Rising Prices Strain Kerala Households: Immediate Government Action Needed
Over the past 15 years, the cost of daily living in Kerala has more than doubled, while family incomes have not kept pace. Managing household expenses has become an arduous task for many. The recent surge in the prices of spices and vegetables has further aggravated the situation, with a staggering 90 percent of family expenditures going to distributors and farmers in other states. Unlike previous times when price hikes were seasonal, now the cost of commodities can double in less than a week. Government intervention is crucial to stabilize prices.
To alleviate this crisis, it is essential to strengthen the supply of quality food grains through ration shops and accelerate the distribution of essential commodities and vegetables at reasonable prices via Supplyco, Consumer Fed, Horti Corp Banks, etc. Currently, most vegetables are priced above Rs 100 per kg, with tomatoes at Rs 100, beans at Rs 120, and garlic at Rs 300. The price of nuts has risen from Rs 100 per kg last month to Rs 160 now, and Jaya rice has increased from Rs 39 to Rs 42. Such inflation disrupts the family budget for both the common man and the middle class.
Many people receive their salaries after loan repayments and other deductions, leaving a reduced amount to cover family expenses, children’s education, vehicle fuel, electricity charges, and more. Households with only one income are struggling every month. With the continuous rise in prices of essential commodities, citizens are questioning the government’s ability to control this situation. Excuses from creditors about lack of rain and hot weather in northern India, and sellers’ justifications for price hikes, do not ease the burden on buyers who have no choice but to pay the quoted prices.
The issue of price hikes, highlighted by ‘Kerala Kaumudi’, has sparked a discussion in the Legislative Assembly. Roji M. John, in his adjournment motion notice, criticized the government for its inaction. In response, the Finance Minister, Minister of Food, and Agriculture Minister promised to take measures to contain the price rise. However, with Rs 600 crore dues to SupplyCo suppliers, proper distribution has not occurred, leaving Supplyco’s shelves empty. If the finance department pays the dues to Supplyco, Consumer Fed, Horti Corp, etc., prices could drop significantly within a week. Immediate and decisive action from the government is crucial to alleviate this growing crisis.
