Shimla: In yet another blow to household budgets, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu announced a hike in milk prices while presenting the state Budget for 2025-26 on Monday. With this announcement, the price of cow milk will rise from ₹45 to ₹51 per litre, while buffalo milk will see an increase from ₹55 to ₹61 per litre.
The price hike is expected to put additional financial pressure on middle-class families, who are already grappling with rising costs of essential commodities.
Milk is a staple in most households, and the ₹6 per litre surge could impact daily expenses significantly. Dairy farmers and suppliers cite increased production costs as a major reason behind the hike, including rising fodder prices and transportation expenses.
Sukhu’s budget presentation came with a symbolic gesture as he arrived at the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha in his old Alto car. The move was seen as an attempt to highlight simplicity and connect with common citizens amid economic challenges.
With this price revision, Himachal Pradesh joins other states witnessing a surge in dairy costs. Consumers will now have to adjust their household budgets to accommodate the new rates, making affordability a growing concern for many.
