Tomato prices, which surged by 142% on year in November, would continue to grow over the next 45-50 days.
During the months of October to December, states such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra are major tomato suppliers.
However, excessive rains in these regions (Karnataka-105 %, Andhra Pradesh-40 %, and Maharashtra-22 % higher between October 1st to November 24th have destroyed standing crops, limiting supplies.
As per ground contact, the situation in Karnataka is so bad that places like Nasik are exporting tomatoes to the state. As a result, prices climbed by 142% year on year in November. Prices are projected to climb further over the next 45-50 days till arrivals from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan commence in January.
The skyrocketing price of tomatoes has netizens scratching their heads in the midst of heavy inflation. People are seeking refuge in memes and jokes as retail prices in several places across the country exceed Rs.100 per kg.
According to government data, retail tomato prices in most cities throughout India are Rs.80 per kg, but they have risen to as high as Rs.120 per kg in a few southern states due to widespread rains. Even in the nation's capital, the price of the humble vegetable skyrocketed, prompting a crackdown on hoarders.
While some joked that the tangy vegetable is ideal as a gift for newlyweds during this wedding season, others remarked that fuel is now facing serious competition. Many even began an online Photoshop battle, changing numerous popular memes to fit in the circumstance. From Money Heist allusions to proposing with a Tomato Ring, the memes have netizens laughing out loud while feeling terrible for themselves.
Check out some of the funniest memes here:
Middle Class! #TomatoPrice pic.twitter.com/iCf0QzC3Qa
— phunnyRabia (@PhunnyRabia) November 25, 2021
#Tomato sellers right now : pic.twitter.com/kW20vw3Wp0
— Tweetera🐦 (@DoctorrSayss) November 23, 2021
Congo @upasana_07 your tweet is featured in the IndiaToday's best memes on #TomatoPrice hike. 😄https://t.co/gHPvYJ2r0Q https://t.co/SBBY4WKbF0
— The Thinking Ape🙈 (@Howzzda_Josh) November 25, 2021
I hope this doesn't end like the great onion crisis of 2019...https://t.co/w93Gp6zUYq
— Noname (@Noname37129231) November 25, 2021
#Tomato Rs 120/kg ....
— Varsha saandilyae (@saandilyae) November 23, 2021
Me going to make Tomato soup ...
Meanwhile ..mom: pic.twitter.com/0qGHSnf2s2