The Karnataka government is set to increase milk prices to balance the demands of dairy farmers while safeguarding consumer interests, according to Animal Husbandry Minister K. Venkatesh.
Responding to MLC Umashree’s query in the Legislative Council, Venkatesh confirmed that the government acknowledges dairy farmers’ demands for a ₹10 per litre price hike and is actively evaluating the best course of action.
Balancing Dairy Farmers’ Livelihoods and Consumer Affordability
The minister emphasized that the Karnataka Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation Limited (KMF) plays a crucial role in ensuring fair pricing and stability in the dairy sector.
🔹 Multiple discussions have been held to weigh the economic impact of a price hike
🔹 Authorities are considering how a price increase will affect both farmers and consumers
🔹 Further meetings are scheduled before making a final decision
While farmers have been demanding higher procurement prices, the government is cautious about preventing a surge in consumer milk prices, which could impact affordability.
Pending Incentives: A Growing Concern for Dairy Farmers
Beyond the pricing issue, thousands of dairy farmers in Karnataka are still waiting for pending incentives from the government.
📌 Total pending beneficiaries: 9,04,547 farmers
📌 General category farmers (8,17,074): Awaiting 5 months’ worth of incentives
📌 Scheduled Caste farmers (52,467): Pending payments for 2 months
📌 Scheduled Tribe farmers (35,006): Awaiting 4 months’ worth of incentives
The government acknowledged these delays and assured that efforts are being made to release pending payments.
What’s Next?
With the dairy sector at a crossroads, the government is expected to announce a milk price revision soon. However, it must strike a delicate balance between supporting dairy farmers and preventing price shocks for consumers.
As Karnataka’s dairy farmers await relief, will the government’s decision be sustainable for both farmers and consumers in the long run?
