Gangolihat: In the remote villages of Gangolihat block in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh district, a silent dairy revolution has transformed the lives of women. Spearheaded by the Himalayan Gram Vikas Samiti (HGVS), this dairy cooperative movement has turned small savings into a sustainable business, economically and socially empowering women.
Until a few years ago, women in villages like Footsil in Gangolihat block were confined to household chores and labor-intensive tasks. Women like Munni Devi tended to cows, but the milk produced was barely sufficient for family needs. Selling milk was uncommon due to social stigmas and lack of market access. Fetching water and other demanding tasks left little time for income-generating activities.
Established on December 20, 1991, the Himalayan Gram Vikas Samiti began its journey with the motto “Jagare Pahad” (Awaken the Hills), focusing on rural development through sanitation, drinking water, and social awareness. In 2005, the organization shifted its focus toward women’s economic empowerment by forming Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
In Footsil, the first SHG started with nine women, each contributing ₹100 monthly. These savings were used to provide small loans to members for their needs, which were repaid regularly. Gradually, similar groups emerged in other villages. As one woman noted, “As our savings grew, we even distributed share capital among ourselves.”
Footsil Dairy Cooperative
Inspired by an existing cooperative dairy in Gangolihat, 301 women from Footsil decided to establish their own dairy. With HGVS’s support, the Footsil Dairy Cooperative was launched on April 1, 2014. On its first day, it collected just one liter of milk.
Convincing women to sell milk to the dairy was challenging. Many sold milk in local markets, but the earnings often went to their husbands. HGVS addressed this by facilitating bank accounts for the women. “Bring your milk to the dairy, and we’ll open an account for you,” a group member explained. This ensured that women received their earnings directly, fostering financial independence.
Rapid Growth
Within months, milk collection surged from one liter to 80–100 liters daily. The cooperative encouraged women to rear improved breeds of cows and buffaloes. To address fodder shortages, HGVS introduced oat grass cultivation, which women grew on their fields, saving time and boosting productivity.
The dairy cooperative brought profound changes to the villages. Women like Munni Devi used their earnings to educate their children. One of her sons secured a government job, while others pursued higher education. Many families began rearing two buffaloes, increasing their income. Munni remarked, “The real money is what we earn ourselves.”
Social Impact
By March 2025, the cooperative had generated ₹1.48 crore in revenue. Women are now building homes, buying jewelry, and saving ₹1–2 lakh in their accounts. Socially, the transformation is remarkable. Women who once stayed confined to their homes now handle bank transactions and participate in community activities. Surplus milk is converted into paneer during winters, generating additional income.
Challenges
Despite its success, the cooperative faces challenges. Gangolihat’s remote location makes market access difficult, and transportation remains a significant hurdle. Milk is sold at ₹50 per liter, comparable to urban markets like Haldwani, but the superior quality of Himalayan milk warrants a higher price. HGVS is working on better branding and marketing to address this.
Retaining youth in the initiative is another challenge. HGVS advocates for incentives for productive work over free ration schemes to ensure the cooperative’s long-term sustainability.
A Model for Rural Development
The Gangolihat dairy cooperative is a unique model of women’s empowerment and rural development. From a single liter of milk in 2014, it has grown into a business generating crores in revenue. The journey has been fraught with challenges, but collective effort and institutional support have made it possible.
These women are not only breaking stereotypes but also inspiring other rural communities. With improved market access, branding, and incentives, Gangolihat’s dairy revolution could pave the way for a brighter future in the Himalayas.
