Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 17: Consumers across Karnataka have been hit by yet another round of price shock, with essential commodity rates surging sharply following a recent hike in petrol prices.
According to reports, a combination of global economic pressures — including escalating tensions in the Middle East pushing up crude oil prices — and foreign exchange constraints have contributed to the rise.
As a result, petrol and diesel prices in India have reportedly been increased by Rs 3, with the ripple effect now visibly hitting the grocery market across the state.
Rice prices climb steeply
Households already grappling with inflation are now witnessing a sharp upward trend in rice prices across Karnataka. Market rates have been rising consistently over the past week, while wholesale prices of both standard and premium rice varieties have increased by Rs 3 to Rs 10 per kg over the last 15 days.
Traders caution that retail prices could climb further in the coming days if the trend continues.
A 26-kg rice bag has become costlier by Rs 100 to Rs 200, adding further pressure on household budgets. The surge is being attributed to erratic rainfall patterns, lower production levels, and rising transportation and storage costs.
The impact is being felt most severely by middle-class families and daily wage earners, who are finding it increasingly difficult to manage monthly expenses.
Rice price trends
Sona Masoori steamed rice
- Last week: Rs 69/kg
- This week: Rs 78/kg
RNR steamed rice
- Last week: Rs 69/kg
- This week: Rs 79/kg
RNR raw rice
- Last week: Rs 66/kg
- This week: Rs 76/kg
Sona Masoori raw rice
- Last week: Rs 58/kg
- This week: Rs 65/kg
Kolam raw rice
- Last week: Rs 69/kg
- This week: Rs 80/kg
Toor dal also joins price spiral
Alongside rice, pulses have also turned costlier, with toor dal now priced at Rs 125–Rs 128 per kg. Traders say other pulses are also on an upward trajectory, further tightening household budgets.
With essential commodities steadily becoming more expensive, the cost of daily living continues to rise, leaving ordinary consumers increasingly squeezed by inflationary pressures.