New Delhi. Arrivals of Kharif rice, especially Basmati rice, have begun to decline in important markets in major producing states, while supplies of non-Basmati or general rice have already virtually ceased. Domestic and export demand for rice has strengthened. The season of weddings and auspicious festivals is boosting domestic demand for Basmati and 'A' grade general rice. Similarly, strong demand for Basmati rice is expected in Muslim-majority Gulf countries during Ramadan, for which processors and exporters are preparing well. Exports to the United States are also expected to return to normal.

During the week of February 7-13, 10,000-15,000 bags of paddy arrived daily, but due to limited buying and selling, prices fluctuated by 25-50 rupees. Prices remained elevated at the Najafgarh market with daily arrivals of 2,000-3,000 bags.

The Tarawadi market in Haryana also saw daily arrivals of 2,000-3,000 bags of paddy, and prices rose by ₹100-200 per quintal. Tohana received 3,000 bags of paddy on February 9th. Rajasthan's Bundi market saw a heavy daily arrival of 25,000-30,000 bags of paddy, but prices softened by ₹100-150 per quintal amid limited trading. At the Kota market, prices rose by ₹200-₹300 per quintal despite daily supply of 30,000-35,000 bags of paddy.

As far as rice is concerned, its trade is picking up again. During the week under review, rice prices in Amritsar, Punjab, generally increased by ₹100-₹200 per quintal, while prices of one or two varieties softened by ₹100.

Rice prices also increased by up to ₹250 per quintal in the Nagar Mandi of Uttarakhand. Almost all rice varieties saw strong demand from buyers. Similarly, rice prices remained firm in the Bundi market of Rajasthan with strong trading, while the Karnal market of Haryana remained largely stable. In Delhi's Naya Bazaar, the price of 1121 steamed rice rose by ₹300 to ₹9,000 per quintal.