Kalonji: No Risk of Price Decline
04-Aug-2026 07:03 PM
New Delhi. Kalonji prices have been firm for some time now. Given the current situation, there is no likelihood of a price drop, as the bulk of the total produce has already reached the markets, resulting in significantly reduced fresh arrivals. It is worth noting that while prices initially fell after the new crop arrived—dropping to ₹170–175 per kg during May–June due to higher production compared to the previous year—they have since recovered; currently, market rates stand at ₹250–260 per kg.
Notably, in key producing states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, not only did the sowing area increase, but weather conditions also remained favorable for the crop. Consequently, national Kalonji production doubled this year, reaching the 6–6.25 lakh quintal mark, compared to 3–3.25 lakh quintals the previous year. For context, production stood at 2.50–2.75 lakh quintals in 2024 and 3.50–3.75 lakh quintals in 2023. In Gujarat, the leading producer, this year's yield is estimated at 4–4.25 lakh quintals, whereas earlier estimates for 2025 had projected only 1.60–1.75 lakh quintals. Production in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh is estimated at 2 lakh quintals, up from 1 lakh quintals the previous year.
Low Stocks
Sources indicate that market stocks dwindled due to the lower domestic Kalonji production recorded in 2024 and 2025. While the stock of Kalonji (nigella seeds) in the markets stood at 1.25–1.50 lakh quintals during the new crop season of 2024, it dropped to 30,000–35,000 bags in 2025 and further declined to 5,000–6,000 bags in 2026. The new Kalonji crop season begins in March–April.
Arrivals and Prices
According to available information, current arrivals of Kalonji in Gujarat's Rajkot and Gondal markets are around 200–300 bags, with prices quoted at ₹160–185 depending on quality; meanwhile, arrivals in Madhya Pradesh's Neemuch market are around 500–600 bags, with prices quoted at ₹165–190. In the Delhi market, prices are hovering at ₹215–220 per kilogram. Sources believe that due to declining market arrivals, there is no likelihood of a price drop; prices are expected to remain firm in the coming days, as there are still 7–8 months remaining before the arrival of the new crop.