Nandini MD ousted for planning a launch of Nandini idly and Dosa instant batter
Hemavathy M N
The sudden transfer of MK Jagadish, the Managing Director of the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) without a posting, has sparked a fierce political debate in Karnataka. The BJP has accused the Congress-led state government of undermining the state-run Nandini brand to benefit players, particularly Kerala-based iD Fresh owned by P C Mustafa
Karnataka BJP Chief BY Vijayendra alleges that the Congress government is favouring Kerala-based iD Fresh, a major player in the ready-to-cook market.
Jagadish has played a pivotal role in expanding Nandini’s reach, both in India and abroad. He was instrumental in letting Brand Nandini foray into new markets, including Delhi and Dubai, with a plethora of value-added products. He was on a spree to introduce new products like idli and dosa batter and envisioned positioning KMF, the pride of Karnataka, as a strong competitor in the ready-to-cook segment. However, his abrupt transfer has raised suspicions of foul play.
Congress leader and KMF Chairman, Bheema Naik, a close aide of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, is accused of being instrumental in the transfer as he strongly opposed the launch of the batter products under Brand Nandini. He was against Nandini changing its trajectory from the milk and dairy market to ready-to-cook products made by third parties, fearing harm to the brand’s value.
It must be noted that a statement from Amit Shah in 2023 to collaborate Nandini with Amul sparked tremendous debate and took a toll on the elections. Nandini is a household name in Karnataka and the heartbeat of the farmers of the state.
In this political game and the turmoil that ensues, what is of concern is the political motives that could jeopardize the very cooperative values that made Nandini a household name in the first place. The future of Nandini, its product strategies, and leadership at crossroads must not affect the rigorous growth of Brand Nandini, which has sparked awe among brand watchers and given a new hope to the farmers of Karnataka.
Amid all these controversy , Speculation is rife that former Congress MP D K suresh may be Bheema Naik’s successor as the Chairman of KMF .
