Due to the ongoing conflict between America and Iran in the Middle East, the supply of oil and gas has been disrupted. Due to the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, crude oil prices remain around $92–$100 per barrel. With disruptions in shipping operations and rising costs of domestic transportation, there are fears that inflation may soon impact our daily meals. However, amidst this situation, some relief news has also emerged. It is expected that the prices of milk, curd, cheese and other dairy products in the country will not increase at present.
‘Procurement, processing and supply of milk remains normal’
The central government on Tuesday said that despite the ongoing crisis in West Asia, procurement, processing and supply of milk is continuing normally across the country. Pooja Rustagi, director of the Central Animal Husbandry and Dairying Department (AHD), confirmed that the prices of milk and dairy products remained stable. There has been no disruption in supply to the market, and dairy farmers are getting paid regularly even during this crisis.
Emphasis on maintaining smooth dairy supply chain
Senior official Pooja Rustagi said that the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is continuously monitoring the situation, and several proactive steps have been taken to ensure the smooth functioning of the dairy supply chain. He informed that recently a meeting was held with various state milk associations and unions across the country to review the availability of milk. Furthermore, the possible impact of the Middle East crisis on the dairy sector was also discussed during the meeting.
Dairy industry urged to use PNG instead of LPG
Although the commercial and industrial LPG supply situation in the country has improved significantly, the supply operations are still not completely normal. As a result, the Central Government wants to promote the use of PNG (Piped Natural Gas) as an alternative to LPG. AHD director Pooja Rustagi said the dairy industry should opt for PNG wherever possible. He further confirmed that the dairy industry is currently not facing any difficulties with regard to supply of fuel or gas. He said that the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is continuously monitoring the prevailing situation and taking all necessary steps to ensure smooth functioning of the dairy value chain. The Animal Husbandry Department is also holding regular meetings with the stakeholders.