Overview

• The average cost of a vegetarian thali dropped to ₹26.3 in April, the lowest in a year, reflecting a 4% year-on-year decline.
• Non-vegetarian thali costs also fell 4% year-on-year to ₹53.9, driven by a 4% drop in broiler chicken prices due to oversupply and reduced demand.
• Vegetable prices saw significant declines, with tomatoes down 34%, potatoes 11%, and onions 6%, reversing last year’s high base caused by poor yields.
• Higher costs of edible oil, up 19% due to increased import duties, and a 6% rise in LPG prices limited further reductions in meal costs.
• Crisil forecasts continued moderation in wheat, pulses, and edible oil prices over the next 2–3 months, supporting sustained lower meal costs.