The catering industry in Kerala is in crisis following a ₹993 increase in the price of commercial cooking gas cylinders, effective May 1. The All Kerala Caterers Association (AKCA) organized protests across all 14 districts, emphasizing the adverse impact during the peak festival and wedding season. AKCA State president A.J. Zachariah urged the government to restore regulatory authority over fuel prices, which was dissolved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration. Stakeholders reported that small catering units are incurring daily losses of approximately ₹2,000, while medium-sized establishments are facing losses of around ₹5,000. The protests reflect broader concerns about the industry's sustainability, especially as many caterers struggle to adapt following an LPG shortage linked to the West Asia crisis. With around 1,000 catering units in Ernakulam district alone, the situation is dire for many who cannot afford alternatives like firewood. The AKCA continues to advocate for change to mitigate the financial strain on the sector.