From CK Nayak
NEW DELHI, Sep 24: Meghalaya, which has been cutting a sorry figure on the national index on several factors, has achieved a new low with the Abode of Clouds now recording the worst figures as far the much-dreaded inflation is concerned.
Data released recently by the central government shows that Meghalaya has recorded the maximum increase in CPI (Consumer Price Index) at 19 points. This abysmally high rate of inflation has been attributed to rise in prices of rice, pulses, beef, groundnut oil, onion, chillies (both green and dry), firewood, bus fare, an official statement said.
The major contribution towards the rise of inflation came from food groups to the extent of 8.38 points, mainly due to increase in prices of rice, wheat atta, pulses, milk, mutton, sugar, jaggery, chillies, turmeric, garlic, onion, mixed spices, etc. The rise in the index varies from state to state, the data says.
Landlocked Meghalaya is also devoid of railway lines barring a patch in Mendipathar in North Garo Hills which hinders supply of commodities by goods train unlike other states. Citizens are suffering from high rates of inflation and ever-increasing prices of essential commodities but pressure groups and certain political parties are vehemently opposing introduction of railways over fears of influx.
Retail inflation at the national level for farm workers and rural labourers eased marginally to 7.37 per cent and 7.12 per cent, respectively in August this year as compared to the previous month.
Different political parties have criticised the high rate of inflation in the hill state, mostly on extortion, illegal tool tax and other factors.