In yet another blow to household budgets, the price of milk in Pune is set to rise by Rs 2 per liter starting from March 15, 2025. The decision was taken unanimously during a meeting of the Milk Producers and Processing Welfare Association, held at the Pune District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Society (Katraj Dairy) on March 12. The meeting was attended by 47 representatives from various cooperative and private milk unions across Maharashtra.
Why Are Milk Prices Rising?
The price hike has been attributed to multiple factors, including:
- Rising production costs: Increased prices of cattle feed, fodder, and transportation.
- Higher operational expenses: Dairy farms are facing elevated electricity and labor costs.
- Inflationary pressures: The overall rise in input costs has made it necessary to adjust milk prices to ensure the sustainability of dairy farmers.
Key Decisions Made at the Meeting
During the discussions, several pressing issues related to the dairy industry were addressed:
- Curbing adulteration in paneer and dairy products: Members highlighted the growing concern of adulteration and emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns.
- Demand for pending subsidies: Dairy farmers urged the government to expedite the disbursement of pending subsidies, which would help mitigate financial stress in the sector.
- Approaching regulatory bodies: The association decided to meet with officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Minister of Dairy Development to demand strict actions against milk adulteration.
Who Were the Key Attendees?
The meeting was chaired by Gopalrao Mhaske, the association’s president, and included key industry figures such as:
- Prakash Kutwal – Honorary Secretary
- Ranjitsingh Deshmukh – President, Sangamner Milk Union
- Shripad Chitale – Dairy Industry Expert
- Swapnil Dhamdhere – President, Pune District Milk Union
Impact on Consumers and Farmers
For consumers, this price increase comes at a time when inflation is affecting daily expenses across all sectors. However, dairy farmers argue that the price revision is essential to ensure their financial well-being and maintain milk production standards.
What Lies Ahead?
The revised prices will come into effect from March 15, 2025. Meanwhile, dairy producers are expected to continue discussions with government officials to seek financial relief measures and stricter regulations to improve milk quality and production efficiency.
Consumers can expect further updates in the coming weeks as authorities deliberate on these pressing issues. Stay tuned for more developments in the dairy industry!
