Srivilliputhur palkova makers hit by milk shortage during festive Aadi season

The Aadi season has brought thousands of devotees to the Andal temple in Srivilliputhur, with weekend footfall rising. This festive rush has also increased demand for the town's famed palkova, and stocks are selling out earlier than usual. However, manufacturers say they have been unable to scale up production because they cannot procure additional quantities of milk to meet the seasonal surge.

The palkova has been made in Srivilliputhur since before Independence, and its popularity grew after cooperative milk societies were set up following the White Revolution. The product received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019. Manufacturers credit the unique flavour of Srivilliputhur palkova to local production methods and ingredients.