CRISIL data says Indian homecooked vegetarian food cost climbed up more than non-vegetarian food and why it is concerning

Cooking a meal at home is often considered a more affordable option than eating out, but rising prices of everyday ingredients are putting additional pressure on household budgets. In September 2026, the cost of preparing a vegetarian thali in India increased by 10% compared with the same month last year, while a non-vegetarian thali became 6% more expensive, according to Crisil Intelligence’s monthly Roti Rice Rate indicator.