Goa, Aug. 31 -- Coconut prices have climbed to as much as Rs 60-Rs 70 a piece in mar kets across the State, sugar has touched nearly Rs 70 per kg, jaggery is selling at around Rs 60, while pulses, rava, veg etables and other kitchen essentials have also become costlier, leaving families staring at a steadily mounting grocery bill. The price surge comes at a difficult time for families, with Ganesh Chaturthi approaching on September 14 and demand for coconuts, sugar and other ingredients expected to rise as households prepare traditional sweets, snacks and offerings.

At Ponda market, coconuts are currently selling between Rs 40 and Rs 60 depending on size, with small coconuts available at around Rs 35. Larger coconuts are fetching Rs 60 o...