Sugar, flour, pulses, edible oils & other daily-use items getting costlier in Odisha
Essential commodity prices in Odisha have surged, with sugar rising above ₹55/kg, rice up ₹15/kg, and edible oils, pulses and flour also becoming costlier. Traders cite higher sugarcane prices, ethanol diversion, lower production, global market volatility and rising transport costs as key drivers.
Rising prices of essential commodities have added to the worries of common consumers in Odisha, with sugar, flour, pulses, edible oils and other daily-use items becoming more expensive. While vegetable prices continue to remain high, the increasing cost of groceries has further strained household budgets.
Consumers are facing a tough time managing their monthly expenses as prices in the market continue to climb. Sugar has emerged as one of the major concerns, with its price rising by more than Rs 10 per kg within a month.
Sugar, which was selling at around Rs 40-45 per kg in May, is now being sold above Rs 55 per kg. According to market data, the wholesale price of sugar has increased from around Rs 4,100 per quintal in May to nearly Rs 5,000 per quintal now.
Edible oil prices have also witnessed a sharp rise. Refined oil prices have increased to around Rs 170 per litre, while mustard oil has crossed Rs 190 per litre. Traders fear that if the trend continues, mustard oil prices may cross the Rs 200 mark soon.
Rice prices have also increased by nearly Rs 15 per kg, adding further pressure on consumers. Similarly, wholesale prices of black gram have increased by around Rs 1,000 per quintal. Flour, semolina and other grain-based products have become costlier by around Rs 5 per kg.
Other grocery items have also witnessed a gradual rise in prices, leaving consumers struggling with increased monthly expenses.
Traders and market experts have attributed the increase in prices to several factors. Odisha largely depends on other states for sugar supplies. Rising sugarcane prices in the national market and increased use of sugarcane for ethanol production are being considered major reasons behind the rise in sugar prices.
According to the state traders’ association, lower production due to the possible impact of El Nino has raised concerns over supply shortages. Some companies are reportedly stocking commodities, which has also contributed to price increases.
Apart from this, instability in the global market, rising labour costs, and increased transportation expenses due to higher petrol and diesel prices are directly affecting the prices of essential goods.
Meanwhile, vegetable prices have already been troubling consumers for the past 15 days. Most vegetables are being sold above Rs 50 per kg in local markets.
With rising prices of vegetables, cooking gas, fuel, pulses and rice, ordinary families are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their household expenses. Items that were once purchased without much thought are now forcing consumers to think twice before spending.
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Source : Odisha TV
