Thalinomics is a term that encapsulates the economics surrounding a plate of food, or a thali, in India. It aims to assess the affordability of nutritious meals within the country. Introduced in the Economic Survey of 2019-20, this concept sheds light on food price trends and their implications for household budgets.
Essentially, Thalinomics evaluates how fluctuations in the prices of various commodities influence the overall cost of a typical Indian meal. This includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. By analyzing the economics behind a thali, policymakers can gain insights into the broader economic and agricultural trends affecting food affordability.
As of November 2024, the vegetarian thali has a price of ₹32.70, reflecting a 2% decrease from October. Conversely, the non-vegetarian thali is priced at ₹61.50, marking a 2% increase year-on-year. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of food pricing in the Indian market.
Despite rising food prices, there have been some reductions that helped alleviate overall thali costs. Notably, the price of a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder in Delhi fell by 11% year-on-year to ₹803. This price decrease has been beneficial for households grappling with higher food costs.
In a surprising turn, the monthly costs of vegetarian thalis declined, even amidst overall annual inflation. This was primarily due to a 17% drop in tomato prices, attributed to fresh supplies from regions like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
Interestingly, while prices for many ingredients have risen, non-vegetarian thali prices remained relatively stable. This stability can be linked to a 3% year-on-year decline in broiler chicken prices, which has offset some of the cost increases.
Looking ahead to December, there is optimism regarding vegetable prices. Fresh arrivals are expected to stabilize market rates, potentially offering relief to consumers facing rising food costs.
Q1. What is the significance of Thalinomics in analyzing inflation trends?
Answer: Thalinomics provides valuable insights into how price fluctuations of essential food items affect meal affordability, reflecting broader economic and agricultural trends.
Q2. What caused the rise in thali costs in November 2024?
Answer: The 7% year-on-year increase in vegetarian thali costs was primarily driven by sharp rises in vegetable prices, particularly potatoes and tomatoes.
Q3. What is the current price of a vegetarian and non-vegetarian thali?
Answer: As of November, the vegetarian thali costs ₹32.70, down 2% from October, while the non-vegetarian thali is priced at ₹61.50, up 2% year-on-year.
Q4. How did non-vegetarian thali prices behave despite rising costs?
Answer: Non-vegetarian thali prices remained stable, primarily because broiler chicken prices decreased by 3% year-on-year, offsetting other ingredient costs.
Q5. What is expected for vegetable prices in December?
Answer: There is anticipation of relief in vegetable prices due to expected fresh arrivals, which are likely to stabilize market rates.
Question 1: What is Thalinomics primarily concerned with?
A) Environmental economics
B) Affordability of food in India
C) Agricultural subsidies
D) Global food security
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: In November 2024, what was the price of a vegetarian thali?
A) ₹30.50
B) ₹32.70
C) ₹34.00
D) ₹35.80
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What was the primary factor for the increase in thali costs in November 2024?
A) Rise in wheat prices
B) Increase in vegetable prices
C) Decrease in oil prices
D) Stable chicken prices
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which vegetable's price surged by 35% year-on-year in November 2024?
A) Carrots
B) Onions
C) Tomatoes
D) Spinach
Correct Answer: C
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