Amul, the largest dairy brand in India, is set to make a foray into the milk and curd market of Bengaluru, which is currently dominated by Nandini, operated by the Karnataka Milk Federation. This move has caused concerns among the farmers of Karnataka, who have built Nandini as their own brand, with senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah slamming the BJP for destroying the local brand to make way for Amul.
The state government has promised to safeguard the interests of Nandini and its farmers. Cooperation Minister ST Somashekar has assured that the government will not hesitate to step up in case of any threat to the state’s brand. The minister also said that Amul will not be a competition to Nandini, as there is a difference in quality and prices.
The milk and curd market of Karnataka has been predominantly controlled by Nandini, but Amul has been selling its dairy products in the state for many years. Amul’s Managing Director Jayen Mehta is optimistic about the state accepting the brand and claims that Amul and KMF have a good relationship. Mehta also said that Amul will be selling milk only through quick commerce and e-commerce routes and not through vendors or other retailers.
However, the entry of Amul into the Bengaluru market has raised concerns among the farmers of Karnataka, who fear that this could be a ploy to phase out their own brand. JD(S) has tweeted that this move seems to be part of an evil plan to phase out Nandini and has urged the government to take action.