Housewives in Surat are experiencing a significant increase in chili prices this season, potentially impacting their household budgets. Due to low rainfall in Telangana and Karnataka last year, chili production has suffered, resulting in a 70 to 90 percent price increase compared to the previous year.
Kashmiri chili and Resham Patti chili prices have more than doubled this season. Spice trader Bharatbhai Gandhi explained that the price of Kashmiri chili has risen from Rs 400 to 450 per kg last year to Rs 800 to 850 per kg this year. Meanwhile, the cost of Resham Patti chili has increased from Rs 300 per kg last year to Rs 400 to Rs 450 per kg this year.
Kashmiri chilies are sourced from Kashmir, while Resham Patti chilies come from Warangal in Telangana. The decline in chili production in both regions can be attributed to the lack of rain last year. Residents of Surat often prefer to blend Kashmiri and Resham Patti chilies for their distinct flavors and heat levels. The current price hike has led to a change in purchasing habits, with people now buying 60 kg of Resham Patti and 40 kg of Kashmiri chilies instead of the previous 100 kg of Kashmiri and 25 kg of Resham Patti chilies.
Although the increase in chili prices has also reduced profits for spice traders, experts predict that chili prices may continue to rise in the coming days.
