Egg prices in several Indian cities have surpassed Rs 8 per unit this winter, marking a significant increase that has raised concerns among consumers and industry stakeholders alike. The surge in prices is attributed to a combination of factors, including seasonal demand, rising feed costs, and supply chain disruptions.
As of late December 2025, cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata have reported egg prices reaching Rs 8.50 or higher, a notable increase from the previous year when prices hovered around Rs 5 to Rs 6 per egg. The price escalation has been particularly pronounced in urban areas where demand for eggs tends to be higher due to their popularity as a source of affordable protein.
The Indian poultry industry, which is one of the largest in the world, has faced several challenges in recent months. The onset of winter typically sees an increase in egg consumption, as many households incorporate eggs into their diets during the colder months. This seasonal demand has put additional pressure on supply, contributing to the rising prices.
In addition to seasonal factors, the cost of poultry feed has risen sharply. According to industry experts, the prices of key feed ingredients, such as maize and soybean meal, have increased due to adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields. The monsoon season in 2025 was marked by irregular rainfall, which impacted the production of these essential feed components. As feed costs account for a significant portion of the overall expenses in poultry farming, the increase has had a direct impact on egg prices.
Moreover, supply chain disruptions have further exacerbated the situation. The COVID-19 pandemic had already strained logistics and distribution networks, and while many sectors have recovered, the poultry industry continues to face challenges. Transportation costs have risen due to fuel price hikes, and labor shortages in some regions have slowed down the supply chain, making it difficult for producers to meet the growing demand.
The implications of rising egg prices extend beyond consumer budgets. Eggs are a staple food item in many Indian households, particularly among lower-income families who rely on them as an affordable source of nutrition. As prices increase, there is concern that families may reduce their consumption of eggs, which could lead to nutritional deficiencies, particularly among children and pregnant women.
The government has been monitoring the situation closely. In response to the rising prices, officials from the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying have indicated that they are exploring measures to stabilize the market. This may include discussions with poultry farmers and feed manufacturers to address the rising costs of feed and ensure a steady supply of eggs to consumers.
Historically, egg prices in India have been subject to fluctuations due to various factors, including seasonal changes, feed costs, and market demand. In 2021, for instance, prices spiked due to a combination of increased demand during the pandemic and supply chain disruptions. However, the current price rise is notable not only for its magnitude but also for the broader economic context in which it is occurring.
The Indian economy is still recovering from the impacts of the pandemic, and inflationary pressures have been a concern across various sectors. The rise in egg prices is part of a larger trend of increasing food prices, which has been attributed to supply chain issues, rising input costs, and changes in consumer behavior.
As the winter season progresses, it remains to be seen how egg prices will evolve. Industry analysts suggest that if feed costs stabilize and supply chains improve, prices may eventually level off. However, if adverse weather conditions persist or if demand continues to outstrip supply, consumers may face sustained high prices in the coming months.
In conclusion, the rise in egg prices in India this winter is a multifaceted issue that reflects broader economic trends and challenges within the poultry industry. As prices exceed Rs 8 in several cities, the implications for consumers, particularly those in lower-income brackets, are significant. The situation warrants close attention from both policymakers and industry stakeholders as they navigate the complexities of food supply and demand in a changing economic landscape.
