Spicy Price Surge: Indore's Namkeen Feels the Heat

Indore's famous namkeen snacks like 'sev' and 'gathiya' have become more expensive due to rising fuel and packaging costs amid conflict in West Asia. Local expert Anurag Bothra notes the increasing cost of cooking gas and packaging, affecting over 1,500 manufacturing units in the city.

Indore's cherished namkeen treats, including 'sev' and 'gathiya,' are now priced higher, reflecting escalated costs from fuel and packaging. The city's notable namkeen industry, comprising around 1,500 manufacturing units, faces financial strain from increased commercial cooking gas and packaging material prices amid the West Asia conflict.

Anurag Bothra, secretary of the Namkeen-Mishthanhan Kreta Evam Vikreta Kalyan Sangh, revealed to PTI that prices for packaging bags have soared from Rs 190 to Rs 300 per kilogram. Moreover, the price of plastic containers and edible oil has seen a significant rise, compelling retail price adjustments.

Bothra emphasized the substantial impact on manufacturing units heavily reliant on commercial gas. There are industry warnings that further price hikes for these iconic snacks may occur if global fuel markets do not stabilize soon.

(With inputs from agencies.)