Kochi, Jan 17 (NationPress) Dairy farmers in Kerala need to brace themselves for the second White Revolution initiated by PM Modi, as stated by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian, during an event on Saturday. He emphasized the necessity for institutions like Milma to spearhead efforts in preparing farmers for a more competitive and quality-focused dairy industry.

While inaugurating the NDDB CALF (Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food) Food Testing Laboratory in Kochi, Kurian highlighted that the Prime Minister’s vision for the upcoming phase of dairy development will prioritize quality assurance, value addition, and market competitiveness.

He noted that the establishment of an international-standard testing facility in Kerala is a strategic move for enhancing the state’s dairy economy.

This facility, which was set up at a cost of Rs 8 crore with complete funding from the Central Government, is a collaborative effort between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and Milma, the Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation.

Situated near the Milma Ernakulam Regional Union office at Edappally, this facility has been established as a State Central Laboratory under the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD).

As India advances towards a second White Revolution, Kurian acknowledged the inevitable emergence of healthy competition among dairy cooperatives across various states but expressed optimism that Kerala can lead the way by utilizing its strong institutions, technology, and active farmer involvement.

NDDB Chairman Dr Meenesh C. Shah characterized the CALF laboratory as a significant milestone in fortifying the nation’s food quality and safety framework.

Operating on the same standards and professional practices as premier laboratories nationwide, this facility is expected to enhance trust and technological excellence throughout the dairy value chain.

The laboratory is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited and holds approvals from various agencies, including NABL and FSSAI.

Equipped with state-of-the-art analytical infrastructure and expert scientists, it provides comprehensive testing services for milk and dairy products, covering aspects like microbiology, wet chemistry, residues, and contaminants.

Initially catering to Kerala’s dairy sector, the laboratory will also serve private enterprises and food entrepreneurs. In a phased approach, it plans to expand testing services to include fruits, vegetables, spices, fish, bakery items, ready-to-eat foods, and rice, reaching out to neighboring states.

Beyond testing, the center will organize specialized training programs for cooperative employees, professionals, and students, reinforcing the commitment of NDDB and Milma to science-driven growth, farmer empowerment, and public health protection.