Objective: An attempt was made to study seasonal availability and utilization pattern of fluid milk in Nainital district of Uttarakhand.
Statistical Analysis: The study was based on the primary data collected for liquid/processed milk varieties and milk products from the selected co-operative dairy plant of Nainital district. The pattern of utilization of milk in the manufacturing of product mix percentage was computed for various products after making an adjustment of loss of milk in transit, handling etc.
Findings: Three distinct seasons in a year were observed. It has been found that there were three sources of milk to plant viz., primary co-operative societies, the State Milk Grid and the milk reconstituted at the plant from powder milk. Standardized milk and dahi was the major product for the plant. The study has observed that out of the total availability of milk more than 80 percent of milk was used for processed milk varieties and rest will be used for making different milk products. The study concluded that production was affected by calving season and weather condition. Further, there was no definite pattern observed in the production of milk and milk products. Its production mainly depends upon the local demand for dairy products.
Improvements: The study has suggested that development of co-operative dairy industry in a sustainable manner, the co-operative dairy plants should formulate long-term vision and strategy.