Life-Time Award: Sodhi thanks 3.6 million farmers

R S Sodhi Managing Director of the GCMMF which owns famed dairy brand Amul has been conferred the “Life-time Achievement Award” at National Seminar, SMC College of Dairy Science in Anand, Gujarat.

The award was given to him for his contribution to dairy industry in the country.

Expressing his thanks, Sodhi said it is the trust of 3.6 million farmers that has taken Amul to the present heights. He also acknowledged the team behind him which works tirelessly both in terms of earning more for farmers and offering quality product to consumers.

In his remarks, MD also acknowledged the role played by legendary figures such as Dr. Kurien and Tribhuvan Das Patel.

“I also dedicate this award to my parents and family members who have relentlessly stood by him”, said an emotional Sodhi.

The Faculty of Dairy Science, Anand, is a pioneering national center for dairy technology education established in 1960.The faculty represented by SMC College of Dairy Science has been recognized as “Center of Excellence” which produces qualified dairy professionals.

Sodhi had been instrumental in almost doubling farmers’ income in last six years. Credited with uncanny marketing skills, he saw in his last term Amul double its business from Rs 10000 crore to Rs 20,733 crore. The Board felt compelled to retain him till the co-operative giant achieves its avowed target of Rs 50,000 crore turn over by 2020.

Sodhi himself has on a number of occasions said he aims to achieve this target. He has planned rapid expansion across the entire value chain. With increased milk procurement, Amul’s processing capacities across all member unions have expanded. Amul has also ventured into the hitherto unchartered areas.

Sodhi has been the Managing Director at Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation since January 4, 2011 and earlier served as its Chief General Manager. Sodhi served as In charge Managing Director of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation from June 2010 to January 4, 2011. He has been working with Amul for the last 35 years.

He has done his MBA from the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) and started his career as Senior Manager Sales in Amul and by sheer hard labor rose to prominence in the cooperative behemoth.