Dakshina Kannada Milk Union Approves Special Rs 1 Per Litre Incentive for Farmers
The administrative board of the Dakshina Kannada Cooperative Milk Producers' Union Ltd (DKMUL) has given its official approval for an additional special milk incentive of Rs 1 per litre. This financial boost is specifically designated for members of milk producer cooperative societies operating under the union's jurisdiction.
Incentive Period and Financial Impact
DKMUL president Raviraj Hegde confirmed that the enhanced incentive will be actively in effect from February 21, 2024, through May 31, 2026. With this revision, the union anticipates disbursing an extra Rs 4.1 lakh on a daily basis. Over the entire incentive period, this is projected to accumulate to approximately Rs 4 crore in total additional payments to dairy farmers.
Addressing Fodder Constraints and Rising Costs
The board's decision was driven by significant challenges faced by dairy farmers, including severe fodder constraints and escalating input costs. Officials highlighted shortages of both green and dry fodder across the two districts covered by DKMUL. Additionally, the high cost of silage was cited as a critical factor impacting farmers' operational expenses.
The primary objective of this incentive is to provide crucial support to farmers, enabling them to maintain their cattle and sustain milk production during the demanding summer months.
Revised Milk Rate Structure
DKMUL has clarified that the additional Rs 1 per litre incentive will be provided over and above the existing quality incentive of Rs 1.5 per litre. This existing incentive is awarded for milk meeting stringent quality parameters of 4.4% Fat and 8.5% SNF (Solids Not Fat).
With the revised incentive structure in place, the effective rate for quality milk will now stand at Rs 41.7 per litre.
Appeal to Farmers and Procurement Status
President Raviraj Hegde made a direct appeal to member farmers, urging them to utilize this incentive period to increase procurement by producing and supplying higher-quality milk. Union officials provided current data, noting that milk procurement currently stands at around 4.1 lakh litres per day.
This figure represents a decrease from the 4.2 lakh litres per day recorded in December. Officials attributed this seasonal drop directly to challenging summer conditions affecting production.
Meeting Demand with External Supplies
The total daily demand within DKMUL's operational network is approximately 5 lakh litres per day. To address the existing shortfall between demand and local procurement, the union is supplementing supplies with milk sourced from neighboring milk unions.
- Supplies are being procured from the Hassan Milk Union
- Additional support comes from the Shivamogga Milk Union
- The Mandya Milk Union is also contributing to meet the demand
This strategic approach ensures that consumer demand continues to be met while local farmers receive enhanced support through the newly approved incentive program.
