Following the steep rise in vegetable prices, grocery prices have also surged dramatically in the state’s general market, making life difficult for ordinary people. Without government intervention, the situation is likely to worsen.
Key price increases include:
- Dal: from Rs 100 per kg to Rs 160
- Black gram: Rs 140
- Chickpeas: Rs 132
- Andhra white (Jaya) rice (wholesale): from Rs 39 to Rs 42 (retail up to Rs 49)
- Vegetables: Tomatoes Rs 100, beans Rs 120, garlic Rs 300, Moringa Rs 200, carrots Rs 80 per kg
The surge in prices is attributed to low rainfall and high temperatures in northern India, reducing vegetable supply from Tamil Nadu. Additionally, the trawling ban and heavy fishing have led to decreased fish availability, with sardines costing around Rs 300 per kg.
Outstanding dues to Supplyco include:
- Total due: Rs 3500 crores
- State for subsidy-market intervention: Rs 1475 crores
- Central government for paddy procurement: Rs 1079 crores
- State as bonus: Rs 600 crores
- Special allocation to paddy farmers: Rs 259 crores
- Arrears of rice for school lunch scheme: Rs 150 crores
Key price points:
- Dal: Rs 160 per kg
- Black gram: Rs 140
- Chickpeas: Rs 132
- Jaya rice: Rs 42
- Tomato: Rs 100
- Beans: Rs 120
- Garlic: Rs 300
- Moringa: Rs 200
