RS Sodhi Elected as President of Indian Dairy Association

The Managing Director of Amul Federation, R S Sodhi, has been chosen to lead the Indian Dairy Association as its new president (IDA). Dairy cooperatives, multinational corporations, corporate entities, private institutions, educational institutions, and government and public sector units are just a few of the organizations that make up IDA, the leading organization for the Indian dairy industry, which was founded in 1948.

In addition to leading the 18-member dairy organization that produces milk products under the Amul name, Sodhi currently serves on the board of the International Dairy Federation (IDF).

"It is an honour for me to represent the IDA because Dr. Varghese Kurien, my mentor, held the same post in the year 1964, and now I received the opportunity to head this organization after 58 years," Sodhi stated upon being elected as IDA President.

The dairy sector in India, according to him, "is Atmanirbhar and has the potential to become first in the World." With 40 years of expertise in the dairy industry, Sodhi has led Amul for the past 12 years.

About Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation:

Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) is an Indian farmers' cooperative that markets the dairy products of Gujarat's milk cooperatives. It has been a successful business, and its flagship brand Amul has become one of India's most well-known brand names.

Due to supply-side challenges caused by a plateau in milk procurement growth and increased competition in dairy products, GCMMF is considering diversification into processed foods such as juices, jams, and sauces, potentially leveraging its name and brand image. The case discusses the history of GCMMF as well as the characteristics of the dairy and processed foods industries.

The case also describes GCMMF's organizational parameters, allowing for an assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. It concludes with the question of whether to diversify and if so, what the implications are; and if not, what to do about its milk business.