Sun Feb 02 12:17:07 UTC 2025: ## India’s Stubborn Food Inflation Linked to Extreme Weather, Says Economic Survey
**New Delhi, [Date of Publication]** – India’s persistent food inflation, defying global trends, is largely attributed to frequent extreme weather events, according to the government’s latest Economic Survey. Tabled in Parliament on Friday, the report highlights a significant decline in onion and tomato production over the past two years, directly linked to adverse weather conditions in key agricultural states.
The survey cites data showing that crop damage in 2024 surpassed the previous two years due to extreme weather, including a dramatic increase in heatwaves. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded heatwaves on 18% of days between 2022 and 2024, compared to just 5% in 2020 and 2021. This, combined with supply chain disruptions, has contributed to higher food prices.
While acknowledging the impact of geopolitical factors, the survey notes that their effect is waning, leaving extreme weather as a primary driver of price volatility. To address this long-term challenge, the report recommends developing climate-resistant crops, improving price monitoring systems, minimizing crop damage and post-harvest losses.
The government’s commitment to tackling this issue was further underscored Saturday with the announcement of a six-year mission to boost pulse production, aiming for self-sufficiency in tur, urad, and masoor lentils. This initiative seeks to enhance food security and mitigate the impact of future climate shocks on food prices.
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