Karnataka government faces pressure over milk price hike, decision pending – DairyDimension

Speaking in Ballari on Saturday, KMF Chairperson Bheema Naik revealed that the state government remains indecisive about the proposed price hike. “The demand is coming from farmers, various organizations, and the Department of Animal Husbandry, but the government has not reached a final decision yet,” he said.

The proposed hike aims to address rising costs in dairy farming. According to Naik, the additional revenue generated from the price increase would be directed to farmers, a proposal already communicated to the government. However, authorities are cautious about implementing the hike, fearing public backlash if milk prices rise alongside other essential commodities, such as water.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Managing Bengaluru’s infrastructure without raising water bills is difficult, and a simultaneous increase in milk prices could tarnish the government’s image.”

Amid ongoing deliberations, Minister for Animal Husbandry K. Venkatesh convened a meeting with KMF officials to discuss the necessity of the hike. KMF representatives argued that milk prices in Karnataka are significantly lower than in neighboring states—Rs 44 per litre compared to Rs 56 in Gujarat, Rs 54 in Kerala, and Rs 58 in Andhra Pradesh.

Farmers’ organizations have amplified their demands, with the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Green Brigade staging a protest on February 10 at the KMF office in Bengaluru. Protesters demanded an interim support price of Rs 10 per litre and an increase in the milk procurement price to Rs 50 per litre. They also urged the government to eliminate levies on locally procured milk and ensure direct procurement of maize for cattle feed.

The last revision in Karnataka’s milk price occurred on June 25, 2024, when the government increased the rate by Rs 2 per litre and added an extra 50 ml of milk to each packet. The move, intended to avoid KMF’s financial losses, drew criticism.

While KMF officials continue to push for a Rs 5 per litre increase, the government’s cautious approach suggests that a final decision may still take time. Farmers and federations remain resolute, warning of further protests unless their demands are met.