Record Production of Nigella Seeds Expected
05-Feb-2026 07:28 PM
New Delhi: Reports indicate that nigella seed production is expected to be higher in the major producing states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh this season, due to farmers receiving fair prices for their produce. Sources say that this year, farmers in Gujarat have sown nigella seeds instead of cumin. It is estimated that the area under nigella cultivation in Gujarat has increased by two and a half times this year, while in Madhya Pradesh, the sown area has reportedly doubled. The crop condition is currently good. If the weather remains favorable in the coming days, nigella seed production in the country could reach record levels this year.
Production Estimates
Due to increased sowing and favorable weather, nigella seed production in the country this year could reach 6-6.25 lakh quintals. Mr. Sanjay Rupalia of Shri Ji Global FMCG Limited, a renowned and reliable firm in Gondal, says that nigella seed production in Gujarat during the current season will be around 4-4.25 lakh bags. Production in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan is expected to be around 2 lakh bags. Last year, nigella seed production in Gujarat was estimated at approximately 1.60-1.75 lakh bags, and in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan at 1 lakh bags. It is noteworthy that in 2024, nigella seed production in the country was 2.50 lakh bags, and in 2023, it was 3.50-3.75 lakh bags.
Low Stock
According to informed sources, the stock of nigella seeds in the markets of the producing centers is currently quite low because most of the stock has been consumed due to lower production compared to consumption last year. According to one estimate, the current stock is considered to be 5,000-6,000 bags, while last year, at the time of arrival of the new crop, the stock was 35,000-40,000 bags. In 2024, the stock was 1.25-1.50 lakh bags.
Moderate Price Increase
Traders say that due to a shortage of stock and the fact that the new crop is still about a month away, the prices of nigella seeds (kalonji) will remain firm for now. Prices might even increase by 8-10 rupees in the coming days if demand rises. However, a significant drop in prices is expected once the new crop arrives. It is worth noting that the arrival of new stock in the markets will increase after March 15th. As a result, the price of nigella seeds could fall to 200-210 rupees per kilogram in April. Currently, the price is being quoted at 250-255 rupees in the Neemuch market of Madhya Pradesh and 260-265 rupees in the Gondal market.