Dairy import talks opposed by the industry

Amul, the country’s biggest milk brand, and its parent firm, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), have staunchly opposed the proposal to import dairy products from New Zealand and Australia. This deal is likely to materialize as soon as India signs on the dotted line of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

 The industry is apprehensive that import of cheaper milk powder will be detrimental for the livelihood of India’s dairy farming community, which is already in a macabre state. “Our country will be again pushed into a state of import dependence, jeopardising nutritional security,” notes NDDB chairman Dilip Rath.