Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 28: Karnataka BJP president B Y Vijayendra has hit out at the Congress-led state government over the latest Rs 4 per litre hike in milk prices, accusing it of burdening the common man due to an "empty treasury." The revised prices will take effect from April 1.

Vijayendra criticized the government for continuously increasing the cost of essential commodities, saying, "With an empty treasury, the government is resorting to price hikes as its only survival strategy. Instead of supporting farmers, it is transferring the financial strain onto consumers." He demanded an immediate rollback of the decision.

Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka also slammed the Congress government, pointing out that this is the third milk price hike in 20 months, with a total increase of Rs 9 per litre. "Siddaramaiah's government has repeatedly raised the prices of essential goods, making life unbearable for the poor and middle class," he said.

The state government defended the move, with minister for cooperation K N Rajanna stating that the additional revenue will directly benefit dairy farmers. "Though consumers may feel the pinch, this decision is in the interest of milk producers," he claimed.

With the revision, the price of a one-litre packet of Nandini milk will rise to Rs 48 from Rs 44, while curd prices will also increase by Rs 4. The Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) will now pay farmers Rs 35.68 per litre, up from Rs 31.68.

The decision has drawn criticism from the opposition and consumers alike, especially as it comes just before the Ugadi festival, when demand for dairy products is high.