Rising costs impact Diwali spending in Ahmedabad
Increased prices for essentials and electronics are forcing consumers to rethink festive outlays as inflation affects purchasing power.
Households in Ahmedabad are facing price pressures on everyday essentials during the Diwali festive season, according to a report by The Times of India. Retail inflation in Gujarat stood at 5.11 per cent in September, while national food inflation reached 7.74 per cent, based on Union ministry data.
Jayendra Tanna, president of Gujarat Traders’ Federation, said spending capacity has come under pressure because lifestyle expenses have increased above inflation. He noted that people have already cut fringe expenses, which could affect traditional Diwali celebrations.
In the electronics sector, Bhavesh Waria, president of Ahmedabad Electronics Dealers’ Association, said home appliance prices have risen between 15 per cent and 30 per cent. Waria attributed this to higher electronic chip and freight costs, as well as anti-dumping duties, noting that demand is down 20 per cent year-on-year.
Vandan Shah, an associate member of the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India, said dry fruit demand is down 60 per cent while prices have risen 25 per cent. Shah stated that lower purchasing power and higher freight costs have reduced order volumes.
Jigar Soni, president of the Jewellers Association of Ahmedabad, said demand for gold and silver remains healthy due to recent price reductions. However, Soni noted that pure gold and silver prices are higher compared to last year, leading consumers to explore different options to suit budgets.