On March 19th, 2024, the second-year B.Sc. Psychology students of St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam, visited the Milma plant in Tripunithura as part of their Value Added Course on Social Entrepreneurship. The purpose of the visit was to give students practical insights into dairy production processes and the functioning of a social enterprise. The students arrived at the Milma factory at 10:00 a.m., accompanied by two faculty members from the Department of Psychology and faculty from Saintgits Institute of Management, Kottayam who are partnering in the VAC.
The visit began with an overview of the factory’s operations and its commitment to sourcing milk from local farmers and other states such as Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. The students learned about key processes such as milk pasteurization, production units, and the product range. They were informed that milk is pasteurized at 72°C for 15 seconds to ensure a longer shelf life while preserving its nutritional value. Different machines are used for separation, milk production, and the creation of ghee and butter. In addition to milk, the factory also produces buttermilk and curd locally. The production of butter, ice cream, and other by-products occurs at the Edappally outlet, with raw materials provided by the Tripunithura outlet.
The students also gained knowledge about the supply chain and partnerships of Milma. The factory receives approximately 30,000 liters of milk daily and compensates farmers for around ₹46 per liter of milk supplied. Milma partners with BMCs not only within Kerala but also from other states to meet demand. The organization also prioritizes the well-being of its employees. Staff members work in shifts, with women working in the morning and men working after that. They undergo three months of training before starting their actual duties and are paid a daily wage of ₹725. In the previous year, the Milma Factory reported a profit of approximately 2 crores, demonstrating its successful operations and financial sustainability.
The industrial visit to the Milma Factory gave the students invaluable insights into dairy production processes, supply chain management, and employee welfare practices. It was an enriching experience that offered practical exposure to the operations of a socially responsible enterprise.