The Department of Economics & Statistics, Kerala, has released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) Numbers for Agricultural Labourers and Industrial Workers for February 2025, reflecting the cost of living across various districts in the state.
The CPI is critical for determining minimum wages under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, and influences wage revision policies across industries and sectors.
Highlights from February 2025 CPI:
- Kasargod recorded the highest index at 224 (2011-12 base) and 459 (1998-99 base), despite a slight dip from January.
- Kottayam and Kannur followed closely with indices of 219 (2011-12 base).
- Palakkad, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Ernakulam showed no change from January, indicating stable living costs.
- Chalakkudy, Kottayam, and Kozhikode saw a 1-point rise, reflecting slight increases in cost of essential commodities and services.
- Punalur, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Mundakayam, and Ernakulam remained unchanged, suggesting consistent price trends in those regions.
| Centre | Feb 2025 (New Base 2011-12) | Feb 2025 (Old Base 1998-99) |
| Kasargod | 224 | 459 |
| Kottayam | 219 | 456 |
| Kannur | 219 | 442 |
| Kozhikode | 217 | 438 |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 213 | 449 |
The CPI figures are vital tools for understanding inflationary trends affecting low-income groups, especially in agriculture, construction, and industrial sectors. These indices influence wage negotiations, price subsidy calculations, and overall labour welfare planning.
For more details, visit the official Department of Economics & Statistics website or contact them via email at ecostatprice@gmail.com.
