Punjab Wheat Shortage Drives Up Atta Prices, Sugar Tops Rs 75 per Kg
The prices of essential kitchen commodities are rising in India, putting pressure on household budgets. The retail rates of unbranded chakki atta have increased by Rs 3 per kg and branded atta by about Rs 1 per kg.
Punjab Roller Flour Mills Association President Naresh Ghai confirmed the price hike, saying it's a common phenomenon after the procurement season ends. He added that Punjab has 90 roller flour mills and thousands of atta chakkis, all of which have raised their prices.
Ghai emphasized that Punjab is both a major wheat-producing and consuming state. After the procurement season, the state becomes deficient in wheat, and Ghai suggested that the central government implement a special policy for the state as it has been India's food bowl.
The price of sugar has also risen to Rs 70-75 per kg in the retail market, depending on quality. Mustard oil prices have increased by about 20% in the past month, with unbranded oil sold at Rs 180 per litre and branded bottles available for around Rs 220 per litre.