The Karnataka government has directed the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to allow Nandini kiosks at eight Metro stations in Bengaluru, a move likely to stir controversy amid an ongoing debate over the entry of Amul into the state’s dairy retail space.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also oversees Bengaluru development, announced on Wednesday that the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) has been instructed to submit applications to BMRCL for opening Nandini milk kiosks at select Metro stations. He further stated that BMRCL officials have been directed to approve these kiosks at eight out of the ten locations previously earmarked for Amul outlets.
Speaking to reporters near his official residence, Shivakumar addressed questions about Amul’s presence at Metro stations. “BMRCL had floated tenders, but only Amul responded. KMF had not applied earlier. We have now asked KMF to submit their application,” he said. “Amul has already opened outlets at two stations. It wouldn’t be appropriate to shut them down now, but KMF should be allowed at the remaining eight.”
BMRCL had earlier signed a licence agreement with Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd, the parent body of Amul, for setting up ‘Amul Retail Kiosks’ at 10 Metro stations including Pattandur Agrahara, Indiranagar, Benniganahalli, Biyappanahalli, Trinity Junction, Sir M Visveswaraya, Majestic, National College, Jayanagar, and Banashankari. These kiosks offer a wide range of Amul products including dairy items, chocolates, snacks, and organic goods.
The move had sparked protests from Kannada groups and opposition parties. The JD(S) criticised the Congress-led government, accusing it of sidelining Karnataka’s homegrown brand, Nandini, in favour of Amul, a Gujarat-based cooperative. They also alleged that Deputy CM Shivakumar had compromised state pride for monetary gain and warned of agitations if Nandini’s market interests were undermined.
Kannada activists echoed similar sentiments, demanding the government revoke the permissions granted to Amul and prioritise Nandini outlets instead.
The issue has reignited the larger political and cultural debate around regional economic sovereignty, with the government now walking a tightrope to balance business decisions and public sentiment.
