The diploma programme consists of eight courses of four credits each. The eligibility obligation for the diploma programme is 10+2 pass or the applicant should have completed the Bachelor Preparatory Programme (BPP) from IGNOU. However, 10th pass can register simultaneously for the BPP and the diploma programme. The diploma programme can be completed minimum in one year and maximum in four years period. The programme is offered in English and Hindi languages. The rural students and below poverty line urban students are eligible for 50% fee concession. The programme obviates the skill gaps at the operator level and provides job opportunities at the level of technician in the dairy plants.

According to Prof. M. K .Salooja, Dircetor, SOA, the basic objective of the programme is to develop technician level human resource for dairy industry. The programme imparts knowledge and technical proficiency in clean milk production and handling, processing, manufacture of western and indigenous dairy products, testing and quality control of milk and milk products, marketing and economical aspects, managing small and medium enterprises and facilitate good manufacturing practices in the processing sector. It also imparts development of skills for entrepreneurship to encourage self employment in dairy processing activities. The weightage to theory and practical component is equal (50: 50).

Interested learners can procure the common student handbook and prospectus from their nearest regional centers or from the university's headquarters at Maidan Garhi on payment of Rs.100. However, the application form is also available on the university's website which can be downloaded, filled and submitted to the regional centre along with the amount of Rs.100 in addition to the programme fee in the form of demand draft in favor of IGNOU, payable at the city where the regional centre is located.

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