Bhubaneswar: The prices of essential kitchen staples, onion and garlic, have surged dramatically in Odisha, causing concern among consumers and vendors alike.
During the holy month of Kartik, when the demand for these items typically decreases, the price of garlic has soared to ₹400 per kilogram, while onions are being sold at ₹70-80 per kilogram.
Local vendors attribute this steep price hike to a reduced supply from other states. “The fresh supply has not yet hit the market, leading to a significant increase in prices,” explained a vendor at Chhatra Bazar in Cuttack. This shortage has further impacted sales, with many consumers opting to buy less due to the high costs.
Minister of Food Supplies, Krushna Chandra Patra, addressed the issue, noting that the state is heavily dependent on supplies from other regions. “Onion is currently being sold at ₹45 per kilogram even in Nashik. We have requested NAFED to sell onions at ₹30 per kilogram in Odisha to alleviate the burden on consumers,” he stated.
The price surge has particularly affected daily wage earners and lower-middle-class families, who consider onions an essential ingredient in their daily cooking. Many households have reduced their consumption or switched to alternatives to cope with the rising costs.
As the holy month of Kartik continues, the impact of these soaring prices on household budgets and local businesses remains a significant concern.
