Chicken prices fall up to Rs 80 a kilo in Karthika Masam

Hyderabad: Chicken prices in Telangana have fallen by about Rs 50 to Rs 80 a kilo from last week as demand drops during Karthika Masam. Many people avoid non-vegetarian food during the month.

Devotees wearing Ayyappa garlands and Shiva devotees stay away from meat for the whole month. Those observing Karthika Masam vrats also avoid it. With fewer buyers, traders appear to have been forced to cut prices.

Last week, a kilo of chicken cost more than Rs 300. It now sells at Rs 260 in many areas.

Chicken prices range from Rs 200 to Rs 270 across districts

In Hyderabad, skinless chicken sells at Rs 260 to Rs 270 a kilo. Warangal buyers pay between Rs 250 and Rs 260. Meanwhile, a kilo costs around Rs 260 in Kamareddy. In Nizamabad, however, prices range from Rs 200 to Rs 260 depending on the area.

Usually, chicken shops draw crowds on Sundays. This time, the scene in the market has changed a little. Still, buyers who held back for years because of high prices are now keen to buy again.

But the drop has hurt poultry farmers and traders. They fear losses from the fall in market prices. This is despite lower costs for rearing, feeding and transporting the birds. (NSS)