Revival of Ghungoor Dairy Processing Unit in Silchar: A New Era for Milk Production

Revitalization of Ghungoor Dairy Plant
Silchar, June 21: The Ghungoor dairy processing facility in Silchar, which has been inactive for years, is on the verge of a significant revival thanks to a new initiative by the Assam government aimed at enhancing dairy infrastructure. This once-thriving plant is set to transform into the largest milk processing center in southern Assam.
Established in 1981 and inaugurated on August 4, 1983, by former Chief Minister Hiteshwar Saikia, the Ghungoor facility was capable of processing 5,000 liters of milk daily, contributing significantly to the nutrition and dairy economy of the Barak Valley. However, operations ceased in 2017, leaving the plant dormant and overlooked.
Plans are now underway to modernize the facility. According to Krishnendu Paul, the Minister for Public Works (Roads), Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries, the initial phase will enhance the plant's capacity to process 20,000 liters of milk per day, with future expansions aiming for an impressive 100,000 liters daily, positioning it as a major player in the region's dairy sector.
The revival effort is being spearheaded by Northeastern Dairy and Food Limited (NEDFL) in partnership with the West Assam Milk Producers’ Cooperative Union Limited (WAMUL), known for its popular Purabi brand.
This cooperative approach is crucial to the project, promoting transparency, fair pricing, and empowering local farmers.
“This dairy facility represents more than just milk processing; it symbolizes renewed hope, job creation for rural youth, and a self-sufficient Barak Valley,” Minister Paul stated in a recent interview. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the Chief Minister’s vision for rural empowerment through agricultural infrastructure.
Thousands of dairy farmers from Cachar, Karimganj, and Hailakandi districts, who have faced challenges with inconsistent markets and post-harvest losses, are anticipated to gain from this development.
The new facility will offer a modern processing option that minimizes milk spoilage and ensures better financial returns for farmers.
Additionally, it is expected to generate hundreds of direct and indirect employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas where youth unemployment is a pressing issue.
The cooperative model implemented by WAMUL guarantees farmer-focused milk collection, stringent quality control, and a reliable cold chain system.
Recently, Minister Paul visited the site with key officials, including Anil Chandra Deori (ACS), Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Assam; Satyabrata Bose, MD of NEDFL; S.K. Parida, MD of WAMUL; and local MLAs Dipayan Chakraborty (Silchar) and Nihar Ranjan Das (Dholai). This visit was part of the final planning and evaluation phase.
The Minister confirmed that production is set to commence in September 2025, starting with a capacity of 20,000 liters daily, gradually increasing to the ambitious target of 100,000 liters per day.