Chicken prices cross ₹350/kg in Bengaluru, further hike likely amid supply disruptions

Protests by poultry farmers in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, rising maintenance costs, and reduced production have pushed chicken prices sharply higher in Bengaluru, impacting households and restaurants alike.

Bengaluru’s non-vegetarian consumers are facing a sharp price shock as chicken rates in the city have climbed steeply over the past few weeks. The price of skinless chicken, which is widely preferred by health-conscious buyers, is now being sold between ₹340 and ₹350 per kilogram, marking a significant increase.

Just a month ago, in December, chicken was available at ₹260-₹280 per kg. Traders now warn that prices may rise further and could soon touch ₹370-₹380 per kg if the current situation continues.

Why are chicken prices rising?

The surge in prices is largely linked to developments outside Karnataka. Poultry farmers in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have been staging protests, demanding higher payments from poultry companies. Farmers say that maintenance and operational costs, including feed, electricity, labour, and transportation, have increased sharply, making current compensation unviable.

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At the same time, chicken production has declined, leading to lower availability in the market. The supply has failed to match the existing demand, pushing prices upward.

Bengaluru and several parts of Karnataka depend heavily on Tamil Nadu for the supply of live chicken and chicken meat. Disruptions in these supply chains have had a direct impact on retail prices in the city.

The ripple effect is already being felt beyond meat shops. Non-vegetarian restaurants are expected to revise menu prices, with popular chicken-based dishes likely to become more expensive in the coming days.

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For regular consumers, especially families and budget-conscious buyers, the sudden rise has come as an unpleasant surprise. Traders caution that unless protests ease and production stabilises, prices may remain high in the near future.