Kisan Manch Uttarakhand has stepped up its demand for higher milk procurement rates from Aanchal, saying livestock farmers are facing mounting expenses without a corresponding rise in their income. The organisation warned that a larger agitation could follow if farmers do not receive what it describes as their rightful share.
The demand was raised in Haldwani by Kartik Upadhyay, state president of Kisan Manch Uttarakhand and founder of the Kisan Makan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti. In a statement, he described the financial condition of livestock owners as increasingly difficult and called for an immediate review of the rate paid for their milk.
Why farmers are seeking a rate revision
According to Upadhyay, spending on fodder, straw, medicines for cattle and veterinary services has continued to rise. He said these costs have made animal husbandry a loss-making activity for many farmers, while the price received for milk has not increased substantially.
The farmers’ platform also questioned the difference between the rate at which milk is purchased from producers and the price paid by consumers in the market. Upadhyay said this gap has not translated into an income increase for milk-producing farmers that matches their expenses.
The comments place the focus on the procurement rate paid to producers rather than only on the final retail price. The group’s stated demand is that Aanchal management should raise the amount farmers receive for the milk they supply.
Warning to Aanchal management
Upadhyay cautioned Aanchal management that farmers would not accept what he described as a system based on their exploitation. He urged the management to choose dialogue and a solution instead of allowing the dispute to intensify.
The organisation said it would pursue a stronger struggle if its demand was not addressed. The available statement does not specify a deadline, a proposed revised rate or the form and date of any planned protest.
For livestock farmers in Uttarakhand, the issue concerns the balance between daily animal-care expenses and earnings from milk sales. Any change in procurement rates would directly affect the amount producers receive from the dairy supply chain, but no decision by Aanchal management has been reported in the available material.
Conclusion
Kisan Manch Uttarakhand is seeking an immediate increase in Aanchal’s milk procurement rates, citing rising operating costs and inadequate growth in farmer earnings. The group has called for dialogue while warning of further struggle if its demand remains unresolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who has demanded higher milk procurement rates?
Kisan Manch Uttarakhand has made the demand. Its state president, Kartik Upadhyay, raised the issue in a statement.
Q. Where was the demand raised?
The issue was raised in Haldwani.
Q. Which organisation is being asked to increase the rate?
The demand has been directed at Aanchal management, described as the management of Uttarakhand’s state dairy brand.
Q. Why are farmers seeking higher rates?
The organisation says fodder, straw, cattle medicines and veterinary fees have become more expensive, while milk earnings have not risen proportionately.
Q. What has Kisan Manch warned?
It has warned that farmers will launch a stronger struggle if they do not receive what it considers their rightful share.
Q. What has Kartik Upadhyay advised Aanchal management?
He has urged the management to pursue dialogue and a solution to the farmers’ concerns.
