Milk Price Hike: Devbhog Milk in Chhattisgarh Gets Rs 2 More Expensive, Burdening the Common Man
As inflation continues to soar across the country, the common man is already struggling, and now, a price hike in an essential commodity like milk has further broken their back. In Chhattisgarh, the local brand Devbhog has increased the price of milk by Rs 2 per liter. The cost of one liter of milk has risen from Rs 50 to Rs 52, with the new rates effective from May 20, 2025.
Where people once bought milk for their morning tea and children’s needs without much thought, they are now forced to meticulously calculate their daily budgets. Milk, a staple in every kitchen, is increasingly becoming a luxury.
Milk Price Hike at a Glance
- Brand: Devbhog (Chhattisgarh’s popular local brand)
- Old Price: Rs 50 per liter
- New Price: Rs 52 per liter
- Date of Increase: May 20, 2025
- Brands That Already Raised Prices: Amul, Mother Dairy, Verka
Why the Milk Price Hike?
The increase in Devbhog milk prices is not sudden but driven by necessity. Several factors have contributed to this, with rising production costs being the primary reason. Experts point out that the expenses incurred in milk production have surged significantly in recent months.
Key Reasons:
- Rising Cost of Animal Feed:
The price of fodder for cows and buffaloes has increased by 30-40% over the past six months, significantly raising expenses for dairy farmers. - Diesel and Transportation Costs:
Diesel is used to transport milk from farms to collection centers and then to the market. With diesel prices rising, transportation costs have also shot up. - Production and Processing Expenses:
The processing of milk for packaging involves costs for electricity, machinery, and labor. Inflation has driven up these expenses as well. - Impact of Summer:
During summer, milk production from animals decreases, leading to a reduced supply while demand remains constant. This creates additional pressure on prices.
Major Brands Already Raised Prices
Devbhog made this move after major national brands like Amul and Mother Dairy had already increased their prices.
- Amul: From May 1, 2025, Amul Gold, Taza, Slim and Trim, and other varieties saw a Rs 2 per liter price hike.
- Mother Dairy: Prices were increased starting April 30, 2025.
- Verka: The Punjab and North India-based Verka brand also raised its prices.
Under pressure to either absorb losses or increase prices, Devbhog opted for a Rs 2 per liter hike.
Shopkeepers’ Plight
Rajesh Verma, a kirana store owner in Raipur, shares,
“Amul and Mother Dairy had already raised their prices, and now Devbhog has followed suit. Customers are arguing at shops, demanding milk at old rates. But how can we provide it? We’re getting it at higher prices too.”
Sandeep Yadav, a shopkeeper from Durg district, adds,
“Customers are now buying less milk. Those who used to take 2 liters are now buying 1 liter or even half a liter.”
The Common Man’s Struggle
Milk is not just a beverage in Indian households but a key source of nutrition. It is essential for children, the elderly, and the sick. However, with prices soaring, people are forced to cut back on consumption.
Anita Sahu, a private school teacher, says,
“Milk used to be a necessity, but now it feels like a luxury. We’ve reduced the amount of tea we make, and even the kids are getting less.”
Radha Devi, a homemaker, laments,
“Dal, vegetables, oil—everything was already getting expensive. Now milk prices have gone up too. Our monthly budget is completely disrupted.”
Middle and Low-Income Groups Hit Hardest
In a state like Chhattisgarh, most families belong to the low or middle-income groups. With limited earnings and rising expenses, every rupee matters.
Shyamlal Sahu, an auto driver, shares,
“I barely earn Rs 300-350 a day. From that, I have to cover rent, children’s fees, and groceries. Now, with milk getting costlier, we’ll have to give less to the kids.”
Anger Spills Over on Social Media
The frustration over inflation is now visible on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, where people are voicing their discontent.
One Twitter user wrote:
“First petrol, then vegetables, now milk! It’s becoming impossible for the common man to survive. What is the government doing?”
Another user remarked sarcastically:
“Looks like morning tea is now only for the rich.”
What Are the Alternatives?
When essential items become expensive, the common man is left with limited options:
- Buying from Local Goshalas:
Some people are turning to private goshalas (cow shelters) for milk, where prices are slightly lower. However, accessing them daily and waiting for supply isn’t feasible for everyone. - Reducing Milk Consumption:
Many families are prioritizing milk for children and cutting back on their own tea or coffee consumption. - Switching to Powdered or Toned Milk:
Some are opting for toned or powdered milk instead of full-cream milk, though this isn’t preferred by all.
What Is the Government’s Role?
So far, the government has not issued any direct statement regarding milk price hikes. However, experts believe the government needs to intervene.
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