A political controversy has resurfaced in India’s Karnataka state as the government allows Amul, a Gujarat-based dairy brand owned by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), to open kiosks at Bengaluru Metro stations. This move has drawn criticism for allegedly undermining Nandini, the state-run brand operated by the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), raising tensions between local pride and national brands.
A renewed political row has emerged in Karnataka, India, after the state government approved the opening of Amul kiosks at 10 Bengaluru Metro stations, a decision which has reignited tensions with opposition parties. Amul, a leading national dairy brand managed by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), faces resistance over concerns that its expansion could threaten Nandini—the state’s beloved dairy brand owned by the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF).
The controversy has deep political roots. During the run-up to the 2023 state elections, opposition leaders had accused the then BJP government of favoring Amul at the expense of Nandini. Now, with Congress in power, a similar criticism is being leveled, this time by the Janata Dal (Secular) and other opposition parties, who claim the ruling government has compromised Karnataka’s dairy heritage.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar defended the decision, stating that Amul was the only participant in the tendering process for the kiosks. In response to the backlash, he announced that Nandini kiosks would be set up at eight of the same Metro stations, aiming to balance commercial decisions with local sensitivities.
Shivakumar clarified that Amul’s existing kiosks would not be removed, and stressed the need to respect free-market principles while ensuring fair visibility for local products.
This episode has once again brought to the forefront the larger debate between supporting indigenous brands versus encouraging market competition. While Amul remains a symbol of India’s national dairy success, Nandini has long been associated with the livelihoods of Karnataka’s farmers and the pride of the state’s dairy ecosystem.
The political fallout from this development may persist, especially as opposition parties continue to frame the issue around regional identity, farmer support, and government accountability.