How This Goan Woman Turned 10 Cows Into a Booming Dairy Business

By Admin

31 May, 2025

The inspiring journey of Amita Naik from homemaker to dairy entrepreneur

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted lives and livelihoods, many found themselves at a crossroads. But for Amita Naik, a resilient homemaker from Ibrampur, Pernem in Goa, it became a turning point. Rather than panic, she pivoted   transforming her modest dairy setup into Adishri, a thriving dairy brand that now serves hundreds in the region.

From Flowers to Farming

Amita and her husband didn’t originally plan to enter the dairy industry. Initially, they cultivated gerbera flowers in a polyhouse with family support. While they had the land and farming skills, the venture lacked fulfillment. In 2017, seeking a new direction, they purchased 10 cows, using their farmland to grow fodder. They began selling milk to local customers and Goa Dairy, joining a strong network of farmers in Pernem.

However, selling milk at ₹30 per litre didn’t reflect the effort involved. The couple continued for two years, but the idea of doing more with their resources never left their minds.

The Pandemic Pivot

The 2020 lockdowns brought an unexpected surge in milk demand, but it also prompted reflection. Instead of relying on raw milk sales, Amita envisioned a brand that delivered value-added dairy products like curd, paneer, and lassi   items with higher returns and greater demand.

She enrolled in technical training through the Lupin Foundation and explored government subsidies via the Rural Development Agency (RDA). These initiatives enabled her to purchase essential machinery such as paneer-making and sealing machines, testing kits, and lassi stirrers.

Amita recalls, “From 2020 to 2022, we spent time learning the market, understanding our machinery, and sourcing raw materials like packaging materials. It was not an overnight process.”

Launching Adishri

After acquiring the necessary permissions from local panchayats and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Amita officially launched Adishri in 2023. What started with 10 cows grew into a dairy business with 25 cows producing over 150 litres of milk per day.

Today, Adishri offers products like fresh lassi, curd, paneer, ghee, and even nostalgic ice candies known as “Pepsi”. Their lassi and curd have become especially popular in Bardez, with over 1,000 litres sold regularly.

Beyond Dairy: Sustainable Growth

Recognising the seasonal nature of dairy sales, Amita diversified by producing vermicompost from cow dung   generating an additional ₹15,000 per month. This eco-friendly initiative highlights her commitment to sustainable income streams with minimal investment.

Doubling Income with Value Addition

By shifting from raw milk to processed products, the Naiks more than doubled their income   selling their products for nearly ₹70 per litre. It’s a significant leap from the ₹30 they once earned per litre of raw milk.

“Looking back, I realise how important it was to take this step. Hard work and perseverance have truly paid off,” Amita shares.

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change

Amita’s story is a powerful example of women’s empowerment in action. She navigated challenges with determination and carved a niche in Goa’s male-dominated dairy sector. However, she notes one ongoing challenge   the reluctance of Goans to support local brands.

“Goans still hesitate to support homegrown businesses, but I am optimistic. One day, they will recognise the quality and importance of promoting local entrepreneurs,” she says.

The Road Ahead

With her sights set on expansion, Amita plans to introduce more dairy-based products and further grow Adishri into a household name in Goa. What started as a humble effort has become a beacon of hope, inspiration, and entrepreneurship.

“We have built this market from scratch, and we are determined to take it to new heights. There’s no looking back now,” she affirms confidently.

Amita Naik’s journey is not just about milk   it’s about vision, courage, and transformation. In turning 10 cows into a booming dairy brand, she has shown that with the right mindset, any obstacle can be turned into an opportunity.