Gaya/Patna: Households in Bihar are facing fresh pressure on their kitchen budgets ahead of the festive season, with mustard oil prices rising by as much as Rs 15 per litre over the past month.
The price increase comes shortly after a rise in sugar prices, adding to the cost of everyday groceries. Mustard oil, a staple in many households, is currently selling at around Rs 210–215 per litre in Gaya, compared with approximately Rs 195 a month ago.
Festive Demand Adds to Household Expenses
The increase comes during the Hindu month of Kartik, when festivals and family gatherings often lead to higher consumption of cooking oil and other kitchen essentials.
With households preparing traditional dishes and festive meals, the rise in mustard oil prices is adding to expenses, particularly for low-income and middle-class families.
Several homemakers have expressed concern that rising prices of everyday food items are making it increasingly difficult to manage monthly household budgets.
Traders Point to Supply Constraints
Abhishek Bhardwaj, a wholesale trader based in Gaya’s Purani Godown market, said mustard oil prices had increased by Rs 10–15 per litre over the past month.
The report also points to reduced market supply as farmers hold back mustard stocks, contributing to the price rise.
Could Mustard Oil Reach Rs 250 Per Litre?
Market concerns have emerged over the possibility of another increase, with prices potentially touching Rs 250 per litre. However, this remains a projection rather than a confirmed price forecast.
For consumers, the immediate concern is the rising cost of a daily-use cooking essential at a time when festive spending is already putting pressure on household finances.
