Fri Feb 06 16:12:56 UTC 2026: Headline: Uthukuli Butter Production Centre Faces Uncertainty Amidst Changing Dairy Practices
The Story: Dairy farmers in the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu are expressing concerns about the upcoming Uthukuli Butter Production Centre at Chengapalli. The project, backed by a ₹6.5 crore state government allocation following an announcement by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in August 2025, aims to capitalize on the Geographical Indication (GI) tag awarded to Uthukuli butter in 2024. However, traditional butter producers note a significant shift from buffalo milk, the original source of Uthukuli butter, to cow milk due to the challenges of raising buffaloes.
Key Points:
- The Uthukuli Butter Production Centre is planned for Chengapalli in Tiruppur district.
- The State Government sanctioned ₹6.5 crore for the project, announced by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
- Uthukuli butter received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2024.
- Traditional Uthukuli butter was primarily made from buffalo milk.
- Farmers have largely switched to hybrid cows due to the difficulty of raising buffaloes and the economic incentives of the textile industry.
- Manufacturers suggest the government consider a large-scale investment similar to the Animal Husbandry Department’s Bargur Cattle Research Station for captive buffalo breeding and fodder production.
- Aavin, Tiruppur, has been entrusted with the responsibility of establishing the butter production centre.
Key Takeaways:
- The shift from buffalo milk to cow milk poses a significant challenge to maintaining the authenticity of “Uthukuli” butter, despite its GI tag.
- The success of the Uthukuli Butter Production Centre hinges on addressing the scarcity of buffalo milk and ensuring the availability of appropriate feed.
- Government intervention may be necessary to support buffalo farming through investments in captive breeding and fodder production.
First Piper 