The Centre has banned exports of all milk powders and Casein with immediate effect.
The move comes ahead of the summer season, which generally witnesses a dip in milk production by animals particularly buffaloes.
A Directorate-General of Foreign Trade notification issued on Friday has said that the export ban applies to milk powders (including skimmed milk powder, whole milk powder, dairy whitener and infant milk foods), Casein and Casein products (Casein, caseinates and other casein derivatives; casein glues).
Milk production normally shoots up during winter. Dairies use the surplus milk and convert it into powder for use in the lean summer months.
By prohibiting export shipments “till further orders” the Centre is seeking to ensure that all the powder produced, remains within the country.