Fresh milk prices in parts of Bhiwandi and surrounding Mumbai fringe markets have climbed sharply to around ₹90 per litre just before the start of Ramzan, raising concerns among consumers and households about rising dairy costs. Dealers and retailers attributed the surge to seasonal demand pressures, higher procurement costs and constrained local supplies during the holy month’s peak consumption period. (Free Press Journal)
Traders reported that as fasting and iftar needs rise during Ramzan, demand for fresh milk and dairy beverages typically increases, prompting retailers to adjust prices upward. In some localities, small vendors said they were forced to cover higher procurement rates from chilling centres and reduced availability from rural suppliers — factors that together pushed retail prices beyond ₹85-₹90 per litre, compared with averages closer to ₹70-₹80 in recent weeks.
Consumers expressed frustration, noting that the price rise comes at a time when household budgets are already stretched by food inflation and essential spending. “We depend on milk every day for tea, breakfast and kids’ nutrition,” one resident said. “When prices rise so quickly, it squeezes the family budget, especially for middle- and lower-income households.”
Local milk suppliers said that while supply has remained steady in terms of volumes, logistics costs — including fuel, refrigerated transport and labour — have increased, adding to the cost base for fresh milk. Some dealers also pointed to higher bulk buyouts by retailers anticipating Ramzan demand as a factor tightening near-term availability and upward pressure on prices at retail counters.
Dairy sector analysts note that seasonal festivals and religious observances often drive short-term volatility in fresh milk prices in India, as cultural consumption patterns boost demand for chilled milk, sweets and beverages. However, such seasonal price pressures can expose structural weaknesses, including limited cold-chain infrastructure, fragmented supply routes and insufficient price stabilisation mechanisms at the producer and processor levels.
For consumers, the price spike ahead of Ramzan underscores how fresh milk — a staple food item — is sensitive to both demand shocks and supply-chain cost fluctuations. Observers suggest that greater investment in cold chain management and coordinated procurement systems could help moderate short-term price swings, benefiting both producers and end consumers.
Source : Dairynews7x7 Feb 20th 2026 Read full story here
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