Rahul Gandhi Vows Support to Gujarat Dairy Farmers

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has pledged his full support to dairy farmers in Gujarat who are protesting against inadequate milk procurement prices and alleged political control over the dairy cooperative sector by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During a visit to the state, Gandhi met with cooperative sector leaders and members of various milk unions, acknowledging their significant challenges in obtaining remunerative prices for their milk.

The discontent among Gujarat dairy farmers has been palpable, culminating in recent protests, notably outside Sabar Dairy in Himmatnagar, over the crucial issue of milk procurement prices. Farmers have voiced concerns that the BJP exercises undue influence over the dairy cooperatives in Gujarat, including those affiliated with the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets products under the renowned Amul brand.

Allegations from the dairy farmers include claims that the ruling party dictates milk prices to their disadvantage, and that hiring practices within the dairy industry are biased, favoring only those associated with the BJP. This perceived lack of autonomy and fair dealing within the cooperative structure, traditionally farmer-controlled, has become a central point of contention for dairy producers in the state.

Rahul Gandhi encouraged the dairy farmers to organize and fight for their rights, promising to stand by them in their struggle. He drew a parallel to the historic Amul movement, suggesting that a similar movement might be necessary to "free the dairy sector from the control of one party.” This political engagement aims to galvanize support for the Congress ahead of the 2027 Gujarat Assembly elections.