Thali Costs Take a Dip: March Brings Relief to Indian Households

The cost of preparing a home-cooked thali saw a notable decline in March 2025, offering some respite to Indian households amidst fluctuating food prices. According to the Crisil Intelligence report, the average cost of a vegetarian thali dropped by 3% year-on-year, while the non-vegetarian thali remained stable. This trend was primarily driven by a sharp decrease in tomato prices, which fell by 34% to Rs 21/kg, compared to Rs 32/kg in March 2024.

Fresh arrivals of tomatoes across the country, particularly in southern states with robust rabi crops, contributed to this price drop. However, the decline in thali costs was partially offset by increases in the prices of potatoes (2%), onions (6%), and vegetable oil (19%). On a month-to-month basis, vegetarian and non-vegetarian thali costs fell by 2% and 5%, respectively, reflecting the impact of fresh vegetable supplies.

For non-vegetarian thalis, a 7% drop in broiler chicken prices further eased costs, despite slower demand in the south due to bird flu concerns. This decline highlights the interplay of supply dynamics and consumer behavior in shaping food prices.

Sources: Crisil Intelligence, Economic Times, The Hans India.