After tomatoes, skyrocketing chilli and ginger prices drain consumers' pockets

While tomatoes have garnered significant attention, the prices of cauliflower, ginger, and even green chillies have surged, causing financial strain for consumers.

In Delhi, tomatoes are being sold at nearly Rs 145 per kg, a single cauliflower costs Rs 80, ginger is priced at around Rs 380 per kg (Rs 38 for 100 gm), and green chillies are being sold for Rs 170 per kg (Rs 17 for 100 gm).

These escalating prices come at a time when the country was anticipating a decrease in inflation.

In May, the Consumer Price Index-based inflation showed a reduction to 4.25% compared to 4.7% in April.

However, the current situation with rising vegetable prices poses a challenge to the expected downward trend in inflation.

IBNS spoke to a buyer in a market in South Delhi, who said the vegetable prices have skyrocketed in a matter of few days.

Tomato, ginger, chillies—have risen multi-fold burning a hole in the consumers’ pockets, he said, adding that vegetable vendors are now reluctant to give away coriander leaves and green chillies with every purchase.

While the government has attributed the price rise to be a temporary occurrence, the opposition has criticized the central government for the issue.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate, during a press conference on Tuesday, highlighted the rising prices by presenting a basket of tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and green chillies.

Taking a jibe, she said that this basket could be a suitable gifting option, considering the exorbitant cost of Rs 1,070 for just those four items.