Summer Shock: ACs, Fridges, Electronics Prices Soar as Manufacturing Costs Rise

• Prices of ACs, fridges, coolers, and TVs are increasing due to rising manufacturing costs and a weakening rupee.
• Entry-level 5G phones, previously 10,000 rupees, now cost 13,000-14,000 rupees and could reach 17,000-18,000 rupees soon.
• A 32-inch smart TV, 6,500 rupees a year ago, is now 8,500 rupees and may hit 10,000 rupees by May.
• Mass-segment ACs, refrigerators, and washing machines will also see price hikes, potentially impacting demand.
• A 3-star 1.5-ton AC, 32,000-34,000 rupees last summer, is expected to cost 37,000-40,000 rupees from April.