Demow, Oct 24: From starting out with a small quantity of milk in 2014 to running a dairy enterprise that processes up to 300 litres a day, Tonumaya Sonar Biswakarma’s entrepreneurial journey has earned her the Assam Gaurav Award under the 2025 State Civilian Awards.
A “Lakhpati Baidew” from Nohat village near Demow in Assam’s Sivasagar district, Tonumaya has been recognised for her contribution to the dairy sector through Jashuda Dairy and Sweets, her venture that supplies milk and a range of dairy products to local markets while generating employment opportunities.
Expressing happiness over her selection for the award, Tonumaya thanked Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and workers of the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ASRLM) for their support and encouragement.
“I am happy to be announced for the Assam Gaurav Award. I would like to thank the Chief Minister and the workers under the Assam State Gramin Jeevika Mission,” she said.
Recalling her entrepreneurial journey, Tonumaya said the business had expanded significantly since its early days and now handles around 200 to 300 litres of milk daily.
Tonumaya Sonar Biswakarma with husband Bipul Biswakarma (AT Image)
Jashuda Dairy and Sweets sells fresh milk and produces a variety of dairy products, including curd, traditional Assamese doi, cream, paneer and ghee.
Its products are supplied to local markets, helping the enterprise establish a presence in the region.
Her husband, Bipul Biswakarma, has been a constant source of support throughout her entrepreneurial journey.
He expressed pride in her achievement, highlighting her dedication to the business and its role in generating employment.
“I am happy that my wife has been selected for the award. She has worked with great dedication and, over the years, has generated employment opportunities. In the future, there will be more. I will always support her in her work,” Bipul said.
Tonumaya’s selection has drawn congratulatory messages from people across the region. State Cabinet Minister and local MLA Sushanta Borgohain also congratulated her on the recognition, which honours her contribution to the dairy sector.