Maharashtra Faces Milk Crisis Amid Drought Conditions
Severe drought has led to a significant decline in milk production in Maharashtra, raising concerns over rising prices and farmer livelihoods.
265 out of 358 talukas in Maharashtra declared drought-affected.
Rising costs of cattle feed and fodder expected to increase milk prices.
Daily milk production in Maharashtra stands at approximately 17 million litres.
Maharashtra is grappling with a potential milk crisis as severe drought conditions have affected 265 of its 358 talukas. The regions of Marathwada and Vidarbha are particularly hard-hit, with farmers facing significant challenges due to poor rainfall, especially during August and September. This situation has forced many dairy farmers to shift their focus towards milch cattle as a means of sustaining their livelihoods.
The drought has led to a substantial drop in farm incomes, compelling agriculturists to prioritize dairy farming. However, the rising costs of essential inputs such as cattle feed and fodder are expected to drive up production costs, which will likely result in increased retail prices for milk. Currently, dairy farmers report that the cost of producing a litre of cow milk ranges from Rs 28 to Rs 30, while buffalo milk production costs can reach Rs 40 to Rs 45 per litre.
In Mumbai, the retail price for cow milk is around Rs 60 per litre, while buffalo milk is priced at approximately Rs 78. The Food and Drug Administration's crackdown on milk adulteration has also contributed to rising procurement prices, which have increased from Rs 36-37 for cow milk and Rs 51-52 for buffalo milk earlier this year. Stakeholders warn that without intervention, these trends could lead to further price hikes.
Raju Shetti, a farmer leader, highlighted the critical need for the state government to ensure the availability of drinking water and fodder for farmers in drought-affected areas. The founder of Kutwal Foods, Prakash Kutwal, noted that farmers are increasingly focusing on dairy production during droughts, often repurposing wilted crops as cattle feed. He cautioned that if input costs continue to rise, retail prices will inevitably follow suit.
As the flush season for milk production approaches, typically starting in November and lasting until March, the implications of these rising costs could extend beyond just milk prices. Increased milk prices may lead to higher costs for dairy products such as paneer and khoya, affecting consumers significantly. With Maharashtra's daily milk production hovering around 17 million litres, the situation remains precarious as farmers navigate the challenges posed by drought and rising operational costs.
