In a significant move to provide relief to dairy farmers, the Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (KCMMF), popularly known as Milma, has decided to increase the subsidy on Milma Gold cattle feed to Rs 300 per sack for the month of March. This marks a threefold increase from the existing Rs 100 subsidy, offering crucial financial assistance to farmers grappling with rising production costs.
A Much-Needed Boost for Dairy Farmers
Announcing the decision, Milma Chairman K.S. Mani emphasized that this increase will significantly reduce cattle feed expenses and ensure better profitability for dairy farmers. The escalating cost of production has posed challenges for milk producers, making this subsidy revision a timely and much-needed intervention.
Since September 2024, Milma’s regional unions in Malabar and Thiruvananthapuram have been providing a subsidy of Rs 100 per sack, keeping the rate steady at levels last seen five years ago. The latest increase in subsidy is expected to further reduce cattle feed prices, making dairy farming more sustainable and profitable.
Historic Support from Milma’s Regional Unions
For the first time in Milma’s history, some of its regional unions have continuously provided cattle feed subsidies and increased milk procurement prices for farmers without any interruptions for a full year. This demonstrates Milma’s strong commitment to ensuring the welfare of dairy farmers, fostering stability in the sector, and supporting Kerala’s dairy economy.
Impact on the Dairy Sector
With production costs soaring, initiatives like this serve as a lifeline for dairy farmers, helping them sustain operations and enhance milk output. By subsidizing cattle feed and maintaining stable milk buying rates, Milma continues to play a pivotal role in supporting Kerala’s cooperative dairy ecosystem.
This latest subsidy increase highlights Milma’s dedication to strengthening the dairy industry, empowering farmers, and ensuring a resilient supply chain that benefits both producers and consumers across Kerala.
