First hike in over a year sees high-cream and toned milk rates climb, effective July 1st.
Consumers in Sikkim are now facing increased costs for their daily milk products, as prices for key dairy items rose effective July 1st. This marks the first price adjustment in over a year, following the last change implemented on May 1, 2023. The Sikkim Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union Ltd. officially announced these revised retail rates, impacting both the Gangtok and Jorethang markets, a significant development for local dairy economics.
An official circular issued on June 29 detailed the new pricing structure. Specifically, a 1-litre packet of high-cream milk now retails at Rs 68, an increase from its previous price of Rs 65. For those purchasing smaller quantities, a 500 ml packet of high-cream milk has seen its price rise to Rs 35, up from Rs 33. This adjustment reflects the changing market dynamics and operational costs within the dairy industry.
The price hike also extends to lower-fat options, with a 500 ml packet of toned milk now costing Rs 33, an increase from its prior Rs 31. These revised rates are a direct response to various pressures faced by the milk producers and the cooperative, aiming to ensure the sustainability of milk supply in the region. This affects a wide range of consumers across the state.
Notably, despite the increase in prices for end-consumers, the commission structure for milk-selling agents will remain unchanged. This decision aims to balance the need for increased revenue for the cooperative and farmers without impacting the earnings of the distribution network. The agribusiness model here seeks to absorb rising costs while maintaining distribution incentives.
The timing of this price increase holds symbolic significance as it coincides with Gwala Diwas, a day traditionally dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of dairy farmers and milk producers in the region. This alignment suggests an acknowledgment of the farmers’ efforts and the rising costs of milk production, emphasizing the importance of sustainable pricing for the livelihoods of those in the local dairy sector.
Source: India Today NE: Milk prices go up in Sikkim starting July 1, hike coincides with Gwala Diwas
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