What does it take to run a sustainable, high-performing dairy farm? Just ask Nuriddin Khodjabekov, the owner of Sulton Farm, who recently won the Eco-Farm Award at the prestigious Uzbekistan Business Awards 2024. As interest in environmentally friendly food production, including dairy, continues to grow in Uzbekistan and around the world, consumers are increasingly seeking products made with care for both nature and animal well-being. In this context, the ‘Eco Farm: Dairy Farming’ category has become more relevant and in demand than ever. 

Sulton Farm is committed to balancing profitability with sustainability in dairy farming. By keeping cows content, they’re able to produce better milk, and with the help of DeLaval’s cutting-edge technology, they’re setting new standards in the industry. With advanced milking systems, automated herd management, and a strong focus on animal welfare, the farm is demonstrating that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. 

History of the farm

Sulton Farm was founded in 1993 by the father of the current owner and manager, Sultanmurad Hojabekov. Nowadays, his son Nuriddin Hojabekov continues his father’s work, with the next generation, Asliddin Hojabekov, also actively involved. This three-generation farming family has overseen the farm’s transformation over the years. Until 2017, the farm primarily focused on crop production, growing cotton while maintaining a herd of 50 dairy cows. However, after learning about DeLaval’s technology, they decided to build a modern facility for 400 dairy cows.

How the dairy farm has grown 

In 2019, a five-year leasing contract was signed between Sulton Farm, DeLaval, and Tetra Laval Credit for the supply of technological equipment for the livestock farm. 

The delivery of the equipment took place in 2020, a year marked by challenges due to COVID-19 restrictions. Despite these difficulties, construction and installation of the new technology were carried out from February to October 2021. By October 2021, the farm was fully operational. Nuridddin became the first farmer in Uzbekistan to import 300 Holstein-Friesian cattle from Denmark. These cows adapted quickly to the new climate and are now producing 30.5 litres of milk per cow, demonstrating that responsible farming practices can drive a strong yield. 

A focus on conditions, feeding, and health 

Nuriddin emphasises the importance of providing his cows with the best possible conditions, nutrition, and healthcare. This commitment strengthens the connection between the farmer and his animals. 

By understanding the unique characteristics of each cow, he ensures they receive individualised care. “Seeing the result of his labour—healthy and well-cared-for animals producing high-quality milk—brings great satisfaction. Dairy farming is not just a business but a way of life.” This philosophy is supported by a carefully designed infrastructure that prioritises efficiency, hygiene, and animal comfort. 

How different technologies are helping to drive sustainability 

Sulton Farm’s commitment to sustainability is supported by a range of advanced DeLaval equipment that plays a crucial role in improving efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing animal welfare. For instance, the Herringbone HB30 2x14 milking parlour, equipped with DelPro herd management software and a sorting gate, ensures precise milking while minimising the risk of contamination. This automated system not only maintains hygiene but also helps reduce waste and product loss, further supporting the farm’s sustainability goals. 

Milk cooling tanks (DXCE 7500 L – 2 units) ensure that the milk is stored at the ideal temperature, reducing energy consumption and maintaining quality. At the same time, the farm’s comfortable cow housing, which includes M40R mattresses, stall dividers, and feed fences, contributes to animal welfare, promoting healthier and more productive cows, while reducing stress and the need for antibiotics. 

The installation of water troughs (WT 10, DC2) ensure that cows always have access to fresh, clean water. This supports the farm's efforts to optimise water consumption, improving both the cows' health and their milk production. Additionally, manure management systems like the AKD 140 and AKD 80 scraper manure removal systems and the DM35 manure separation system efficiently handle waste, converting it into valuable fertiliser and preventing soil and water pollution. 

To maintain optimal animal comfort and productivity, cow cooling systems, installed at the feed table, milking parlour, and waiting areas, help regulate temperature using DDF 1200P fans and the BSC comfort control system. These systems reduce heat stress on cows, improving their overall welfare and productivity. 

Lastly, the CRAW ventilation curtains help maintain a consistent and comfortable environment for the cows by allowing for natural airflow, which is essential for maintaining a healthy, low-stress environment. 

DeLaval equipment at Sulton Farm 

• Herringbone HB30 2x14 milking parlour: Automated milking for hygiene, efficiency, and reduced waste. 
• DelPro herd management software: Smart data management for optimal herd performance. 
• Milk cooling tanks DXCE 7500L (2 units): Energy-efficient cooling to maintain milk quality. 
• M40R mattresses & stall dividers: Comfortable cow housing to promote animal welfare. 
• Feed fence: Efficient feed delivery and reduced waste. 
• Water troughs (WT 10, DC2): Constant access to clean water for improved health and productivity. 
• AKD 140 & AKD 80 scraper manure removal systems: Efficient manure handling to prevent disease and reduce environmental impact. 
• DM35 manure separation system: Converts waste into valuable fertiliser, enhancing sustainability. 
• Cow cooling systems: DDF 1200P fans and BSC control units to reduce heat stress and improve comfort. 

Through the integration of these advanced systems, Sulton Farm is able to achieve several key sustainability outcomes: 

• Reducing resource consumption: The farm efficiently manages water, energy, and feed, ensuring minimal waste. 
• Minimising environmental impact: With the manure separation system and efficient waste management, soil and water pollution are significantly reduced. 
• Enhancing animal health and welfare: Comfortable housing and climate control systems reduce the need for antibiotics and contribute to healthier cows. 
• Increasing production efficiency: Automated milking and herd management technologies lead to higher milk yields and lower losses. 

By leveraging DeLaval technology, Sulton Farm is not only improving its operational efficiency but also contributing to a more sustainable and responsible future for dairy farming. According to Nuridddin “the equipment plays a crucial role in balancing economic efficiency with environmental responsibility and animal welfare.”  

The decision to focus on sustainability at Sulton Farm is driven by several key factors. First and foremost is their environmental responsibility, with a deep connection to the land and a commitment to preserving soil fertility for future generations. The farm also recognises the economic benefits of sustainability, as it helps reduce costs related to water, energy, and fertilisers, while improving long-term efficiency. 

The farm’s sustainability initiatives also include the installation of solar panels to power farm operations, ensuring the use of renewable energy. They also employ efficient water management techniques, such as drip irrigation, alongside other conservation methods. The farm prioritises organic farming by avoiding chemical fertilisers and pesticides, instead opting for organic alternatives. In addition, they have implemented waste management practices that transform animal waste into compost. Finally, animal welfare is a key focus, with efforts made to provide animals with access to fresh air, adequate space, and quality feed. 

Sergey Volkov, Solution Manager, Farm Management Support, Central Asia, says: “In Uzbekistan, there is a growing interest among farmers in sustainable practices. This shift is driven by both environmental awareness and the economic advantages that sustainability offers. While the transition requires effort and investment, the long-term benefits extend to both farmers and society as a whole.” 

The future 

Looking ahead, Sulton Farm is planning further expansion and investment in sustainable practices. A new farm for 500 dairy cows is in the works, reflecting the farm’s confidence in the future of dairy farming. They also plan to adopt new technologies, including the installation of biogas equipment and a cow activity detection system to improve herd management. In addition, Sulton Farm will continue to strengthen its sustainability efforts, prioritising organic feed production, water and energy conservation, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

By maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, Sulton Farm sets a powerful example for the future of dairy farming in Uzbekistan and beyond. 

Nuriddin Khodjabekov, the owner of Sulton Farm, pictured with the Eco Farm Award.