Punjab's Kitchen Costs Skyrocket as Flour and Sugar Prices Soar

Punjab's household budgets are taking another hit as prices of essential kitchen items continue to rise. The recent hike in sugar prices has been followed by an increase in flour costs, with chakki atta now selling at around Rs 3 per kg more than before and branded flour costing about Rs 1 per kg extra.

The state's wheat production was largely procured during the April harvest, leaving millers with exhausted stocks. With most of the procurement having come from Punjab, they are now forced to source wheat from other states at a higher cost, which is being passed on to consumers.

Punjab has urged the Centre to introduce a separate policy to address its unique requirements as a major wheat-producing and consuming state.

The price of sugar has also skyrocketed, with it selling at around Rs 70-75 per kg in the market. Mustard oil prices have risen sharply over the past month, with loose mustard oil now available for nearly Rs 180 per litre compared to around Rs 140 per litre earlier.