From Our Correspondent
Vijayawada: Veteran cooperative leader and former Chairman of Krishna Milk Union (Vijaya Dairy), Mandava Janakiramayya, passed away on Thursday morning at his residence, Rushi Vatika near Chinna Avutapalli in Gannavaram mandal. He was 94 and had been ailing for some time.
Janakiramayya is survived by a son and two daughters. His final rites were performed at the Allapuram cremation ground in Gannavaram later in the evening, family sources said.
Janakiramayya, who took charge as the second chairman of Krishna Milk Union in 1992 when the organisation was facing a difficult phase, is credited with reviving its fortunes within a short period. Under his stewardship, Vijaya Dairy not only turned profitable but also became known for offering the highest milk procurement price in the country at the time.
He ensured that both farmers and employees received annual bonuses, a practice that strengthened trust and morale within the cooperative. Recognising his remarkable contribution to the dairy sector, the Indian Dairy Association honoured him with the Varghese Kurien Award. For his pioneering efforts in transforming dairy operations and farmer welfare in Andhra Pradesh, he earned the affectionate title “Andhra Kurien.”
During his long association with Vijaya Dairy, spanning over 27 years, Janakiramayya worked tirelessly for the welfare of milk producers and to strengthen the cooperative movement in the state. His leadership left a lasting impact on the dairy sector, setting benchmarks in farmer-oriented management and transparency.
Several dairy officials, cooperative leaders, and farmers have expressed deep condolences over his demise, describing him as a visionary leader who dedicated his life to the upliftment of rural milk producers.