Bengaluru: Prices of Nandini milk and other dairy products in Karnataka could increase soon, with representatives of 16 milk unions preparing to seek a hike
of at least Rs 10 per litre from Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.
The demand is expected to be discussed during a meeting with the chief minister on Saturday. The proposal comes amid rising costs faced by dairy farmers and milk producers across the state.
Speaking after the annual general body meeting of the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), Bangalore Milk Union Ltd (BAMUL) president D K Suresh said an increase in milk prices had become necessary because farmers were facing financial pressure.
“The price of fodder has increased significantly. Petrol and diesel prices have increased, as has the cost of all raw materials. When such is the situation, demanding a price rise is inevitable,” Suresh was quoted as saying by Deccan Herald.
He also pointed to higher expenses for plastic milk packets and transportation in recent months.
KMF officials are expected to submit a formal proposal to the chief minister seeking the increase.
A rise in the price of milk could also push up the cost of several Nandini products. Curd, butter, ghee and sweets are among the products that could become more expensive if the proposed hike is approved.
The demand comes amid concerns over the availability and cost of cattle feed in Karnataka.
Representatives of the Karnataka Milk Producers’ Association had earlier said drought conditions in parts of the state had reduced the availability of fodder and increased expenses for dairy farmers.
The association had also highlighted an increase in the prices of key ingredients used in cattle feed. The cost of commodities such as maize and rice bran has reportedly risen by around 25%, adding to the financial burden on farmers.
The unions argue that higher production and operating costs need to be reflected in the price paid for milk.
Shivakumar has also indicated that a milk price increase could be considered. The chief minister said he understood the difficulties being faced by farmers and had sought information on milk prices in other states.
