Karnataka Consumers Hit by Triple Blow: Pricey veggies, milk hike, elevated power bills

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Karnataka are hit by a triple blows of pricey vegatables like tomatoes and chillies, a recent hike in milk prices, and higher electricity bills. The affordability of tomatoes, once a humble kitchen essential, has come under scrutiny as their prices rise dramatically. While farmers reap windfall profits from bumper crops and soaring prices, the consequence is the disappearance of tomatoes from dishes like burgers, chaats, and salads in some areas.

The Karnataka Milk Federation has also raised milk and curd prices, effective August 1. This price increase doesn't just affect households; it also extends to dining out. From everyday beverages such as tea and coffee to indulgent treats like milkshakes, sweets, and basic breads, customers will bear the brunt of elevated dairy product costs.

Other milk variants from KMF have also seen an average price increase of Rs 3. Karnataka, a region where premium alcohol brands were already renowned for their steep prices, has further elevated costs. In the recent budget, an additional excise duty (AED) increase of 20% for Indian Made Liquor (IML) across 18 price categories and a 10% hike for beer have made alcohol across the board more expensive.

These new rates were announced by the government last month. Many consumers in the state have also complained that they have received unusually high bills as the electricity regulatory commission levied a 70-paise tariff rise and allowed fuel and power purchase cost adjustment (FPPCA) charges to be levied from July to December. As per reports, many consumers reported that there was an unusual spike in electricity bills for the month of June.