Karnataka hikes Nandini milk prices by Rs 8 per litre from November 1

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Karnataka Cabinet on October 29 approved an Rs 8 per litre hike in Nandini milk prices, with revised rates set to take effect from November 1.

The price of Nandini’s basic toned milk, sold in the blue packet, will increase from Rs 46 to Rs 54 per litre.

Of the Rs 8 increase, Rs 7 will be passed on to dairy farmers, while the remaining Rs 1 will go to milk unions, Karnataka Minister Krishna Byre Gowda told reporters after the Cabinet meeting.

The Cabinet had approved the proposal on October 6, but announcement was delayed due to Model Code of Conduct was in force for Legislative Council elections.

Milk unions had sought a price revision citing rising costs of cattle feed, fodder, medicines, transportation and plastic packaging, along with fodder shortages caused by drought.

“The base rate will increase by Rs 8. We have unanimously decided to give Rs 7 to farmers and Rs 1 to the union,” Byre Gowda said.

He added that nearly 10 lakh farmer families depend on dairy farming for their livelihoods, with many relying on the income to meet household and medical expenses.

Previous price hikes

The latest increase will be the fifth hike in Nandini milk prices in recent years.

In March 2025, prices were raised by Rs 4 per litre. In June 2024, the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) increased prices by Rs 2 per litre while offering an additional 50 ml of milk for every litre purchased. The additional quantity was subsequently withdrawn.

In November 2023, prices were increased by Rs 3 per litre, following a similar hike in November 2022.

Milk unions had sought an increase of Rs 8-10 per litre, citing rising input costs and the difficulties faced by farmers due to drought.