The term of the previous KMF board expired on July 7, 2024, but the Lok Sabha elections and subsequent procedural delays extended its tenure. On June 4, 2025, THM Kumar, registrar of cooperative societies, was appointed administrator.KMF, which markets Nandini dairy products, represents lakhs of milk producers across the state. The lack of an elected president for nearly two years created a leadership vacuum in one of Karnataka’s most influential cooperative bodies.A total of 20 members are eligible to vote. They include nominated representatives of 16 milk unions, one govt nominee, representatives of registrar of cooperative societies, animal husbandry department, and National Dairy Development Board. Hampaiah Swamy of Yelburga, Koppal, was appointed the govt representative.The contest has narrowed to three Congress leaders — Bangalore Milk Union (BAMUL) president DK Suresh; Raichur-Ballari-Koppal-Vijayanagara Milk Union president and Koppal MLA K Raghavendra Hitnal; and Kolar Milk Union (KOMUL) president and Malur MLA KY Nanjegowda.Hitnal publicly said he is actively seeking the post, asserting that Kalyana Karnataka deserves representation. Nanjegowda also pressed his claim, stating he missed the opportunity in the previous term and should be considered now.DCM Shivakumar is said to be backing his brother, DK Suresh, arguing that the CM’s camp held the post earlier. Siddaramaiah is reportedly firm in his support for Hitnal, who met him recently to discuss the matter.With both the CM and DCM standing by their respective candidates, the March 6 election is expected to heighten political undercurrents within the ruling Congress as it decides the leadership of one of the state’s most powerful cooperative institutions.
