Herald: SUMUL is accused of attempting to kill the existing Goa Dairy with its entry into Goa. How do you react to this allegation?
Jayesh Desai: Our entry will ensure healthy competition in terms of services, quality of milk and its price. When we started marketing in Goa, the farmers had approached the Goa government about SUMUL procuring milk from them. We initially marketed 8,000 litres of milk daily in the State to increase it to 30,000 liters per day. We subsequently applied for procurement of milk with the government in September 2013, only to get permission just recently after assuring to abide by all the conditions imposed by it. We are not here to harm any milk cooperative society or agency. The dairy farmers will benefit. It is a win-win situation for all of us, including Goa Dairy.
Herald: With permission already granted to start the business in Goa, how many dairy farmers have been enrolled with SUMUL so far?
Desai: First, we had to clear the misunderstanding created by certain sections which we believe we have succeeded in doing. We have already begun a survey for the procurement process and formed self help groups (SHG) in 3 or 4 villages. The SHGs comprise of dairy farmers. We should begin with the main task in the next 10 days. For now, we are in the process of installing a bulk milk cooler, weighing machine, fat testing machine, adulteration testing machine and other equipment.
Herald: The Goa Dairy has alleged that SUMUL will be a loss for the dairy business. How does SUMUL dairy justify its stand?
Desai: The allegation is completely baseless. The Goa Dairy farmers will instead benefit through our various schemes and better price. We will sell only quality milk and offer the best price for that milk. We have not done any comparison with Goa Dairy nor are bothered about Goan politics. If Goa Dairy feels the pinch with our existence, it is not our problem.
Herald: Will SUMUL contest Goa Dairy if the latter moves the court challenging the former in Goa?
Desai: We will definitely do so. In fact, the Goa government should contest the matter in the court because we are operating based on its permission.
