As the severe effects of the COVID-19 pandemic begin to wane, Indian families are facing a new challenge: rising inflation. The cost of essential goods has surged, becoming another burden on daily life.
In local markets across the country, prices of staple vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes, and radishes have increased by 100% to 150%. What used to be affordable essentials are now stretching household budgets thin.
Many households are forced to cut back on purchases and find ways to stretch their income further. The rise in prices is not limited to food items. Due to increased costs of metals like steel and copper, household goods such as pots, pans, and even electric lights have become 15-20% more expensive.
These price hikes compel families to make tough choices, often opting for fewer or lower-quality goods. The inflationary trend is linked to global supply chain disruptions and increased demand as economies reopen. However, for ordinary families, these explanations offer little comfort as they adjust to new financial realities.
The Indian government has acknowledged the inflation issue and is exploring measures to alleviate the pressure on households. In the meantime, families continue to adapt, hoping for relief in the near future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
