Vegetable prices surge across India, straining household budgets

Rising vegetable prices are significantly impacting household budgets across various regions. In markets such as Hathin in Haryana, essential items have seen sharp increases, with lemons reaching 250 rupees per kg, ginger at 125 rupees per kg, and onions priced between 70 and 80 rupees per kg.

In Kerala, the surge is particularly acute for staples like beans and cowpea, which have both crossed 100 rupees per kg. Garlic has reached 220 rupees per kg, and shallots have also hit the 100 rupees per kg mark. Analysts attribute these spikes to adverse weather and flooding in neighboring states, which have disrupted transport and reduced the supply of vegetables entering the Kerala market.

While vegetable costs rise, there is some movement in the edible oil sector. The government has reduced import duties on various oils, including sunflower and soybean oil, to stabilize local prices and alleviate inflationary pressures. Authorities have instructed manufacturers to pass these cost savings on to consumers through adjusted retail prices.