Bhubaneswar, Nov. 13 -- Odisha recorded a retail inflation rate of 7.17 per cent in October, well above the national average of 6.09 per cent, placing the state fifth among Indian states. Rising prices of essential food items, particularly vegetables, have added to the pressure on household budgets, with rural areas recording a higher inflation rate than urban centres.

According to the latest report of the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, rural inflation in Odisha stood at 7.74 per cent in October, while the rate in urban areas was 5.63 per cent.

The rise in vegetable prices has been a major factor behind the increase in the cost of living. Onion prices recorded a 116 per cent rise, while garlic became 61 per c...