The cost of preparing a home-cooked meal has been rising steadily. Vegetarian thalis have particularly seen a significant increase in price, according a report by CRISIL Roti Rice Rate (RRR). Between October 2023 and October 2024, the cost of a vegetarian thali rose by 20 per cent. In comparison, the price rise for non-vegetarian thalis was more modest, at 5 per cent. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis saw price hikes in October 2024. The increase in vegetable prices has been the primary factor contributing to this surge.
Vegetables alone account for about 40 per cent of the cost of a vegetarian thali and 22 per cent of a non-veg thali. Onion and potato prices have experienced some of the most substantial increases, with onion prices rising by 46 per cent and potato prices by 51 per cent compared to 2023. These hikes are attributed to a decrease in supply caused by incessant rainfall this year. Onions, for instance, saw a 6 per cent price hike compared to the month prior.
Tomatoes, another staple in many Indian dishes, have also seen a significant price jump. In October 2024, the price of tomatoes more than doubled, going from ₹29 per kg in October 2023 to ₹64 per kg. The price surge is largely due to crop damage caused by heavy rains in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Over and above this, the festive season demand further fuelled the price increase, with tomato prices rising by 39 per cent compared to the previous month.
Other factors also contribute to the overall rise in thali costs. Pulses, which account for 9 per cent of the cost of a vegetarian thali, have become 11 per cent more expensive due to lower stock levels, a reduced supply pipeline, and higher festive demand. However, there is some hope for a decrease in pulse prices this month, when fresh stocks are expected to arrive.
Additionally, vegetable oil prices have seen a 10 per cent increase, primarily due to higher import duties and high demand during the festive season. While some prices are rising, fuel costs have seen a decrease. The cost of an LPG cylinder, for example, has dropped by 11 per cent from ₹903 in September 2023 to ₹803 in March 2024.
The average cost of preparing a thali at home is determined by the prices of several ingredients, including cereals, pulses, broilers, vegetables, spices, edible oil, and cooking gas. For a comprehensive view, prices from different regions across India—north, south, east, and west—are considered when calculating the overall cost.
However, the rise in vegetable prices significantly affects the cost of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis. While the situation remains challenging, there is hope that prices will stabilise in the coming months as supplies increase. Consumers will need to keep an eye on these trends to better manage their household budgets.