Karnataka's Milk Price Hike: Farmers Gain, Consumers Pay

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that the Rs 2 hike in milk prices by KMF includes an additional 50 ml per packet, following opposition criticism. The decision aims to manage the state's increased milk production, ensuring farmers' output is not wasted. Opposition parties criticized the timing amid increased fuel costs.

In a strategic move aimed at balancing increased milk production with consumer needs, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday defended the Rs 2 hike in milk prices announced by the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF). The price change, effective June 26, was accompanied by a 50 ml increase in each packet's volume.

The opposition has been vocal, accusing the Congress government of financial insensitivity after recent fuel price hikes. Siddaramaiah clarified, however, that this initiative prioritizes farmers by ensuring their produce is not wasted, as the state experiences a surplus in milk production.

Currently, a 500 ml milk packet, priced at Rs 22, will now cost Rs 24 for 550 ml, and a 1,000 ml packet, previously Rs 42, will be Rs 44 for 1,050 ml. The opposition claims this move imposes additional burdens on already strained consumers, particularly the poor and middle class.