Weather Alert / El Nino Triggers Food Price Surge across India

New Delhi, Sep 16: The El Nino weather phenomenon has begun to show its impact across India, weakening the monsoon and triggering irregular rainfall.

As a result, crop yields have fallen, and consumers are now feeling the pinch with rising food prices. After sugar, the prices of eggs and chicken are climbing rapidly.

According to reports, sugarcane output has already declined, and experts warn that maize yields may also drop. If that happens, prices could surge further. Rice and soybean crops are also expected to be affected.

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Scientists have cautioned that this could be one of the strongest El Nino events of the century, with its peak impact likely by the end of the year.

The immediate fallout is visible in sugar prices, which have risen sharply ahead of the festive season. Compared to last year, sugar prices have jumped by 40 per cent.

The commodity, which cost ₹49 per kg before the festive season, has now stabilized at around ₹65 per kg in August. The decline in sugarcane harvest due to excessive rainfall and pest attacks last year has worsened the situation.

Maize, another crucial crop, is also under pressure. Prices have already risen by 3 per cent, and further yield losses could push up the cost of cattle feed. This would make poultry farming more expensive, driving up the prices of eggs and chicken.

Looking ahead, experts fear that reduced rainfall could hit sugarcane output in 2026-27. To meet demand, ethanol production from sugarcane may be cut, with maize being used instead. However, maize yields are also expected to decline this year, compounding the challenge.

With weaker monsoons, reduced soil moisture, and rising heat, El Nino is not only hurting farmers but also straining household budgets. The ripple effects on essential commodities are expected to continue in the coming months.