Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru (VP)
Mangaluru, Apr 1: The drought in Karnataka has severely impacted farmers, leading to disruptions in crop production and livestock maintenance. Consequently, the prices of vegetables and meat have witnessed a significant rise.
Summer, being the season of festivities and gatherings, sees an increase in events such as weddings and religious ceremonies like Kola and Nema in coastal cities. This surge in demand has contributed to the escalation in poultry product prices.
Currently, broiler chicken with skin is priced at Rs 235-240/kg, while Tyson Chicken costs Rs 270/kg. Skinless meat is available for Rs 265-270/kg, and live broiler costs Rs 165-170/kg. Sellers anticipate further price hikes in the coming days.
The primary reason for the price surge is attributed to the drought, which has resulted in reduced harvesting of soya and corn used as chicken feed. Consequently, the cost of chicken production has increased from Rs 65-70 to Rs 100. Additionally, the scorching sun and water scarcity have adversely affected poultry farms, leading to the closure of 20-25% of them. Increased shipping costs further exacerbate the situation, as the heat has a detrimental impact on chicken growth and mortality rates.
The rise in fish prices is attributed to a fish famine in the sea, causing most boats to remain docked without sufficient catches. Consequently, the price of fish has surged, with almost all varieties priced at Rs 200/kg. Fishes from states like Goa and Gujarat have not witnessed a decrease in prices.
Moreover, the prices of ginger and coriander have also seen an increase. Ginger prices have risen from Rs 120 to 160-200/kg, driven by high demand. Meanwhile, coriander shortages in the Mangaluru market have led to a Rs 15 increase in its price.
Interestingly, while chicken meat prices have increased, egg prices have decreased in shops, with wholesale prices dropping from Rs 6.50 to Rs 5.50 to Rs 4.80. Traders attribute this price decline to reduced stocking capacity during Ramadan fasting and the adverse effects of the sun's heat.