Thiruvananthapuram, June 18: In a significant legal development for the Indian dairy industry, the Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (KCMMF), popularly known as Milma, had secured a significant courtroom win against a private competitor for trademark infringement. A commercial court in Thiruvananthapuram has ordered the private ‘firm ‘M’lnna’ to pay a fine of Rs 1 crore for unauthorised use of packaging and branding that closely resembles Milma’s products.
The ruling, which includes an additional Rs 8.18 lakh as court fees and a 6% penal interest from the date of the judgment, sends a strong message against brand imitation within the Indian dairy sector. The court further restrained Milnna from marketing, selling, or advertising any milk or allied dairy products that utilise Milnna’s trademark or visual branding.
Milma Chairman K.S. Mani welcomed the verdict, stating, “This ruling is a stern warning to entities attempting to mislead consumers and undermine the trust built by genuine dairy cooperatives. Milma represents the livelihoods of over 10.6 lakh dairy farmers across Kerala.”
Founded in 1980 under the aegis of Operation Flood, Milma has become a cornerstone of Kerala’s dairy self-sufficiency. From its initial 45,000-member base in 1983, it now unites more than 3,100 dairy cooperatives. Its cooperative structure and commitment to quality have established it as a trusted name not just in Kerala, but across India.
The case highlights the increasing need for intellectual property protection in the Indian dairy industry, particularly as private brands proliferate. This landmark judgment reinforces the legal rights of dairy cooperatives to safeguard their identity and market reputation.
