Rising Milk Prices to Impact Household Budgets Across India
India’s two leading dairy brands, Amul and Mother Dairy, have increased milk prices by ₹2 per litre with effect from May 14, 2026. The decision is expected to put additional pressure on household budgets, especially as milk is a daily necessity in most Indian homes.
Both companies stated that the price hike was necessary due to rising procurement, packaging, transportation, and operational costs. The revised rates are applicable across major milk variants and markets in India.
Why Have Milk Prices Increased?
The companies cited several reasons for the increase:
- Higher prices of cattle feed
- Increased transportation costs
- Rising packaging expenses
- Greater payments to dairy farmers
Amul said that around 80 paise of every rupee paid by consumers goes directly to milk producers, helping ensure better compensation for farmers and encouraging higher milk production.
Revised Amul Milk Prices
After the latest increase, some popular Amul milk variants will cost:
- Amul Gold (500 ml): ₹36
- Amul Taaza (500 ml): ₹30
- Amul Cow Milk (500 ml): ₹30
- Amul Buffalo Milk (500 ml): ₹39
These prices may vary slightly by city and distribution channel.
Mother Dairy New Milk Rates
Mother Dairy has also raised prices by ₹2 per litre on key variants, including:
- Full Cream Milk
- Toned Milk
- Double Toned Milk
- Cow Milk
The revised rates are applicable primarily in Delhi-NCR and other markets where Mother Dairy operates.
Impact on Consumers
Milk is a staple item used daily for tea, coffee, breakfast, and cooking. Even a small increase can significantly affect monthly household expenses, particularly for families with children and elderly members.
The hike may also contribute to broader food inflation, as dairy products such as curd, paneer, and sweets could become more expensive in the coming weeks.
Industry Perspective
This is Amul’s first major milk price increase since May 2025. The company emphasized that the increase is modest compared to overall food inflation and is intended to support millions of dairy farmers associated with the cooperative network.
