KMF Reduces Nandini Curd Prices Following Public Backlash
Karnataka Milk Federation cuts curd prices by ₹2 per litre after recent hikes.
1Price Revision Announcement
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced a ₹2 per litre reduction in Nandini curd prices. This decision follows a significant price hike implemented by the Karnataka Milk Federation on 1 November 2026. The intervention aims to address public dissatisfaction regarding the sudden cost increase for essential dairy products across the state.
2Recent Price Trajectory
Before the 1 November revision, one-litre curd packs cost ₹54, while 500-gram packs were priced at ₹28. Following the federation's initial adjustment, prices surged to ₹68 and ₹34 respectively. The new reduction brings the one-litre pack price down to ₹66, partially offsetting the sharp increase that triggered widespread public concern.
3Milk Price Context
The curd price adjustment follows a broader cabinet-approved increase for Nandini milk prices on 29 October. This policy allocated ₹7 per litre directly to dairy farmers, while ₹1 was designated for cooperative operational expenses. These changes were intended to support 11 lakh farmer families and prevent the diversion of milk supplies.
4Market Supply Dynamics
Government officials noted that higher prices in neighbouring states had previously caused milk diversion away from Karnataka. Since the 1 November price hike, approximately 10 lakh litres of milk have reportedly returned to the state supply chain. This shift highlights the sensitivity of dairy logistics to regional price variations and market competition.
5Public and Political Opposition
The price hikes faced immediate resistance, notably from the BJP women's wing, which staged protests at Bengaluru's Freedom Park. Demonstrators demanded a complete rollback of the increased rates. These protests, mirrored in other parts of the state, pressured the government to negotiate the partial price reduction with the Karnataka Milk Federation leadership.
6Farmer Support Rationale
Chief Minister Shivakumar defended the necessity of the original price hike by citing the demands of dairy farmers. Producers had initially sought an increase of ₹12 per litre to sustain operations. The government maintains that the current pricing structure is essential for the economic viability of the state's extensive dairy farming network.
7Fat Content Pricing
Price variations across different milk and curd products are primarily determined by their specific fat content. While the government has provided broad figures, officials indicated that detailed explanations regarding these pricing differences will be shared. Consumers are advised to monitor official KMF notifications for specific updates on product-wise price adjustments.
8Strategic Market Balancing
The situation reflects the complex balance between supporting agricultural livelihoods and managing consumer affordability in the retail sector. By adjusting the curd price while maintaining the milk price hike, the government attempts to appease public sentiment without undermining the financial gains intended for dairy farmers. Future stability depends on sustained supply chain efficiency.
Original article: mint - companies — KMF Reduces Nandini Curd Prices Following Public Backlash