THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram regional union governing body meeting recommended a milk price hike by Rs 10 per litre, citing the increase in production costs. The Ernakulam regional union has also recommended a price hike. The Malabar Union decided to meet on the 28th of this month.

It is reported that the Milma board of directors will decide on the unions' recommendation next week. The Thiruvananthapuram regional union governing body put forward the predicament of small farmers and farm owners, who are now withdrawing from milk production, citing the denial of a fair price. The Milma Federation had earlier asked the unions to examine the matter and make a decision.

Full-fat milk is sold at Rs 56 per litre. Farmers are demanding that this be increased to Rs 60. If it is increased by Rs 10, it will be above Rs 60 per litre. The director board is apprehensive of the suggestion to increase the rate by over Rs 10.