Amaravati, Nov 7 (TIWN) Milk procurement under an agreement between the Andhra Pradesh government and Amul will take off from November 20 in three districts -- Prakasam, Chittoor and Kadapa.

Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister Seediri Appalaraju said Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will distribute cheques to the dairy farmers on November 25.

"The state government signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Amul to encourage milk cooperative societies, especially those run by women, and further develop the dairy sector in the state," said Appalaraju.

According to the minister, the agreement aims to boost confidence among dairy farmers and empower them economically and socially.

As many as 5.6 lakh women, who were provided financial assistance through the YSR Cheyutha scheme, have come forward to set up mini diaries in the villages.

These mini dairies are expected to collect up to 22 lakh additional litres of milk. The state government supplied cattle to these women.