New Delhi, April 19 -- Akshaya Tritiya 2026 is set to deliver record-value sales of precious metals even as sky-high prices reshape how India buys gold and silver, with trade expected to exceed Rs 20,000 crore, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).

That marks a jump from last year's estimated Rs 16,000 crore, despite bullion rates touching unprecedented highs.

"Akshaya Tritiya has traditionally been one of India's most auspicious occasions for purchasing gold... While gold continues to dominate, the nature of purchasing is evolving significantly in response to steep price escalation," said Praveen Khandelwal, Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk and Secretary General of CAIT.

Gold has surged from around Rs 1,00...