BANKE, Local farmers in Banke are facing hardships due to the illegal transportation of low-quality milk from India through the open border.

Cheaply priced milk is being smuggled into Nepal through various checkpoints, including Suiya, Khadaicha, Jamunaha, and Shiupuri, undermining local dairy producers.

Indra Prasad Luintel, a central member of the Milk Producers Association, claimed that around 1,000 liters of milk are being illegally imported daily. He urged authorities to take immediate action to stop the inflow, warning of its adverse impact on both farmers and consumers.

The illegally imported milk, sold at prices ranging from Rs 30 to Rs 50 per liter, not only threatens the local dairy industry but also raises health concerns due to its questionable quality, he added.

Luintel also criticized the government’s inaction, stating that the state is losing tax revenue while local farmers struggle to compete. He called for policies that incentivize domestic dairy production to ensure sustainability in the sector.

Lumbini Province Agriculture Minister Dinesh Panthi emphasized the need for stronger coordination between police and government employees to curb illegal milk imports. While acknowledging past efforts, he admitted they have not been effective and pledged to introduce new strategies to address the issue.