Karnataka Announces Milk Price Hike of ₹8 Per Liter Starting November 1

Bengaluru, October 29 (Daily Kiran) : The Karnataka government has announced an increase in milk prices by ₹8 per liter, effective November 1. This adjustment will see farmers receiving ₹7 more, while dairy cooperatives will gain ₹1.

With this change, the price paid to farmers will rise from ₹35 to ₹42 per liter. Including the current subsidy of ₹5 from the government, farmers will ultimately receive ₹47 per liter.

N. Cheluvarayaswamy, the state’s Minister for Water Resources, defended the price hike, stating it aims to improve the financial situation of farmers and safeguard their interests. Speaking to reporters at Vidhana Soudha, he emphasized that the decision is historic and ensures farmers benefit from the increase.

He posed a rhetorical question, reflecting on his own family’s farming background: “If my father receives ₹7 more, what’s the harm in urban consumers paying an additional ₹1 for milk? Should we hesitate to support our own families?”

In a separate matter, Cheluvarayaswamy addressed allegations involving former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and a purported fake video. He confirmed that investigations are ongoing into those who created and disseminated the footage, described as a ‘sting operation.’

He stated, “Those who made this fake video are guilty, and those who spread it share equal responsibility. We now have information about those who leaked it, and legal action will be taken against those circulating it on social media.” He assured that Siddaramaiah’s public image would not be tarnished by these attempts, as the public would not accept such tactics.

The minister alleged that the video was produced to target Siddaramaiah despite a lack of evidence against him, urging those involved to consider the consequences of their actions against a seasoned politician.

Cheluvarayaswamy also revealed that some individuals linked to the JDS’s social media wing have been arrested, while others remain at large. He urged the public to await the conclusion of the investigation for the full truth to emerge.

Regarding the demand for an increase in sugarcane prices, he noted that the final decision rests with the central government, which is responsible for setting the minimum support price (MSP). He indicated that the state government would cooperate with the center on this matter and mentioned that the Chief Minister has already intervened, putting pressure on the central authorities.

He concluded with a call for the central government to stand by the farmers of Karnataka.