By Dairy Dimension News Desk | Indore | June 2025
A severe rise in temperatures in Indore has led to a sharp decline in milk production, with loose milk collections dropping by nearly 1 lakh litres per day, according to the Indore Dugdh Vikreta Sangh. This drop in supply comes during peak summer demand for lassi, curd, and other dairy beverages, further straining the region’s dairy supply chain.
🌡️ Climate Strain on Dairy: Production Dips, Demand Soars
Over the past ten days, local temperatures have spiked by 8°C, pushing dairy cows under thermal stress and reducing milk yields. The Indore Dugdh Vikreta Sangh, which supplies milk directly to consumers twice a day, reported that daily collections have fallen to 11–11.5 lakh litres, compared to usual levels of over 12.5 lakh litres.
“We are left with no surplus. Production has dropped while demand for summer by-products like lassi and curd is surging,” said Bharat Mathurawala, President of the Association.
📈 Milk Prices Hiked to Offset Supply Pressure
To cope with rising production costs and tightening supply, the association has announced a ₹2/litre increase in milk prices, effective March 1, 2025. This is aimed at partially compensating for the rising cost of cattle care, feed, and cooling systems during the scorching summer.
“There has been limited growth in milk output in recent years, and extreme summer conditions make the situation worse,” Mathurawala added. “Margins for farmers are shrinking, while operational costs rise.”
🐄 Farmers Bear the Brunt
The fall in production not only impacts consumers but also hits dairy farmers, many of whom already operate on thin margins. Increased heat stress results in lower milk yields, higher water needs, and additional feed costs, while input prices for fodder and energy continue to climb.
⚠️ Broader Implications
This situation reflects a larger trend affecting the Indian dairy sector:
- Climate volatility is increasingly disrupting supply chains.
- Urban summer demand spikes clash with rural production slowdowns.
- Loose milk suppliers, still vital in many Tier-2 cities, lack the cold chain support that organised players rely on.
related news: Sanchi Hikes Milk Prices by ₹2/Litre Amid Rising Procurement and Input Costs – Dairy Dimension
