Indian state government seeks review of Rs 14 curd-price increase

The price of curd increased from Rs 54 to Rs 68 per litre after the government raised milk prices by Rs 8. A half-litre packet of curd now sells for Rs 34, compared with Rs 28 previously.

Speaking in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said curd had become too costly for consumers. He said KMF would examine his request to reconsider the increase.

On milk prices, Shivakumar attributed the decision to the effects of higher fuel costs on dairy farmers. He acknowledged public anger over the increase but said the government had reached its decision after detailed discussions.

He also drew a comparison with bottled mineral water, saying there had been no complaints when its price increased following the central government's decision on goods and services tax.

Addressing the prospect of higher bus fares, Shivakumar said the state government was providing special grants to keep state buses operating. Describing the financial situation as dire, he said transport corporations had been allowed to determine their own pricing.