The Karnataka Milk Federation's Bengaluru Milk Union (Bamul) has secured a major contract to supply two lakh kilograms of Nandini ghee every month to the Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative is expected to significantly benefit dairy farmers across the state.
Boosting Dairy Farmers' Income
The supply deal, which began in January 2025, will see Bamul providing high-quality Nandini ghee for the temple's prasadam and other rituals. The ghee will be sourced from milk procured from farmers in Karnataka, ensuring a steady market for their produce. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to strengthen the dairy sector and enhance the livelihoods of rural communities.
Quality Assurance and Logistics
Bamul has assured that the ghee will meet stringent quality standards set by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The union has invested in upgraded processing facilities and cold chain logistics to maintain freshness during transportation. The ghee will be dispatched in tamper-proof containers to ensure purity.
This development comes amid rising demand for Nandini products across India. The Karnataka Milk Federation has been expanding its footprint in neighboring states, leveraging its reputation for quality and affordability.
Economic Impact
Industry experts estimate that the contract will generate annual revenue of over Rs 100 crore for Bamul. This will directly benefit nearly two lakh dairy farmers associated with the union. The move also aligns with the Karnataka government's vision to double farmers' income by 2027.
The supply to Tirupati is expected to stabilize milk prices in the region, as surplus milk will be converted into value-added products like ghee. This will reduce wastage and ensure better returns for farmers.
Future Plans
Bamul plans to increase the supply to three lakh kg per month in the coming months, subject to demand from TTD. The union is also exploring similar partnerships with other major temples and institutions across India. This could open new avenues for Karnataka's dairy industry.
The initiative has been widely praised by farmer organizations and political leaders. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah termed it a 'historic step' for the state's dairy sector. The opposition also supported the move, emphasizing the need for more such market linkages.
