Karnataka Hikes Nandini Milk Prices by ₹8/Litre From November 1; ‘Diwali Gift’ From Congress?

Karnataka consumers are set to pay ₹8 more per litre for Nandini milk from November 1, following the State Cabinet's decision on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

The hike will raise the price of basic toned milk from ₹46 to ₹54 per litre, marking the steepest single increase in recent years.

According to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, ₹7 of the increase will go directly to milk producers, while ₹1 will be allocated to dairy cooperative unions to cover operational expenses, including transportation and packaging.

The government has cited rising production costs, drought conditions and a decline in daily milk procurement of nearly 10 lakh litres as reasons for the revision. The decision follows demands from dairy farmers and milk unions for higher procurement prices.

A look at recent milk price hikes

2022: ₹3/litre

2023: ₹3/litre

2024: ₹2/litre (alongside additional quantity)

2025: ₹4/litre

2026: ₹8/litre

The latest revision adds to the burden on household budgets, even as the government maintains that the move will support dairy farmers.

Political reaction: The hike has prompted criticism, with opponents branding it a “Diwali gift from Congress” to consumers.

The revised rates are scheduled to take effect on November 1, 2026.