Facing backlash over Nandini price hike, DK Shivakumar seeks curd price cut

Amid criticism from hoteliers and the public over the recent hike in dairy product prices, Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar directed Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) officials to reconsider and reduce the price of curd.Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar said he had instructed KMF officials, who met him on Monday, November 2, to bring down the price of curd.From November 1, the price of one litre of curd was increased from Rs 54 to Rs 68, a hike of Rs 14. The prices of Shubham milk and special toned milk were also increased from Rs 52 to Rs 64.Explaining the rationale behind the price revision, Shivakumar said milk prices vary depending on their fat content. He added that officials would provide a detailed explanation of the different price categories.He also said the increase would benefit 11 lakh dairy farming families in the state. “No one raises an objection when the price of a water bottle goes up. The increase in milk prices will provide support to 11 lakh farming families,” he said.The price hike has drawn criticism from hotel owners and consumers, who questioned the Rs 14 increase in the prices of curd and certain varieties of milk. Meanwhile, some hotels in Bengaluru have increased the prices of coffee, tea and milk by Rs 2 to Rs 3 following the rise in dairy prices.According to reports, the revised prices were based on factors including the cost of procuring milk from farmers, fat content and other expenses.Meanwhile, members of the BJP Mahila Morcha staged a protest at Durgad Bail in Hubballi on Monday against the state government's decision to increase the price of Nandini milk by a minimum of Rs 8 per litre.As part of the protest, the women prepared tea on the road without using milk to highlight the impact of the price hike on ordinary households. They also burnt posters of Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.The protesters criticised the Congress government for increasing the price of an essential commodity, saying the move would put an additional financial burden on households, particularly women and economically weaker sections.