Bhubaneswar, May 14: Odisha has recorded a significant improvement in price stability, emerging as the fifth least expensive state in India, according to recent retail inflation data. The state’s retail inflation rate declined to 2.50% in April 2025, down from 3.21% in March, showcasing notable progress in controlling market prices.
Once considered among the costliest states, Odisha now stands below the national average inflation rate of 3.16%. This improvement is reflected across both rural and urban areas—rural inflation dropped to 2.57%, while urban inflation fell to 2.25%.
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation highlights price drops in key categories such as fish, meat, fruits, spices, cereals, and personal care products. This broad-based decline in prices has contributed to easing the financial burden on households.
In December 2024, Odisha’s retail inflation had peaked at 6.96%, raising concerns at both state and central levels. At one point, in May 2024, inflation in the state had reached a worrying 7.11%, making it the most expensive market in India. The rise was largely attributed to Odisha’s dependence on imports from other states for essential goods.
Telangana recorded the lowest inflation in April at 1.26%, while Kerala saw the highest at 5.94%. Most other states, except a few like Karnataka, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir, recorded inflation rates between 2% and 4%, indicating an overall national trend of price stability.
Experts see Odisha’s inflation drop as a result of improved supply chains, local sourcing strategies, and timely administrative measures to stabilize essential commodity prices.
This marks a major turnaround for the state and reflects its progress in achieving economic balance and protecting consumer welfare.