The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar, has addressed concerns over the presence of Amul kiosks in Bengaluru’s Namma Metro stations. The issue arose after Amul, a Gujarat-based dairy brand, was allotted space in metro stations through a global tender process, while Karnataka’s homegrown dairy brand, Nandini, was not. Shivakumar clarified that the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) had issued tenders for retail spaces at 10 metro stations, but only Amul had submitted applications. The Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), which owns the Nandini brand, did not apply during the tender process.
As a result, Amul has already opened stores at two metro stations, and Shivakumar stated that shutting down these existing outlets would not be appropriate. Instead, he directed the KMF to apply for the remaining spots, and Nandini outlets will be established at eight metro stations. The tender process involved kiosks at several metro stations, including Pattandur Agrahara, Indiranagar, and Banashankari.
The issue has sparked a political debate, with opposition BJP leaders accusing the Congress government of favoring Amul over Nandini. Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan criticized the state government on social media, labeling it a betrayal of Karnataka’s dairy farmers. However, Shivakumar’s decision to allocate space to Nandini at the remaining metro stations is seen as an attempt to address the concerns of the state’s dairy farmers and promote the local brand.
The controversy highlights the sensitive nature of promoting local brands and supporting local farmers. The Karnataka government’s decision to allow Amul to operate in metro stations was seen as a setback to the state’s dairy industry, which is a significant contributor to the state’s economy. The allocation of space to Nandini at the remaining metro stations is expected to provide a boost to the local dairy industry and promote the brand among commuters. Overall, the issue has brought attention to the need for governments to support local industries and promote local brands, while also ensuring that global brands are allowed to operate in a fair and transparent manner.