Pune : In a shocking incident that has sent ripples across Maharashtra, a massive counterfeit and synthetic milk manufacturing racket has been busted in Manchar, within the Pune district. Investigations have revealed a terrifying reality where a toxic chemical concoction costing just ₹5 was being sold to unsuspecting consumers as pure milk for ₹70 per liter. Preliminary estimates suggest this illegal business has been operating under the radar for the past six to seven years, amassing an astonishing annual turnover of over ₹2,000 crore.

The racket was uncovered during a major joint operation conducted by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Pune Rural Police on July 4 and 5. Authorities first raided an establishment named M/s Navkar Distributors in Manchar, where they seized a massive stockpile of chemical powders, detergents, various liquids, and other materials used for milk adulteration. Following this, officials targeted a dairy farm in Pimpalgaon Khadki, where they successfully seized and destroyed approximately 2,767 kilograms of ready-to-use synthetic milk.

The investigation exposed a staggering profit margin driven by an absolute disregard for public safety. To manufacture the synthetic milk, the accused used protein powder and edible oils to mimic the fat content of natural milk. To give the liquid its characteristic thick texture and bright white appearance, they mixed in detergent, shampoo, and other dangerous chemicals. Food safety officials have strictly emphasized that this chemical mixture is highly toxic and extremely hazardous to human health.

A total of 26 individuals have been booked in connection with the scam. Key suspects identified in the case include Sushant Babanrao Hinge and Sandeep Lodha from Manchar, Hemant Teke from Akluj, and Sanjog Yadav. The case was officially registered at the Manchar Police Station following a formal complaint lodged by Food Safety Officer Swati Damodar Mhaske.

The police strongly suspect that the tentacles of this racket stretch far beyond Pune, with the distribution network believed to be active across several districts including Ahilyanagar, Solapur, Thane, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Jalgaon. Investigating agencies are currently conducting a deep dive into the financial transactions, distribution supply chains, and digital evidence, and authorities state that more shocking revelations are likely to come to light as the probe intensifies.

Note : The image used for this news is AI-generated.