Patna: In a first-of-its-kind partnership in Bihar, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bihar State Milk Cooperative Federation Limited (Comfed) would soon be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under which Comfed will operate HPCL fuel stations while also running Sudha Cafeterias at the same locations.Under the proposed arrangement, HPCL will develop the fuel station infrastructure, while Comfed will be responsible for the operation and management of both the fuel station and the adjoining Sudha Cafeteria. The first integrated facility is proposed to be established at HPCL’s upcoming fuel station in Nalanda district.The initiative would mark a diversification of Comfed’s operations beyond the dairy sector. Besides dispensing fuel, the cooperative will offer Sudha milk, dairy products and other food items through the cafeteria, providing travellers and local residents with multiple services at a single location. The partnership is expected to leverage HPCL’s fuel retail network and Comfed’s strong brand presence and operational reach in Bihar, creating a one-stop destination for fuel and dairy products.The programme will also witness the foundation stone laying of a 20 MTPD (Metric Tonnes Per Day) curd and lassi plant, to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 15 crore in Nalanda. In addition, 300 deep freezers will be distributed among selected retailers to strengthen the cooperative’s cold-chain network. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is scheduled to inaugurate these projects.Comfed chairman-cum-managing director Shirsat Kapil Ashok said the initiative is being finalised under Bihar govt’s “Sahkar se Samriddhi programme”, a key component of the Saat Nischay-3. He said the collaboration will promote the cooperative movement, generate new sources of income and enhance Comfed’s revenue through non-dairy business activities.Comfed officials said the Sudha Cafeteria model will significantly improve the visibility and availability of Sudha products among thousands of customers visiting fuel stations every day. The concept is expected to strengthen the brand’s presence along national and state highways while creating new employment opportunities and supporting the federation’s long-term commercial expansion.The upcoming curd and lassi plant is expected to ensure a steady supply of high quality packaged dairy products to consumers in south Bihar and neighbouring Jharkhand.
