Date of Visit: November 26, 2024 

Institution: Maharishi University of Information Technology, Lucknow 

Company Visited: Parag Dairy Limited, Sultanpur Road Lucknow

1. Introduction

On November 26, 2024, a group of management students from Maharishi School of Business Management, Maharishi University of Information Technology, Lucknow, visited the Parag Dairy, located on Sultanpur Road as part of our academic learning to understand the practical aspects of the dairy industry. Parag Dairy is one of the prominent dairy companies in the region, known for its high-quality dairy products. The visit aimed to provide students with an insight into the processes involved in dairy production, quality control, and the overall functioning of the dairy industry.

A total number of approx. 50 undergraduate students participated in this visit under the faculty coordinators- Ms. Rashmi Rakesh & Dr. Rahul Mishra.

2. Objectives of the Visit

• To observe the processes involved in milk collection, pasteurization, and packaging.
• To learn about the supply chain and logistics involved in dairy product distribution.
• To understand the importance of quality control and hygiene standards in dairy production.
• To explore the use of modern technology and machinery in dairy production.
• To gain knowledge on how dairy industries manage waste, water consumption, and energy in an environmentally sustainable manner.
• To understand the economic and social impact of the dairy industry on local communities and the economy.

3. Key Learnings

The visit provided a wealth of practical knowledge and insights, including:

Dairy Production Process

• Milk Collection and Handling: Parag Dairy sources milk from local farmers, ensuring that it meets strict quality standards. The milk is collected in sanitized tanks, tested for quality, and transported to the dairy plant for further processing.
• Pasteurization and Processing: The milk undergoes pasteurization, which involves heating the milk to a specific temperature to kill harmful bacteria. The process helps in maintaining the nutritional value of the milk while ensuring its safety for consumption.
• Packaging: Parag Dairy employs advanced automated packaging technology to package milk and other dairy products in sterile conditions, preserving their shelf life and quality.

Quality Control and Hygiene Standards

• Testing and Inspection: Quality control is a priority, and the dairy follows stringent testing protocols to check for contaminants, fat content, and overall milk quality. The plant also maintains a high standard of cleanliness, with regular sanitation of all equipment and facilities.
• Certifications: The plant is certified with international standards for quality, including ISO certifications and other food safety standards.

Technological Advancements

• Automation: The dairy employs cutting-edge technology for processing, packaging, and managing operations efficiently. This reduces human error, increases productivity, and ensures consistent product quality.
• Robotics in Packaging: The use of robotic arms in packaging and sorting is a key highlight of the technological infrastructure at Parag Dairy, contributing to reduced labor costs and better accuracy in packaging.

Sustainability Initiatives

• Waste Management: The dairy plant practices efficient waste management by recycling organic waste into biogas, which is then used to generate energy for the plant’s operations.
• Water Conservation: The plant uses water-efficient processes, including water recycling systems that minimize water usage in the production process.
• Energy Efficiency: The dairy has implemented several measures to reduce energy consumption, including the use of energy-efficient machinery and the installation of solar panels.

4. Benefits of the Visit

The industrial visit offered numerous benefits, both educational and practical:

Practical Exposure to Industry Practices

• Students gained first-hand exposure to the various processes involved in dairy production, which is vital for those pursuing careers in food processing, supply chain management, or quality control.

In-depth Understanding of the Supply Chain

• The visit helped students appreciate the complexities of managing a supply chain, from milk collection to distribution, and how critical logistics and inventory management are in ensuring fresh products reach consumers.

Awareness of Industry Trends

• The use of automation and advanced technologies in dairy operations made students aware of the trends shaping modern manufacturing practices. This insight can guide future research or career decisions in the field.

Exposure to Sustainability Practices

• Students were able to see how the dairy industry manages its environmental impact, which is increasingly important in the context of global sustainability goals. This exposure will help students incorporate sustainability into their future careers and decision-making processes.

Enhanced Understanding of Quality Assurance

• The emphasis on hygiene, safety, and quality control at Parag Dairy showed the importance of maintaining high standards in food production, which is crucial for consumer safety and brand reputation.

5. Conclusion

The industrial visit to Parag Dairy was an enriching experience that offered valuable insights into the workings of the dairy industry. Students were able to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world practices and understand the various challenges and solutions in the dairy sector. The visit also highlighted the significance of quality control, technological advancements, and sustainability in modern dairy operations.

This experience will undoubtedly be beneficial in shaping the students' understanding of the food industry and preparing them for future professional roles in related field.

The coordinators extend their gratitude to Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Bhanu Pratap Singh, Registrar Dr. Girish Chhimwal, Dean-MSOBM Dr. Sandhya Sinha, Sr. Admin Officer Mr. Rajesh Singh for their support and encouragement for the visit.

Report Prepared & Submitted by: 

Rashmi Rakesh

Assistant Professor 

Maharishi School of Business Management

Maharishi University of Information Technology, Lucknow