Vegetable prices soar during Karthika month

Kurnool:Vegetable prices have surged significantly in Kurnool district, with some varieties hitting Rs 50-60 per kilogram as the demand rises during Karthika Masam. Many people abstain from non-vegetarian food this month, leading to increased demand for vegetables.

Recent heavy rains have further contributed to the price hike by damaging crops and disrupting supply chains. As a result, consumers are feeling the strain with only tomatoes offering some relief at Rs 20-30 per kilogram while prices for other vegetables continue to climb.

The surge in prices is partially attributed to the Shaivite tradition observed during Karthika Masam, where many Hindus choose to follow fasting days and abstain from non-vegetarian food. This month is marked by temple visits and fasting, and many people primarily consuming vegetarian food, which boosted the demand for vegetables across the district.

For example, brinjal is now priced at Rs 50-60 per kilogram, lady’s finger Rs 50, green chilies Rs 45-50 and cauliflower at Rs 40 each. Other vegetables such as carrots, beans and capsicum are among the costliest with prices ranging from Rs 50 to as high as Rs 120 per kilogram depending on the variety, quality and availability.

“During Karthika month, we consume only vegetables due to observing of auspicious days,” said K. Renuka from Raghavendra Nagar.

“Regardless of the price, we bring home vegetables and prepare simple meals. We avoid non-vegetarian food entirely throughout the month,” she added.

A. Sudhakar, a resident of C-Camp area, has emphasised the cultural significance of the month and the dedication to fasting and food practices.

Horticulture officials provided insights into the supply sources. Green chillies are primarily cultivated in Pagidyala and Jupadu Bungalow while brinjal is commonly grown in Adoni, Midtur and Aspari. Green leafy vegetables are grown in Kallur, Nandyal and Holagunda while tomatoes are cultivated largely in Pathikonda, Peapully and Tuggali. Beans and lady’s finger crops are gown mainly in Kodumur, Dornipadu and Nandyal areas.

However, traders suggest that the price spike is not just due to Karthika Month practices. Heavy rains in recent weeks have damaged crops in key horticultural areas, severely impacting the vegetable supply to Kurnool district.

“With the rains damaging plants, the usual sources of vegetables are not supplying the markets as needed,” said trader A. Ranganna from C-Camp Rythu Bazaar.

He added that vegetable prices will stabilise once the next crop cycle yields sufficient produce.