Households across Visakhapatnam are facing rising grocery expenses as retail prices of fine-quality rice continue to increase. The price rise is causing concern among middle- and lower-income families, for whom rice is a daily staple.

According to recent reports, a 26 kg bag of premium rice that cost approximately ₹1,700–₹1,800 between March and August has climbed to around ₹2,200 for some brands. Varieties such as HMT and BPT Sannalu are reportedly selling at ₹80–₹85 per kg in retail markets. Prices vary depending on the variety, brand and quality.

 

Traders have attributed the increase to higher paddy procurement costs and prices quoted by rice millers. Concerns have also been raised about possible stockholding and artificial scarcity, although such allegations require investigation and should not be treated as established findings. Market participants have called for closer monitoring of stocks and pricing practices.

 

To help consumers manage the rising cost, the state government has been selling subsidised BPT Sannalu rice at ₹50 per kg through 10 Rythu Bazaars. Reports indicate that the programme has supplied around 3,800 quintals to approximately 31,000 customers since August, with Aadhaar verification used for distribution.

 

The rising prices have renewed calls for officials to monitor market stocks, examine pricing trends and ensure that essential food supplies remain accessible to consumers. For households already dealing with higher living costs, the price of rice has become a growing concern.