Food prices in Gujarat have surged sharply over the past year, straining the budgets of poor and middle-class families as incomes fail to keep up with inflation. The state now ranks 20th among Indian states in the latest Human Development Index (HDI), reflecting growing economic pressure on households.
Middle-class families spend 35–45% of their income on food, while poorer families spend as much as 70%. A price comparison shows steep hikes across essentials — onions are up 60%, tomatoes 30%, and wheat flour by up to 25%.
Price Comparison Table (2024–2025):
| Item | Price in 2024 | Price in 2025 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat flour | ₹35 | ₹38.38–₹40 | 20–25% |
| Urad dal (black gram) | ₹135–₹140 | ₹150–₹180 | 20% |
| Onion | ₹30–₹40 | ₹50–₹70 | 60% |
| Tomato | ₹40–₹60 | ₹50–₹80 | 30% |
| Potato | ₹20–₹25 | ₹25–₹35 | 30% |
| Sugar | ₹42–₹46 | ₹45–₹50 | 5% |
| Mustard oil | ₹110–₹120 | ₹115–₹125 | 5% |
| Milk | ₹56–₹60 | ₹60–₹66 | 6% |
Although low-income households receive subsidised grains through ration shops, the lower middle class — excluded from such schemes — finds it difficult to manage even small price rises.
Former minister Jaynarayan Vyas said many lower-middle-class families are cutting down on their “thalinomics” — the affordability of a daily meal — which directly affects nutrition. Rising prices are also squeezing savings meant for education, healthcare, and recreation.
According to the UNDP, India ranks 130th globally in HDI, while Gujarat’s slide to 20th among Indian states points to deepening developmental concerns.