What is the Gokul Cooperative Milk Federation election issue in Maharashtra? | Explained

Gokul milk cooperative members and farmers take out a protest march in Kolhapur, Maharashtra | Photo Credit: PTI

Election to one of Maharashtra’s largest milk federations has turned into a political slugfest. Kolhapur Zilla Sahakari Dudh Utpadak Sangh Ltd, known as Gokul, is one of Maharashtra’s largest and most influential dairy co-operatives. After the election to the directors’ positions was held recently, the Congress-led panel won by a wafer-thin majority of 13-12 in a body of 25 directors. Soon thereafter, the BJP-led State government passed an order to appoint five nominated directors. Four of them will have voting rights. This caused a massive backlash, as it will tilt the majority in favour of the ruling alliance via nominated directors, though the alliance could not garner a majority through a democratically held election.

Kolhapur Zilla Sahakari Dudh Utpadak Sangh Ltd., well known for its popular brand ‘Gokul ’, is an Operation Flood cooperative dairy project established on March 16, 1963. It is one of the most significant political and economic forces in western Maharashtra and has established itself as a prime dairy co-operative in the State. Maharashtra’s politics is shaped by the significant co-operatives’ sector.

Published - November 10, 2026 12:05 pm IST