Egg prices soar in Assam as retail rates near Rs 10; local eggs jump to Rs 15

Guwahati: Consumers across Assam faced a sharp jump in egg prices this week, with retail rates climbing to around Rs 9–10 per egg and a tray (30 eggs) now fetching Rs 240–260 in city markets, driven by supply disruptions and rising input costs.

Traders and consumers said the surge began late last week and accelerated over a few days as wholesale rates rose and interstate movement tightened.

Market sources said the spike has added roughly Rs 40–Rs 210 to what households pay per tray (30 eggs), depending on previous local rates, while “local” or desi eggs are commanding as much as Rs 15 each in peri-urban outlets.

Retailers blamed higher feed prices, constrained supplies from major producing states, and increased demand from bakeries and eateries. “We are forced to pass on costs to customers,” said a vendor at Tinsukia 8 pm market.

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Assam, and the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) are the nodal bodies responsible for poultry oversight and market interventions.

Officials from the state department said they were monitoring supplies and advised traders to avoid hoarding; DAHD’s recent reports underline long-term programmes for rural poultry but signal limits to short-term price control.

Critics and some opposition voices accused the government of failing to develop local production, noting that “eggs still leave the state even today,” an allegation government spokespeople rejected as an oversimplification.

Economists contacted for this report urged targeted feed subsidies, expedited transport clearances, and immediate support to backyard and smallholder producers to stabilise markets.

Households, especially low-income families, said the rise has hit protein intake and forced them to reduce consumption; nutritionists warned shortfalls could affect children and pregnant women.

Markets expect relief only after feed costs ease.