SOURCE :- SIASAT NEWS
Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Hotel Owners’ Association has criticised the Karnataka government’s decision to raise Nandini milk prices by Rs 8 per litre, stating that the unprecedented increase could force hotels across the city to raise the prices of tea, coffee and several food items.
The Cabinet’s decision comes just ahead of Diwali, placing additional pressure on consumers and businesses already grappling with rising commodity prices. Hotel owners said the steep hike would significantly increase operating expenses, particularly for establishments that depend heavily on milk and dairy products.
In a press statement, the association said a limited increase of Rs 2 to Rs 3 per litre would not have necessitated any revision in hotel menu prices. However, the decision to increase the price by Rs 8 would make it difficult for establishments to absorb the additional cost.
The impact would extend beyond tea and coffee to a range of milk-based beverages and food products served in hotels and restaurants.
The association also highlighted the nutritional importance of milk, particularly for children, senior citizens, pregnant women and economically weaker sections. A sharp increase in the price of an essential food product could discourage consumption among sections of the population that need it most.
It urged the government to reconsider the scale of the increase and take steps to ensure that Nandini milk and its products remain affordable to the public.
The association suggested that the government focus on reducing administrative expenditure in the dairy sector while extending financial incentives to farmers. Such measures, it said, could help contain price increases without placing the entire burden on consumers.
The association further noted that rice prices had been increasing without adequate control. The combined effect of higher milk and rice prices was making it increasingly difficult for hotels to maintain existing rates for food and beverages.
The new milk prices will come into effect on November 1, following the Cabinet’s approval.
SOURCE : SIASAT
