Mysore/Mysuru, Dec. 7 -- From Rs. 6.70 to Rs. 7.60; Retail price Rs. 8 per egg

The biting cold across Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi, Arunachal Pradesh and other northern States has turned South India's poultry egg industry into a booming business, with production and sales witnessing a sharp surge.

Egg consumption typically rises during winter, but this season's demand has been exceptionally high. Severe cold conditions have further fuelled the requirement for eggs, drawing large quantities from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

For the first time, prices have risen by Rs. 1.50 to Rs. 1.70 per egg, with wholesale rates climbing from Rs. 5.50 per egg to Rs. 6.70 and Rs. 7.60 - yet demand remains unabated. The retail egg prices stand at Rs. 8 to Rs. 8....