Gandaki Province CPI Shows 2.87% Inflation as Food Prices Fall but Services Rise

According to the latest CPI figures, Gandaki Province recorded an overall inflation of 1.03%, slightly below the national average. However, the provincial breakdown reveals a contrasting trend between food and non-food categories. Food and beverage prices in Gandaki actually declined by -2.24%, indicating relief for households on groceries, vegetables, and other essentials. This drop in food prices suggests better supply conditions or lower demand in the short term.

On the other hand, non-food and services inflation rose by 2.87%, showing that households are paying more for housing, education, clothing, and utilities. The urban sector recorded a 2.97% rise in non-food inflation, compared to 2.56% in rural areas, underscoring the higher cost of living in cities. Despite cheaper food, essential services and lifestyle-related expenses continue to push household budgets upward.

Interestingly, rural Gandaki showed a mixed trend: overall inflation was marginal at -0.03%, as falling food prices offset service costs. Meanwhile, urban areas carried more inflationary pressure, particularly in non-food categories. This divide reflects how urban households are increasingly vulnerable to rising service-sector costs, while rural families benefit more from declining food prices.