Poor rainfall and crop losses across Karnataka are pushing vegetable and jaggery prices higher, increasing the burden on household budgets
Vegetable prices are rising across Karnataka as inadequate rainfall affects crop production and market supply. Traders expect prices to ease if rainfall continues in the coming days.
Bengaluru: Vegetable prices are rising across Karnataka as inadequate rainfall has affected agricultural production in several parts of the state. The reduced availability of fresh produce reaching markets has added to the financial burden on households.
Farmers in several regions have reportedly lost crops due to insufficient rainfall, while some have been unable to undertake cultivation. The resulting shortage of vegetables in markets has contributed to the recent increase in prices.
Karnataka Vegetable Prices Continue To Rise
Prices of commonly consumed vegetables, including onions, tomatoes, beetroot, cucumber, carrots and beans, have increased.
Traders said vegetable prices generally decline during September and October as fresh produce reaches markets in larger quantities. Increased supply usually helps moderate prices during this period.
However, prices have continued to rise this year despite September traditionally witnessing improved vegetable availability.
Traders said prices could ease if rainfall received in some parts of Karnataka continues over the next few days. Improved rainfall could support crop production and increase the supply of vegetables to markets.
Vegetable Prices At HOPCOMS
The current prices of selected vegetables at HOPCOMS outlets are:
- Onion: Rs.78 per kg
- Cucumber: Rs.48–Rs.60 per kg
- Country Carrot: Rs.68–Rs.70 per kg
- Beetroot: Rs.50 per kg
- Garlic: Rs.300 per kg
- Tomato: Rs.30 per kg
- Potato: Rs.46–Rs.50 per kg
- Drumstick: Rs.70 per kg
- Mangalore Cucumber: Rs.64 per kg
The prices indicate continued variation across different vegetable categories, with garlic among the costlier items listed at HOPCOMS outlets.
Jaggery Prices Remain Above Rs.75 Per Kg
Jaggery prices have also remained high despite some relief in sugar prices. The price of jaggery has crossed Rs.75 per kg, adding to household expenses.
Traders have attributed the increase to lower sugarcane yields and reduced quantities of jaggery reaching the market.
If supply remains limited, jaggery prices are expected to remain elevated for some more time. The overall vegetable and jaggery price trend will depend partly on rainfall and the resulting impact on agricultural production and market supply.
