Kerala's Milma Set to Implement Necessary Milk Price Hike

The Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (KCMMF), operating under the Milma brand, has announced an impending hike in milk prices. Chairman K S Mani emphasized that the increase is crucial for the cooperative's advancement and for the welfare of dairy farmers. The exact amount of this increase will be determined following a board meeting.

Mani noted that while Milma has the authority to adjust prices independently, they consulted with the government due to the significant impact on consumers. This consultation yielded a favorable response. The need for a price hike had been recognized earlier, but the decision was postponed due to elections and the model code of conduct.

In the financial year 2025-26, Milma reported a 13% increase in milk collection, attributed to the benefits provided to dairy farmers, marking a record achievement. The Ernakulam Regional Co-operative Milk Producers' Union (ERCMPU) had previously protested, urging an immediate price increase in light of rising production costs, including cattle feed and labor.

A committee had been formed to study the price issue, recommending a potential increase of up to Rs 6 per litre. This recommendation highlights the financial challenges facing the dairy sector, which have been exacerbated by the rising costs of essential commodities and services.