The effect of extreme heat is also being seen on the prices of vegetables. In many parts of the country, tomato prices have more than doubled in two-three weeks. This increase in tomato prices has been observed in Maharashtra and the southern states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Its effect may be seen in the northern areas also in the coming days and tomatoes may become expensive. An increase in onion prices has also been seen before this.
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Tomato has reached Rs.60
According to data from Agmarknet, a government portal, the average wholesale price of tomatoes in southern states is Rs. 35 to Rs. 50 per kg, while prices in some markets in Karnataka range between Rs. has touched 60. Retail prices in cities have reached Rs 80 per kg.
After the elections, inflation hit, prices of potato, onion and tomato increased, pulses thinned.
According to the data, prices have almost doubled in the last two-three weeks and compared to a year ago. While North Indian states have not seen much rise in prices, the situation could become critical in July, when prices generally rise due to supply shortage.
Due to which the price was affected
Experts say that the heat has affected the production of tomatoes this year. Prolonged temperatures of 42 to 44 degrees Celsius caused deterioration of flowers and fruits, leading to reduced production. What is being produced does not reach the markets from the farms.
Prices skyrocket between July and October
Tomato prices peak between July and October. Tomatoes are grown in very small areas during the rainy season. Due to heavy rains during monsoon, the fruits are broken, which cannot be transported for long distances.
How much did the prices go up?
Scorching heat this year and prolonged periods of low rainfall last year have led to a resurgence in the prices of tomatoes, onions and potatoes. Official data shows that potato prices have increased by 43.82% (₹31.38 per kg) compared to a year ago. At the same time, onion prices have increased by 55.05% (₹35.66) per kg after the latest permission for exports.
While the all-India average price of tomatoes has increased by 37.29 percent. The recently released Crisil report also stated that tomato prices have increased by 39 per cent, potato prices by 41 per cent and onion prices by 43 per cent.
What the experts say
Experts say that food inflation is also expected to remain high due to scorching heat in the country. ICRA estimates that wholesale inflation may rise to three percent in June 2024. However, the progress of the monsoon will play a key role in determining the direction of food inflation in the future.