The Mumbai Milk Producers Association (MMPA) has announced a 2 per cent increase in the wholesale price of buffalo milk in the city. This change will come into effect on September 1, just before the start of the festival season. The previous price was INR 87 per litre. With the new increase, the price will rise to INR 89 per litre.
This decision by MMPA was made unanimously and will impact over 3,000 retailers in the city. As a result, retail prices could see a significant hike. Depending on the area and local demand, consumers might pay between INR 93 and INR 98 per litres.
Retail prices usually see an increase of INR 4-10 above the wholesale rate. This is the second price increase within a year. Earlier, the price of buffalo milk rose from INR 85 to INR 87 per litre.
This price hike comes at a time when the city is preparing for major festivals like Ganeshotsav, Navratri, and Diwali. Reportedly, the cost of other kinds of milk and milk-based products is also expected to rise. This will likely increase the financial burden on families during the festive period.
In January 2024, the Maharashtra cabinet had announced a subsidy of INR 5 per litre for farmers who supply milk to private projects and cooperative societies. This decision was made to support the dairy farmers.