The Government of Kerala, Department of Economics and Statistics issued Consumer Price Index Numbers for Agricultural Labourers and Industrial Workers for the month of December 2024, on February 2nd 2025.
The CPI numbers, which indicate the cost of living, are presented using two different bases:
- Base 2011-12 = 100
- Base 1998-99 = 100
These indices play a crucial role in determining the cost of living adjustments for workers employed under the Minimum Wages Act in Kerala. The data reflects the variation in prices over time and provides insights into the economic well-being of labourers in the state.
Key Highlights:
- Thiruvananthapuram saw a slight increase in both the 2011-12 and 1998-99 base indices, indicating a marginal rise in the cost of living for workers.
- Kollam and Kottayam also recorded small increases, showcasing similar trends across different regions.
- Centres like Pathanamthitta and Palakkad showed stable indices, with no change observed from November to December 2024.
Consumer Price Index Table for December 2024:
| Centre | Linking Factor | Index Numbers (Base 2011-12 = 100) | Index Numbers (Base 1998-99 = 100) |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 2.11 | 209 | 441 |
| Kollam | 2.09 | 205 | 428 |
| Punalur | 2.10 | 201 | 422 |
| Pathanamthitta | 2.03 | 217 | 441 |
| Alappuzha | 2.05 | 205 | 420 |
| Kottayam | 2.08 | 217 | 451 |
| Mundakayam | 2.17 | 216 | 469 |
| Idukki | 1.97 | 209 | 412 |
| Ernakulam | 2.03 | 202 | 410 |
| Chalakkudy | 2.00 | 220 | 440 |
| Thrissur | 1.87 | 214 | 400 |
| Palakkad | 2.09 | 198 | 414 |
| Malappuram | 2.00 | 207 | 414 |
| Kozhikode | 2.02 | 215 | 434 |
| Wayanad | 1.93 | 206 | 398 |
| Kannur | 2.02 | 218 | 440 |
| Kasargod | 2.05 | 224 | 459 |
Understanding the Impact:
The CPI is an important tool used to monitor inflation and adjust wages accordingly. It helps to ensure that workers’ incomes keep pace with the rising cost of living. The numbers reflect varying levels of inflation across different regions of Kerala, which could help in making informed policy decisions for the welfare of agricultural and industrial workers.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Department of Economics & Statistics Kerala website or reach out to them via email at ecostatprice@gmail.com.
