BJP MLA alleges exploitation of cattle-keepers and corruption in raw material procurement

Ahead of the annual online general meeting of Baroda Dairy, the largest cooperative sector in the district, on September 15, BJP MLA from Savli Ketan Inamdar has written a letter to the Co-operation Minister alleging exploitation of animal keepers and corruption in the procurement of raw materials by the dairy administration.

Recently, Waghodia MLA Madhu Srivastava had alleged that corruption prevails in Baroda Dairy and now Ketan Inamdar, MLA of Savli, wrote a letter to Ishwarbhai Patel, Minister of Co-operation of Gujarat, questioning the administration of Baroda Dairy. He wrote three letters addressing 14 points regarding the exploitation of cattle keepers and also corruption in the procurement of raw materials.

“Cattle keepers are being exploited in BJP-ruled Baroda Dairy. Members are directly entitled to profits, but Baroda Dairy does not give profit to them. As a result, milk-producing societies are closing down and cattle keepers are losing out, ” mentioned Ketan Inamdar.

In a letter to the Co-operation Minister, the MLA further said that no advance was given to cattle keepers in festivals like Rakshabandhan and others which led to losses for them. At present Baroda Dairy pays Rs. 675 per kg to its members. But, Rs 650 per kg is paid by the cattle keepers. Money is deposited in the Mandali as per Rs. 15 and the same money is given in the amount of exchange. But, the benefit of interest amount is not given to the members. SNF practice is continued and graded where the interest of the members is not maintained.

In the letter, he also alleged that the old price of maize was Rs 455 and recently has been increased to Rs 580, which is causing financial loss to the members. Baroda Dairy buys various raw materials including maize being procured by their own men’s agency. It is important to check if the raw material is adulterated. In addition, he made representations to the Minister of Co-operation on a number of issues pertaining to various members. He also demanded an inquiry into the ongoing mismanagement at Baroda Dairy.