भाषा:

India’s dairy sector enters winter with record export prices for skim milk powder (SMP) on one side and drought and rising feed costs on the other. This is the picture painted in an opinion and outlook piece by Dairy News 7×7 published on 30 October 2026. It argues that thin stocks of SMP and butter leave India exposed, and that how the next ninety days are handled will decide whether this winter is an opportunity or a crisis. The figures below are as reported in that piece, and some come from other sources it cites.

Key facts

ItemDetail
Karnataka Nandini hike₹8 per litre from 1 Nov; toned milk ₹46 to ₹54; ₹7 to farmers (₹35 to ₹42)
Tamil NaduProcurement price up ₹6 in two tranches to ₹44; Aavin revised prices in 23 product categories from 28 Oct
Monsoon and droughtSouthwest monsoon about 15% below normal; six states declared drought for kharif 2026
MaharashtraDrought in 305 talukas; green fodder shortfall about 23%, dry fodder about 21%
SMP at Global Dairy Trade (20 Oct)US$3,975 per tonne, up 3.4%; up about 22.5% over six auctions, about 55% above a year ago
India livestock product exports (Apr to Aug 2026)Up 44% to US$3.13 billion
SMP exportsVolume nearly four times to 8,842 tonnes; ₹257 crore; ₹291 per kg
Dairy exports, September 2026Up 24% to US$55 million (provisional)

These are the piece’s own figures and opinions. Some are provisional or come from third parties.

Why farm and feed costs are in focus

The piece links higher retail prices to drought. It says Karnataka’s daily procurement fell by about 10 lakh litres and that fodder prices have doubled in Maharashtra, with farmers reporting distress cattle sales. It adds that cow milk in Maharashtra fetches ₹42 to ₹44 per litre at 3.5% fat and 8.5% SNF. These are the pressures behind the recent rate increases for farmers.

On the processor side, it notes that margins are being squeezed. Heritage Foods’ revenue rose 19% while net profit fell 39%, and Dodla Dairy’s revenue rose 17% while net profit fell 44%, according to the piece.

The export opportunity and the risk

Global SMP prices have jumped. India’s SMP exports have grown sharply, and the piece says Amul’s powder shipments to the Gulf more than doubled during a West Asia supply crunch. Butter, ghee and milk fats earned ₹986 crore in April to August 2026, with ghee at ₹462 crore. Cheese earned ₹222 crore across 58 countries.

The author’s warning is that exporting heavily now could leave shortages by May, while holding back powder means losing record prices. The piece asks for calibrated exports with a review in February.

What it means for dairy farmers

Higher global prices can lift milk demand and procurement prices, which is good for farmers. But the same piece points to rising feed costs, fodder shortages, consumer resistance to higher prices and milk moving across state lines to higher bidders. For a small farmer, a better milk price helps only if the cost of feeding the animal stays in check. Adulteration risk also rises when fodder is scarce, so keep your own milk quality clean and consistent.

What farmers should do this winter

  • Lock in fodder for winter and summer. Silage, hay and straw bought or made now cost less than emergency purchases in April or May.
  • Track cost per litre every week. Feed price changes fast in a drought. A weekly note shows whether your margin is safe.
  • Watch your dairy’s rate notices. Many dairies are revising prices. Confirm the new fat and SNF rates in writing or on the slip.
  • Protect milk quality. Clean milking, cooling and testing keep your milk eligible for the best rates.
  • Keep animals in good body condition. Winter and fodder stress together can hit fertility and milk. Give a balanced ration and mineral support.
  • Avoid distress sale of animals. Talk to your cooperative or bank about fodder support or credit before selling a good milker.

Frequently asked questions

Why are SMP prices so important for India?

The piece says SMP prices hit a four-year high and Indian SMP exports have grown sharply. Heavy exports could leave domestic stocks thin by May.

Is this a news report or an opinion?

It is an opinion and outlook piece. Its numbers come from the author and the sources it cites, so treat the conclusions as views.

How does this affect my milk rate?

Higher costs and tight supply are pushing dairies to raise procurement prices in some states, but rates differ by dairy, fat and SNF.

Source: Dairy News 7×7 (opinion), 30 Oct 2026. Written by the IMN Pyrophos team in our own words.

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