Karnataka CM justifies ₹8 milk price hike to support drought-hit farmers

The Karnataka cabinet approved the milk price increase across all categories on Thursday, a move Shivakumar said was necessary to prevent further deterioration in the state's dairy sector. Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister noted that milk producers had initially sought a hike of ₹12 per litre, making the ₹8 increase a middle ground that balances consumer concerns with farmer welfare.

Shivakumar attributed the price adjustment to multiple interconnected challenges facing Karnataka's dairy industry. Drought conditions have severely impacted milk production, while farmers have increasingly begun transporting their milk to neighbouring states where prices are significantly higher. "Milk availability is declining in Karnataka because milk producers are taking their stock to other states," he explained, emphasizing that without intervention, the state risked losing its dairy farmers.

Beyond economic considerations, the Chief Minister linked the decision to the government's cultural commitment to cattle protection. He framed the price hike as necessary not merely for commercial viability but for ensuring cattle receive adequate nutrition through fodder and other essential resources. "If we want to protect our cows, we must provide them with good food. To provide them with food, we need fodder. For fodder to be available, farmers must be in a good financial position," Shivakumar stated.

The decision reflects mounting pressures on Karnataka's agricultural sector as drought conditions persist across the state, affecting both crop and livestock production.