Thiruvananthapuram: Consumers in Kerala will soon have to pay more for milk as the Milma Board of Directors has decided to increase the price of Milma milk by Rs 4 per litre. The crucial decision was taken during a board meeting held today, following the state government’s approval to implement the hike.
Key Highlights:
- Price Hike: Rs 4 per litre.
- Reason: To support dairy farmers facing financial struggles.
- Effective Date: Likely from May 1 (subject to Election Commission approval) or after the Model Code of Conduct ends.
Background of the Decision The move comes as a major relief to dairy farmers in the state. Various regional dairy unions have been consistently urging the government to increase milk prices to help farmers cope with rising production costs. Initially, Milma had demanded a price hike ranging from Rs 4 to Rs 6 per litre.
Since the elections were approaching, the government had temporarily withheld permission for the price hike. This delay even led to public protests, with the Ernakulam regional union recently staging a demonstration at the Milma headquarters. Considering the severe crisis faced by the farmers and the continuous demands from Milma, the government finally gave the green light for the hike.
When Will the New Price Take Effect? Although the decision has been finalized, an official implementation date was not announced today due to the existing election Model Code of Conduct.
The new prices are expected to be officially rolled out once the code of conduct is lifted. However, reports suggest that if the Election Commission grants special permission, the revised price of milk could come into effect as early as May 1.
While the decision brings much-needed relief to the dairy farmers, it is expected to impact the monthly household budgets of ordinary citizens across the state.
