Onam festive rush triggers surge in flower prices in Keralam
Merchants say that acute water scarcity and adverse weather in key cultivation hubs across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh have severely pinched supply lines, pushing retail rates past last year’s figures
As the festive season of Onam arrived earlier than usual, accompanied by a two-month lull in the market, flower prices in Keralam have surged sharply, according to sources. Merchants and farmers attribute the price hike to supply chain disruptions, early holiday calendar, and lower production in neighboring states. Rajesh Ramaswamy, a flower merchant, explained that prices for roses and white chrysanthemums have remained consistent with last year, but marigold prices have skyrocketed from around ₹100 per kilogram to ₹140–₹150.
This sudden spike in marigold prices is due to water scarcity and adverse weather conditions in key cultivation regions such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. B. Subith, a local marigold cultivator, expects a 3,000-kilogram yield from his one-acre farm, but notes that market rates will only stabilize once Onam festivities reach full swing.
He adds that demand will peak on this Friday, leading to further price increases. To alleviate consumer inflation and reduce reliance on imported blooms, the District Kudumbashree Mission has initiated the Nirappolima project, which involves 597 joint liability groups farming 102.65 acres with marigolds, chrysanthemums, gomphrena, and jasmine.
This endeavor aims to bolster domestic supply during the festive rush, curb soaring market prices, and provide fresh, cost-effective flowers and income opportunities for local women farmers.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
