The latest Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) data shows inflation rising to 8.29% in November -- a concerning reminder that essential goods are still out of reach for many families struggling to cover basic needs.

While the inflation rate is lower than the 11.38% recorded in November last year, the recent rise -- driven mainly by food prices -- is cause for worry. The cost of everyday items, from vegetables to staple foods, continues to increase, while wage growth never being enough to keep up with these rising expenses.

For ordinary citizens, the impact is worrying; many households simply cannot absorb this increase without cutting back on food, healthcare, or education -- all essentials that no one should have to compromise on.

After years of high inflation, it is clear that ensuring a decent standard of living for all is becoming increasingly difficult. If essential goods remain expensive, the hardships faced by citizens will deepen -- an outcome we cannot afford to ignore.

At this point, it is crucial that policymakers prioritize making necessities affordable through interest-rate adjustments, transparent pricing, and stabilized imports. Without such long-term measures, the prices of essentials will continue to rise whenever there is a disruption.

The rising cost of essentials also shows that markets remain vulnerable to inefficiency and sudden shocks, and consumers’ basic needs must be protected through targeted subsidies and stronger safety nets. 

Better monitoring, fair competition, and improved supply chains are essential, therefore, to keep prices stable and protect the people from unpredictable spikes.

The rising inflation rate is not just a statistic -- it is a call to take effective action before economic pressure continues to erode the well-being of millions.