India's Food Inflation Hits 7.74%, Driven by Rising Onion Prices
India's food inflation rose to 7.74% in September from 5.97% in August, primarily due to a significant increase in onion prices, which surged to 108.09% year-on-year. Other contributors include rising costs for ginger and garlic, alongside concerns over agricultural production linked to weak monsoon conditions. The country experienced its lowest June-September rainfall in over a decade, impacting key agricultural states like Maharashtra and Punjab. Retail prices for staples such as rice and tur dal also saw increases, with rice averaging ₹46.43 per kg, up from ₹43.15 a year earlier. Economists warn that the pressure on food prices may persist, especially with the potential for a strong El Niño affecting future crop yields.
Published 19 hours ago • 13 Oct 2026, 11:38 AM IST