New Delhi
Vegetable prices in India are likely to stay high until June due to unusually warm temperatures. A CRISIL report highlights that this rise is caused by erratic weather and climate change, showing how sensitive vegetable prices are to environmental shifts.
Efforts like creating buffer stocks and importing vegetables have not been very effective, mainly because vegetables spoil quickly. India’s limited cold storage facilities further complicate the issue. The report indicates that India, being one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, faces increased risks of extreme weather like heatwaves, flooding, and storms, which impact vegetable production and prices. Higher temperatures also lead to more pests, adding to the farmers’ and consumers’ struggles.
In fiscal 2024, there was significant fluctuation in vegetable inflation, with prices for staples like tomatoes and onions soaring. Other vegetables like garlic, ginger, eggplant, and beans also saw sharp price increases. Normally, vegetable prices follow a seasonal pattern, but this changed in fiscal 2024, leading to higher food inflation.
With above-normal temperatures expected until June, prices are likely to remain high. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts above-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon, but the distribution is uncertain. To mitigate these issues, India must improve agricultural infrastructure and promote sustainable farming practices to reduce the impact of climate change on vegetable production and prices.
