From Rs 150 to Rs 600: Drumstick Turns Costly in Pune After Crop Damage

Pune, 25th November 2025: Retail prices of drumsticks have shot up to an unprecedented ₹600 per kg in the city, following the end of the local season in Maharashtra and limited arrivals from other states. The vegetable, which normally sells for ₹150–₹200 per kg, is expected to remain expensive for at least a few more weeks, traders said.

A common ingredient in curries, soups and sambhar, drumsticks (shevga) have suddenly turned into a luxury item for Pune households. With winter approaching, demand from both families and hotels typically increases. However, this year’s spike in demand has coincided with a severe drop in supply, triggering a sharp rise in prices.

At present, shoppers are buying drumsticks one or two at a time, with each stick priced between ₹30 and ₹60 depending on quality. Pune’s supply usually comes from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and some local belts. But heavy rainfall earlier in the season damaged crops in Maharashtra, reducing local output significantly. The season in Tamil Nadu has also reached its final stage, further tightening availability.

Currently, Gujarat is the main supplier, shipping produce to multiple states. Even so, the quantity reaching Pune is far below the city’s requirement. Under normal circumstances, four to five tonnes of drumsticks arrive at the market yard daily, with wholesale rates ranging from ₹150–₹200 per kg.

This week, arrivals have plunged to around 500 bags, pushing wholesale prices to ₹300–₹400 per kg depending on grade. With wholesale rates soaring, retail prices have climbed sharply as well. Retailer Prakash Dhamdhere confirmed that drumsticks are now selling for ₹600 per kg in several neighbourhood markets.