple thematic tracks:
Session I: Animal Husbandry, Smart Dairy Farming & Government Policies under the chairmanship of dr. Alok Juneja (BAIF)
This session delved into the role of genetics, nutrition, and preventive veterinary care in improving productivity. Emphasis was laid on sustainable practices, breed improvement, and the importance of timely interventions. Discussions included how AI-powered herd monitoring systems and IoT-enabled sensors can revolutionize dairy farming in the state.
Policy experts also shared insights on central and state schemes aimed at dairy growth, highlighting the recent partnership between Government of MP and NDDB for strengthening the State Dairy Federation (Sanchi).
A key highlight of the seminar was the heartfelt and impactful address by Dr. Chandrakant Sant, who brought the focus back to the grassroots — the farmer and the cow. In a session that resonated deeply with the farmer participants, Dr. Sant shared simple, actionable tips on how farmers can take better care of their cattle. He explained that healthy and happy animals are the foundation of a profitable dairy enterprise. He emphasized that; 1. Regular health check-ups, 2. Balanced feeding, 3. Clean living conditions, and 4. Humane handling are not just good practices but are also smart economic decisions. Investing time and effort in the well-being of animals translates directly into higher milk yields, better reproductive performance, and ultimately improved incomes for the farmers.
Dr Pawan Patidar, State Head, MP BAIF highlighted initiatives of BAIF in MP for improving productivity and improving farm management practices.
Mr Mangalbhai Chaudhary, GM, Anik-Lactalis shared his experience in milk procurement, farming and work at Anik dairy.
Shri Ram Chandra Chaudhary, Chairman, Ajmer Milk Union emphasised on the need to castrating street bulls and following breeding only by proven genetic potential. He narrated success story of Ajmer Union.
Session II: Dairy Industry Experience sharing (Part1) Under the chairmanship of Dr. JV Parekh Vice Chairman IDA(WZ)
Industries in the state of Madhya Pradesh were given opportunities to share their experience. The companies like Mr. Rahul Thakur MD of Siddhi Vinayak Milk Products explained their procurement product processing and market share etc.
Mr Goyal MD of Shubham Food leading private brand in Indore/Ujjain area having brand Srimant explained the challenges in the market and launch of Tea in tetra pack a unique product in India.
M/S Pawanshree Foods a Shridhi milk brand also shared their experiences through presentation.
Mr. Manoj Tomar GM of Panchmahal Dist. Mikk union, Ujjain Union, presented how Amul is procuring milk up to 2.5 LLPD and the processing etc. He also explained that major Amul products including Ice-cream are manufactured in this plant for the consumers of Madhya Pradesh.
Mr. Dhanraj Khatri CEO of Ujjain Dudh Sangh presented the how Union is working after taken over by NDDB and particularly told that now under the management of NDDB they have assured the milk payment to farmers after every 10 days. Also, he shared That strong marketing practices will be implemented to increase the sale and confidence of the consumers.
III Session: Dairy Industry Experience sharing (Part1) Under the chairmanship of Sri Arun Patil Vice President IDA New Delhi
Mr. Sachin Patil of Delaval presented how farm of 5,10,50,200 + cows are established and automation scale to optimise the cost of operation. The entire value chain of the farms was shared to the audience.
Mr Thomson of the Duke Thomson India Ltd presented about his company and testing equipment and the latest requirement of the Dairy industry. He shared how is to be determine testing of Hygiene level in few seconds. Shared the latest laboratory testing machines.
Mr. Jadhav of Aamikza Biotechnology a new Startups from Pune shared the new culture developed Culture for Curd like home made. He presented the benefits of his culture verses the present competitor’s culture with research done towards this.
Mr. Shah of Ice Make Refrigerator presented how they started their business to listed and leading company in the business of cold chain equipment’s and refrigeration’s. He also Shared that they are taking contracts of turn key projects from end to end working with Amul
M/S Benny impex a leading Indian company also presented their products and the testing equipment’s. They also shared how accurate results are getting for adulterations, protein etc.
All above company have taken stall and presented their products and all farmers, students delegates got knowledge about them. The session served as a robust showcase of how modern technologies can not only ensure efficiency but also enhance milk quality and farmer profitability.
IV Session: Public awareness Program on roll of Dairy Nutrition, Health& Livelihood the chairmanship of Mr. K Shyju Vice Chairman Of IDA(WZ)
This session was specially designed for the increasing awareness about dairy products in the society. Apart from delegates, a group of doctors, students and other opinion makers from the society were invited to attend this session.
Dr. JB Prajapati Chairman IDA (WZ) presented about opinion makers, the goodness of milk, role of milk in nutrition, tackle the problem of mal-nutrition and the health aspects of milk. He appealed to all to help in breaking confusions created by plant based and vegan lobbies in the society. He spoke about the research of Dr. Mohan and shared that milk is not responsible for diabetes but it helps to control it.
Dr. K D Aparanti Ex Head DC Head AAU Anand gave very good and eye-opening presentation about the milk protein and other sources of protein, its chemistry and the benefits. He explained Milk Vs plant-based beverages their composition which showed clear benefits of milk protein. The information about DIASS of common food proteins by him showed how proteins from only milk is good source at desired value that any other food material. They pointed out that the value of dairy is not merely a cultural legacy passed down from one generation to another, but one that is strongly backed by scientific research. Citing studies and nutritional evidence, both experts highlighted milk’s role in supporting growth, immunity, cognitive development, and overall health—especially critical in today’s era of rising health fads and misinformation.
Mr. Kuldeep Sharma A leading speaker on the Dairy industry happenings in India spoke about today’s global discourse focusing on sustainability, nutrition, and livelihoods, the dairy industry, a cornerstone of our food system, faces intense scrutiny both internally and externally. While external criticisms label dairy as “cruel” or “unnatural,” it is concerning that individuals within the industry often perpetuate these narratives through discussions and shares. He appealed to all about appeal to the dairy industry, urging stakeholders to recognize livestock as a central pillar of the sector. He emphasized the need to view all dairy development programs from the perspective of the cow, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable approach to growth.
Dr. Sarang Phophaly of Dairy Science College Raipur presented the requirements of HAACP, ISO. He presentations covered all SOPs to ensure food safety and the requirements of Global dairy Industry.
V Session: Dairy Education, HR Development, Training needs Under the chairmanship of Dr RRB Singh Vice Chancellor K.U Durg University
Dr Bimlesh Mann, ADG, ICAR highlighted the new education policy and place of Dairy education in that. This forward-looking session addressed the critical need for skilled human capital in dairy. She also shared the colleges of dairy technology in India and the admission processes and the ICAR initiatives and its policies
Dr. Sudhir Uprit, Dean dairy science College Raipur presented about introduction of a B.Tech. course in Dairy Technology at Vikram University – the first of its kind in MP – was hailed as a historic step. He also spoke about the New Education Policy encourages industry-academia linkages and outcome-based learning, preparing students for real-world challenges. He also emphasised the need & requirement of dairy technologist in Madhya Pradesh looking at the Governments expansion plan.
Mr Divyesh Chouhan of Vidya Dairy explain about the Dairy plant, how it is run by the BTech students of Dairy Science college Anand, the capacity, product portfolio and the courses offered to all dairy industry sector.
Dr. Pranali Nikam of Dairy Science College Raipur gave her presentation on the testing of adulteration. She also shared the latest developed a paper strip which can test 6 adulteration tests in seconds. This is very cost effective and good for consumers.
The session received resounding appreciation for rekindling public trust in milk, especially among students and youth attendees, and added a deeply human and nutritional dimension to the otherwise industry-focused discourse.
The launch of dairy-specific programs is expected to bridge the talent gap, offering fresh opportunities for the youth in production, processing, quality assurance, and marketing roles.
Valedictory Session: Charting the Way Forward
The closing session was presided over by a panel of distinguished leaders:
- Sabhapati Kalavati Yadav,Chief Guest
- J.B. Prajapati, Chairman, IDA (WZ)
- Arpan Bhardwaj, Hon. Vice Chancellor, Vikram University
- Arun Patil, Vice President, IDA
- JR Daruwala, Organizing Secretary
- Madhav Patgaonkar, Secretary, IDA (WZ)
- Dr. Kamlesh Dashora, Vikram University
Sabhapati Kalavati Yadav, in an inspiring address, envisioned Ujjain becoming the “Milk Capital of Madhya Pradesh,” drawing parallels with Indore’s national recognition in cleanliness.
In his remarks, Dr. Arpan Bhardwaj reaffirmed the university’s commitment to expanding its offerings in Dairy Science and allied fields, laying the foundation for future-ready education and research in MP.
The organizing committee gratefully acknowledged the generous support from the sponsors whose contributions enabled rich discourse, live demonstrations, and impactful networking opportunities across the seminar.
The Ujjain seminar was more than a conference — it was a clarion call for unified action. With Vikram University setting a new precedent in dairy education, and IDA (WZ) fostering industry-wide collaboration, the foundation for Madhya Pradesh’s dairy revolution has been firmly laid.
The journey from potential to performance begins now. And as echoed by many during the event — “With the right direction, Madhya Pradesh can be the dairy powerhouse India needs.”
Source : Dairynews7x7 July 13th 2025 Press release IDA west Zone