Karnataka government reviews Nandini milk price hike request

Milk producers in Karnataka have demanded an immediate price increase of Rs 8 per litre, threatening state-wide protests if the government and the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) do not respond within three days. The Karnataka Milk Producers Association, supported by several unions, attributed the demand to rising production and packaging costs, as well as severe drought conditions. Producers noted that drought has reduced fodder availability, causing daily milk procurement to drop from 1.11 crore litres to 1.03 crore litres over a three-month period. They also reported a decline in milk quality and fat content. KMF officials stated that while a price hike is a long-pending necessity, an Rs 8 increase presents challenges and awaits final approval from the state government. Association President P Nagaraj and unions including Bamul, Chamul, Mandya Milk, and Tumkur have issued an ultimatum to the state government. Producers highlighted a 40% increase in packaging costs since April 2025, alongside rising expenses for animal feed, fuel, and transportation. If the government does not act within the three-day window, the associations have threatened state-wide protests, including a march to the Vidhana Soudha. Producers have further specified that the demand includes a corresponding rise in government incentives. They noted that current milk prices in Karnataka remain lower than those in neighboring states such as Delhi, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. Economic pressures cited include a 25% increase in the cost of cattle feed and raw materials, alongside rising fuel and transportation expenses. In response to these demands, the Karnataka government is evaluating a proposal to increase procurement and retail prices for Nandini milk by Rs 8 to Rs 10 per litre. Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has requested detailed reports on production costs, cattle feed price trends over the last decade, and procurement volumes, including comparisons with neighboring states.