NDDB-managed Mahanand Dairy embarks on modernisation drive with new parlour & packaging upgrade
by Prashant Kapadia/NHN
September 2026, Mumbai: Shri Atul Moreshwar Save, Hon’ble Minister of Dairy Development & Renewable Energy, Government of Maharashtra inaugurated the Mahananad Signature Milk Parlour and Cap Applicator for one-litre Tetra Brik Aseptic UHT milk packs at Mahanand Dairy, Goregaon, Mumbai in the august presence of Dr V Shridhar, Executive Director (IB), NDDB; Shri Prashant Mohod, Commissioner, Dairy Development, Government of Maharashtra; Shri Anil Hatekar, Managing Director, Mahanand Dairy; Dr Pradnya Tayade, Joint Registrar, Cooperative Societies (Dairy), Maharashtra; and other distinguished dignitaries on 1st September 2026, marking a significant step toward modernising packaging technology and enhancing consumer convenience.
“Farmers should increasingly take up allied agricultural activities to supplement their income. Animal husbandry and dairy farming are among the most important avenues through which farmers can strengthen their earnings. Dairy farming can provide farmers with a vital supplementary source of income. Strengthening the dairy sector is therefore important for improving the economic sustainability of farming households. Mahanand has an important role to play in connecting farmers with consumers and ensuring the supply of quality milk to Mumbai and other markets,” said Shri Atul Save, Minister of Dairy Development and Renewable Energy, Govt of Maharashtra.
Speaking on the vital support provided to Mahanand by NDDB, Shri Atul Save said, “A few years ago, Mahanand was facing a difficult financial situation. At that time, under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a meeting was held with Chairman, NDDB and as a result NDDB took over the management of Mahanand. The organisation is now being managed in a much better manner.”
“The expansion of Mahanand dairy parlours across Mumbai and beyond will take quality milk closer to consumers while creating greater opportunities across the dairy value chain. Such initiatives should not remain limited to Mumbai. Mahanand’s network should expand to more locations within Maharashtra so that consumers can access quality milk and farmers can benefit from stronger market linkages,” Shri Atul Save further added.
Dr Meenesh Shah, Chairman, NDDB said that the new parlour has been established under NDDB’s “Revitalising Producers’ Owned Institutions” scheme, which encompasses interventions such as branding, retail infrastructure development, ATL and BTL marketing activities, procurement of cooling assets and other improvements. One of its key components is the development of Mahanand Signature Milk Parlour. The initiative also introduces new milk and milk product variants along with visual identity and brand elements in refreshed packaging, giving Mahanand a more contemporary and progressive presence in the market.
The outlet design, layout and planogram have been meticulously crafted to elevate store aesthetics and enhance the consumer experience. This work has been executed by professionals from the National Institute of Design (NID), India’s premier design institute. The Signature Milk Parlour will serve as a vital consumer touchpoint, offering a modern and engaging experience. With plans to establish several such milk parlours at strategic locations, Mahanand also aims to expand retail presence.
Complementing the transformation of Mahanand’s consumer-facing identity, the Aseptic Dairy Plant at Goregaon, Mumbai has enhanced its packaging capabilities with the installation of a Cap Applicator for one-litre Tetra Brik Aseptic UHT milk packs. UHT milk, processed at high temperature for a short duration and aseptically packed, ensures product safety and extended shelf life without refrigeration until opened. The newly introduced capped format further elevates consumer ease by making the pack easier to handle, pour, reseal and store.
Chairman, NDDB mentioned that this initiative represents a crucial step in modernising Mahanand Dairy’s packaging infrastructure, improving utilisation of its existing plant capacity and broadening the UHT milk product portfolio. By addressing evolving customer preferences in the domestic market, the new capped packaging format not only enhances convenience but also strengthens Mahanand Dairy’s ability to cater to international markets and pursue export opportunities. Financed through an interest-free loan, the project is expected to drive greater asset utilisation, support product diversification and open new avenues for business growth.
Together with the launch of the Mahanand Signature Milk Parlour, this initiative reflects Maharashtra Rajya Sahakari Dudh Mahasangh Maryadit’s (MRSDMM) broader vision of modernisation, consumer-centric innovation and strengthening Mahanand Dairy as a future-ready cooperative brand.