Egg Prices Soar to Record Levels in Maharashtra Amid Winter Demand and Shrinking Supply
Egg Prices Soar to Record Levels in Maharashtra Amid Winter Demand and Shrinking Supply
Maharashtra is witnessing an unprecedented surge in egg prices as supply shortages coincide with increased winter consumption. In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, wholesale egg rates have crossed Rs 7 per piece, while retail prices are hovering around Rs 8, according to local officials and market sources. Other regions of the state are also seeing similar trends, albeit with minor variations.
The state currently faces a deficit of approximately 1.5 crore eggs per day, whereas winter demand climbs to nearly three crore per day. This imbalance between supply and demand is largely responsible for the price spike.
Shitalkumar Mukane, Additional Commissioner of the Animal Husbandry Department, explained that the shortage stems from outbreaks of bird-related diseases in major production hubs in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu during the monsoon season.
“Despite disease outbreaks, poultry farmers in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu delayed replacing sick birds, which sharply reduced overall egg production. The arrival of colder weather has naturally increased egg consumption,” Mukane said.
As a result, Maharashtra has been forced to rely heavily on egg imports from other states, particularly Tamil Nadu. However, even these inter-state supplies have been affected, as the producing states are struggling to meet domestic requirements.
Shoppers in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar have been paying around Rs 8 per egg, reflecting the sharp rise in wholesale rates.
While consumers face higher costs, poultry farmers are experiencing a profitable phase. Mohammed Syed, a poultry businessman from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, noted, “Eggs are fetching profitable prices at the moment. Recent good rainfall in Marathwada has lowered the cost of corn, which is a major component of poultry feed.”
Syed also highlighted that the current wholesale rate of Rs 7.10 per egg is substantially higher than the Rs 6.10–6.30 range observed on the same date last year.
Anita Jinturkar, a poultry expert at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Vasantrao Naik Agriculture University, attributed the rising demand to shifting eating habits.
“Consumers are turning to eggs more for their rich nutrition and minimal risk of contamination. Additionally, eggs have become a common ingredient in popular dishes such as samosas and biryani, and other simple recipes as well. Higher prices for poultry farmers are a welcome development,” she said.
