Tomato retail prices have climbed sharply across India, reaching an average of Rs 52.87 per kg (US$0.63) on November 26, according to the Department of Consumer Affairs. Prices were Rs 37.02 per kg (US$0.44) one month earlier, marking a 43 percent increase in 30 days.
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State-level data shows considerable variation. Andaman and Nicobar recorded the highest retail price at Rs 96.67 per kg (US$1.15), followed by Mizoram at Rs 92.18 (US$1.11) and Delhi at Rs 80 (US$0.95). Northeastern states, including Manipur and Sikkim, reported prices of Rs 78.4 (US$0.94) and Rs 71.67 (US$0.86), respectively.
Major producing states in the south reported comparatively lower retail levels. Telangana listed tomatoes at Rs 31.36 per kg (US$0.37) and Andhra Pradesh at Rs 38.46 (US$0.46).
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Prices rose to Rs 51.12 three days ago, up from Rs 46.26 a week earlier, before reaching the current Rs 52.87.
Online quick-commerce platforms showed higher prices than government retail estimates. In Delhi NCR, Blinkit listed tomatoes at Rs 110 per kg (US$1.31). Swiggy Instamart listed Rs 96 (US$1.15) and Zepto Rs 92 (US$1.10). Amazon Fresh and BigBasket listed tomatoes at Rs 87 (US$1.04), also above Delhi's retail reference of Rs 80 per kg.
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To reduce consumer pressure, the National Cooperative Consumers Federation of India (NCCF) has begun supplying tomatoes in the capital at Rs 52 per kg (US$0.63).
The current price pattern highlights strong regional disparities and continued volatility across the tomato supply chain, with wholesale and retail values diverging sharply from online platform pricing.
Source: NDTV
