The common man felt the shock of inflation, the prices of wheat and flour increased, roti disappeared from the plate

Roti or Indian bread is a staple in the daily diet of most people across the country. It is an essential part of lunch or dinner for the majority, and a plate of roti is considered incomplete without it. Wheat-based rotis have been a key source of nutrition for generations, and it is not just an affordable food option but also a cultural necessity. However, in recent times, the rising cost of wheat and flour has become a significant concern, making the simple act of eating roti a bit more difficult for many. The price hikes in wheat and the increase in the cost of essential cooking ingredients like oil, spices, and vegetables have created a challenging situation for the average consumer.

A Major Cause Behind the Roti Price Hike

The prices of wheat and flour have been on a consistent rise for the past few months. Wheat is a crucial ingredient used in the preparation of roti, and any fluctuations in its price directly affect the cost of the bread. According to recent reports, the cost of wheat has risen sharply, and with it, the price of roti has gone up too. This has become particularly evident in eateries and local restaurants where the cost of a single roti has now reached as high as ₹20.

Several factors have contributed to this price hike. One major reason is the increased demand for wheat in both domestic and international markets. Climate changes, reduced yields, and inflation have also played a part in raising wheat prices. As a result, the price hike has begun to impact people at all levels of society, from the common man to those who run food businesses.

The Struggle of Common People with Rising Roti Prices

For many, a daily meal of roti has become a necessity. People from all walks of life depend on wheat flour for their sustenance, but with the rising cost of wheat, it is becoming more difficult to afford a simple meal. In many cities, people working in offices or other establishments often rely on hotels or local eateries for their daily meals. A hot, freshly made roti has always been a part of that meal. However, with the increasing price of rotis, even these simple meals are starting to feel like a luxury.

Prakash Dwivedi, a resident of Delhi, shared his concerns, stating that in recent times, the price of rotis has risen to ₹20 for just one piece. He said, “Earlier, eating rotis in restaurants or dhabas was much cheaper. But now, it’s hard to keep up with these rising costs. How can anyone afford to eat these expensive rotis every day?” Dwivedi’s frustration is shared by many others who are now questioning whether they should reduce their roti consumption to save money.

The situation is particularly grim for people who cannot afford to make roti at home due to the high cost of wheat flour. Many of these individuals are being forced to compromise on their diet, substituting wheat rotis with more expensive alternatives or simply cutting back on their daily meals.

The Hotel Industry’s Perspective on Rising Costs

Hotel owners and restaurant managers are also feeling the pressure of rising wheat and flour prices. These establishments have to buy wheat and flour in bulk, and the cost of purchasing these materials has risen substantially. As a result, hotel owners have been compelled to increase the prices of rotis. Some hotel owners have explained that they are left with no choice but to sell a single roti for ₹20, as selling it at a lower price would result in losses. According to one restaurant manager, “If we don’t raise the price, we won’t be able to cover our expenses. Wheat prices have gone up, and we cannot bear the burden of those increased costs without passing them on to customers.”

In fact, the situation is not limited to the price of rotis alone. Other food items that require wheat flour, such as parathas, naan, and other bread varieties, have also seen a surge in their prices. The restaurant and hotel industries, despite the price hike, are still trying to provide value to their customers while maintaining the quality of food and service.

The cost of production has become a major factor in how these businesses operate. With rising wheat prices, the difficulty of running a hotel or restaurant has multiplied, and for customers, the simple pleasure of eating roti with their meals has become an expensive affair.

Impact on Lower-Income Groups and Families

The rising price of rotis has impacted lower-income groups the most. For families who rely heavily on wheat as their primary source of food, the price hike is a serious financial burden. These families, who used to purchase wheat flour in large quantities to prepare rotis at home, now find it difficult to manage their household budgets.

Anjali, a homemaker from Uttar Pradesh, explained how the rise in wheat prices has affected her family. She shared, “Earlier, I used to buy wheat flour in bulk for the month. But now, I’m forced to buy smaller quantities, and that too at higher prices. I’m finding it increasingly difficult to cook meals for my family, especially when the cost of food keeps rising.”

The situation is especially tough for those living in rural areas, where wheat is the primary staple food, but incomes are low. Many families in such areas rely on local markets for their daily wheat supply, but the soaring prices are forcing them to compromise on food quality or quantity.

Can the Price of Roti Be Stabilized?

While the situation remains bleak, the government and other organizations may need to take proactive measures to stabilize wheat prices and help consumers. Price regulation, import and export policies, and subsidies could be potential solutions to mitigate the impact of rising wheat prices. For now, people across the country are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain their daily habits, especially when it comes to consuming something as fundamental as roti.

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