Karnataka Milk Federation Achieves 52% Growth Amid Summer
The Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) has defied traditional seasonal downturns by reporting a 52% year-on-year growth in milk procurement, reaching 1.2 crore litres daily this week. This unexpected increase comes despite the onset of peak summer temperatures, which typically constrain dairy yields. The rise in volume fr om approximately 85 lakh litres per day in April 2025 to the current 1.3 crore litres is notable.
KMF's Managing Director, B. Shivaswamy, confirmed a 16% increase in procurement over the last few weeks, providing the cooperative with a buffer to expand its value-added product range. This growth is significant given that the 2026 summer was expected to strain supply chains.
In addition to volume growth, KMF is focusing on a high-value, nutrition-first strategy, collaborating with the state health department and the Ministry of Health to fortify its milk products. This aligns with the broader trend in India's dairy sector, wh ere consumer demand is shifting towards functional nutrition.
India's dairy landscape in 2026 is experiencing a 'margin squeeze,' with dairy processors facing increased procurement costs. However, Karnataka's surplus may offer some relief, potentially allowing for the conversion of excess milk into skimmed milk powder or white butter to replenish national stocks.
India's milk production is projected to grow by 5.7% annually through 2026, surpassing the global average. Karnataka's performance positions it as a key driver of this national growth, moving closer to surplus-handling challenges seen in states like Gujarat and Punjab.
