No wait list, no problem

CHENNAI: The state-run Aavin milk federation doesnat have a waiting list of customers who want new cards for supply of milk. And thatas because it has stopped accepting new applications for cards.

Aavin staff says that they have stopped taking applications since the demand for milk is higher than the supply. The federation procures about 22 lakh litres per day. "The demand is almost double that," said an Aavin official. "Since the population in the city is increasing and we are unable to procure more milk, we are going slow on issuing new cards," he said.

There are about 13 lakh card holders in the state, of which Chennai accounts for 6.5 lakh. "We are not accepting applications for new cards from people," the official said, adding that they issue a few cards on an individual basis to "genuine cases". The federation last issued cards in bulk in March 2008 when it held a mela in eight zonal offices and 27 milk consumer societies across the city and its suburbs.

"I wanted a card from Aavin because it is cheaper to buy milk on a monthly subscription basis. I need two and a half litres every day. Unfortunately, I am not able to get a card and so have to pay more to buy milk in the open market. It stretches my budget," said S Sivagami, a homemaker from Adyar.

Aavin milk is heavily subsidised for cardholders. For instance, 500ml of toned milk with an MRP of Rs 10.25 is sold to monthly cardholders for Rs 8.90. "Due to poor milk quality and erratic supply by private brands, I wanted to apply for an Aavin card. I visited the office in Alwarpet a couple of months ago and was told it will not be possible to get one," said another homemaker.