Factors behind rising vegetable costs in Kartik
The month of Kartik is upon us, a time often associated with crisis in rural Bengal. In the northern regions of the country, this period is referred to as "Monga kal," or the season of famine. During this time, agricultural activities decrease, leading to a reduction in the earnings of farm laborers. The Aman rice is in its growing stage, and there is less variety of other crops available. The supply of summer vegetables significantly diminishes, hitting rock bottom. Seasonal vegetables begin to appear only towards the end of Kartik, with their supply increasing in late Hemanta, or early Agrahayan.