Pawar hints at milk price hike in North India

“If we cannot meet the demand of milk domestically,it may lead to imports of milk,” National Dairy Development Board chairperson Amrita Patel said at the same function.

Regarding steps to check the price rise,Pawar put the onus on state governments. “It (milk prices) is a state subject. We don’t take decision here. Some states have said that three-four months back they had raised milk prices which had improved the supply.”

In the last meeting of Cabinet Committee of Prices (CCP),where the Centre took price control measures for sugar,pulses and cereals,there were no decisions taken on banning of export of milk products that could have ensured more milk availability to the consumers.

“Since a large proportion of small and marginal farmers depend on dairy and animal husbandry for their livelihood,we decided to go slow on milk and milk products,” Pawar had told reporters on January 13.

Official sources had confirmed that government was contemplating to impose a ban on export of casein and milk powder to increase domestic availability of milk. However,the CCP did not take a decision on this count.

The milk price in North India is already heading to touch Rs 30 per litre — up from Rs 25 a litre a year ago.

Congress targets Pawar,demands solutions

NEW DELHI: Making a veiled attack on Food and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar’s remark that north India faced rising milk prices due to shortage,the Congress on Wednesday said those who identify the problems should also provide solutions.

“While there may be undoubtedly a problem because of physical and product constraints like demand and supply,those who identify the problems must work towards providing an expeditious solutions,” Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said without naming Pawar.

Singhvi,however,refused to accept Pawar’s view that the government was not doing anything to check rising prices of essential commodities. “…it (government) is trying (to check prices) but we will like to see momentum in efforts and above all fast results,” he said.

Asked whether the party was satisfied with Pawar’s performance and whether it was considering replacing him,Singhvi chose to steer clear stating that he would not make any subjective comments. He said the Congress wanted fast results from the government.

Asked about the suggestion made by Vice-President Hamid Ansari to make intelligence accountable to Parliament,Singhvi welcomed it and expressed happiness that the issue had initiated a debate.