Karnataka Milk Federation’s (KMF) Nandini, one of India’s leading dairy brands, traces its origins to a modest dairy facility in Kudige, Kodagu, Karnataka. Established in 1955, this facility played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s cooperative dairy movement. Despite Nandini’s remarkable growth, the historical site has been neglected, prompting calls for restoration.
In Kudige, a small town in Kodagu, Karnataka, an aging dairy facility stands as a silent witness to the origins of Karnataka Milk Federation’s (KMF) Nandini brand. Established in 1955 as Karnataka’s first dairy cooperative, this facility played a crucial role in revolutionizing the state’s dairy industry. Once a hub of activity, the site now lies in neglect while a modern dairy facility operates just 500 meters away.
A Historic Landmark in Decay
The Kudige dairy, inaugurated on July 24, 1955, marked a turning point for Karnataka’s dairy sector. Local farmers supplied fresh milk to this cooperative, which was then processed and distributed across Kodagu. Despite its historical significance, the old facility—now managed by the Hassan Cooperative Milk Producers Union (a part of KMF)—has been left to deteriorate.
Residents, including Malavika, an employee at the Animal Husbandry Department, emphasize the site’s importance. “My father worked here when it was fully operational. Now, the structure is crumbling,” she said. Local farmer Rudrappa K. has urged authorities to restore the site, suggesting it be converted into a museum showcasing Karnataka’s dairy movement.
From Kudige to National and Global Recognition
KMF was established in 1974 as the Karnataka Dairy Development Corporation (KDDC) under a World Bank-funded project and was later renamed in 1984. Today, KMF operates 15 milk unions, representing over 2.8 million dairy farmers. The Nandini brand has gained national and international recognition, sponsoring Scotland and Ireland’s cricket teams in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and expanding its presence in Delhi.
Former KMF Managing Director A.S. Premnath, a native of Kudige, recalled, “KMF’s growth started here. Kudige’s dairy was instrumental in laying the foundation for Karnataka’s cooperative dairy model.”
Growth Amid Challenges
In 2024, KMF reported a 14% increase in milk procurement and a 10% rise in sales. However, financial difficulties persist due to an unsold stockpile of skimmed milk powder. Many of Karnataka’s 15 milk unions have reduced procurement prices, impacting farmers’ earnings. Despite a ₹2 per liter price increase last year, farmers argue that it remains insufficient, especially as government incentives have remained unchanged for over a decade.
Farmers’ leader Kurubur Shanthakumar criticized the government for delayed payments, stating that 90% of Karnataka’s dairy farmers are women. “The government must prioritize timely disbursement of incentives,” he urged.
‘Nandini’—A Name Chosen by Consumers
Interestingly, the name ‘Nandini’ was selected by consumers. In 1983, KMF invited the public to suggest a brand name, and ‘Nandini’ emerged as the top choice, reflecting the people’s trust in the cooperative.
A Call for Restoration
As Karnataka’s dairy industry continues to expand, the historical Kudige facility remains neglected. Farmers and residents hope that the government and KMF will take steps to preserve the site, ensuring that Nandini’s origins are honored and remembered for future generations.
