Mumbai: Maharashtra’s iconic dairy brands Aarey and Mahanand are set to make a major comeback, with the state government and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) accelerating revival efforts to strengthen the organised dairy sector and improve milk quality across the state.
The announcement was made by NDDB Chairman Meenesh Shah during a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, where discussions focused on dairy sector reforms, milk adulteration control, and the revival of legacy state-run dairy brands. Revival work for Mahanand Dairy is reported to be nearly 78% complete, while the relaunch of both Aarey and Mahanand brands is expected soon.
Revival of Legacy Dairy Brands
Aarey was once one of Mumbai’s most recognised milk brands, known for its wide distribution network and strong public trust. Over the years, government-owned dairy operations declined due to the rise of private cooperatives and reduced infrastructure support.
Now, under the revival plan, Mahanand has been tasked with expanding production and strengthening retail presence through signature parlours and upgraded infrastructure. Officials also confirmed that the relaunch of the Aarey brand will be supported by fresh milk production and improved distribution systems.
Focus on Milk Quality and Adulteration Control
A major part of the reform drive is tackling milk adulteration, especially in the unorganised sector, which currently accounts for nearly 60% of Maharashtra’s milk production.
NDDB has developed a special test strip capable of detecting adulterants such as urea and other contaminants, and the system is expected to become fully operational within the next six months. CM Fadnavis also called for the development of an AI-based mechanism in collaboration with NDDB and IITs to strengthen milk quality monitoring and ensure safer dairy supply.
Expansion of Dairy Infrastructure
Several major projects are being launched as part of the broader dairy modernisation programme, including:
- A new greenfield dairy project in Goregaon with high processing capacity
- A compressed biogas plant in Aarey Colony
- New dairy plants in Udgir and Nagpur
- An advanced milk testing laboratory at Mahanand Dairy under the Centre’s NPDD scheme
Milk procurement is also being scaled up across 19 districts in Vidarbha and Marathwada, helping improve farmer participation and supply chain efficiency.
Cooperative Sector Expansion
The government is also working to bring more producers into the organised dairy system. NDDB plans to integrate 75,000 additional villages nationwide into the cooperative dairy network, which is expected to improve farmer incomes while reducing the chances of adulteration.
Bigger Picture
The relaunch of Aarey and Mahanand is more than just the return of two familiar brands—it represents a larger push toward modernising Maharashtra’s dairy ecosystem through technology, stronger cooperatives, and better consumer trust.
With improved infrastructure, stronger quality checks, and renewed state support, the comeback of these legacy brands could significantly reshape Mumbai’s dairy market while benefiting both consumers and milk producers across Maharashtra.
