Poppy sowing to begin soon: Prices yet to rise

19-Sep-2025 07:20 PM

New Delhi. Recently, state governments have issued opium cultivation leases to farmers. Sources indicate that in the major producing states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, farmers are expected to receive the same amount of leases as last year. Sources indicate that while leases for some farmers have been reduced, new leases have been issued to some farmers. Overall, this year, opium cultivation is expected to cover approximately the same area as last year. Sowing at production centers will begin during Navratri, with new arrivals beginning in March-April.

It is noteworthy that the Central Narcotics Bureau issues licenses to farmers for opium cultivation. According to information received, approximately 1.10 lakh opium leases were issued to farmers last year. Illegal opium cultivation has begun in Jharkhand and Imphal in the past few years.

Production

Poppy production in the country has been increasing over the past two years. In view of the increased production, although the government has banned poppy imports for two years, some imports are still taking place. It is noteworthy that during the year 2023, poppy production in the country was 6/6.50 thousand tons, which increased to 7.5/8 thousand tons in the year 2024. Production is estimated to be 8.50/9 thousand tons in the year 2025.

Stock loss deal

During the current season, stockists have suffered losses in poppy imports. It is noteworthy that during May, due to the government's announcement of a ban on poppy imports through 2025, poppy prices rose by approximately ₹250 per kg between May 19th and 20th, 2025. Traders anticipated further price increases in the coming days, leading stockists to stock up at higher prices, and farmers to hold back. At that time, the price of poppy tinopal in the Neemuch market was quoted at Rs. 1700/1720, while the price of turkey poppy in Kolkata reached Rs.1750/1760. The Delhi market also reached Rs.1750. This rise was driven by speculation in the market. Subsequently, prices began to decline due to speculators selling at higher prices. Stockists were forced to sell at lower prices. Currently, the price of poppy tinopal in Neemuch Mandi is being quoted at Rs. 1425/1450, while the price of turkey in Kolkata is being quoted at Rs. 1520/1525. The price in Delhi market is Rs. 1450, but even at these prices there are no buyers.

Slowdown-Rise

Informed sources say that there is no possibility of a rise in the price of poppy in the near future. In the months of October-November, the price will continue to fluctuate between Rs. 20/30. Whereas, trade estimates are being made for a rise in the price in December-January.