Weekly Review: Paddy & Rice
25-Apr-2026 07:54 PM
Fluctuations in Paddy and Rice Prices Reflect Buying Activity by Millers and Exporters
New Delhi: Paddy arrivals remain limited in the key markets (*mandis*) of major producing states. Meanwhile, the ongoing crisis in West Asia has not yet subsided; consequently, uncertainty persists regarding rice exports—particularly Basmati rice. Millers/processors and stockists/exporters are procuring paddy and rice with utmost vigilance, caution, and prudence. As a result, during the week of April 18–24, price fluctuations ranging from ₹100 to ₹200 per quintal were recorded. No significant shift in market sentiment is anticipated in the near future.
Exports
The export performance of Non-Basmati rice has largely tapered off, as African nations constitute its primary market. Conversely, the bulk of Basmati rice exports is directed toward countries in West Asia, the Middle East, and the Gulf region—areas where the geopolitical climate remains turbulent.
Delhi
During the week under review, the Narela market (*mandi*) in Delhi witnessed daily paddy arrivals of 2,500–4,500 bags. Consequently, the price for the '1509 Hand' variety declined by ₹105 to settle at ₹4,415 per quintal. In Chhattisgarh, the Bhatapara and Rajim markets recorded daily paddy arrivals of 4,500 bags and 400–800 bags, respectively; there, the price of the 'HMT' variety dropped by ₹200 per quintal.
Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, only the Shahjahanpur and Aligarh markets witnessed sporadic paddy arrivals, yet no significant changes in prices were observed. Markets in Haryana currently remain deserted; however, the Bundi and Kota markets in Rajasthan are receiving regular paddy arrivals. During the week, a price increase of ₹200–₹300 per quintal was recorded in these markets.
Rice
As for rice, price fluctuations were observed in tandem with the prevailing dynamics of demand and supply. In Bhatapara, the price of Shri Ram rice fell by ₹200 to stand at ₹6,200 per quintal.
Amritsar
Similarly, in Amritsar, a decline ranging from ₹50 to ₹350 per quintal was recorded in the prices of various varieties and grades of rice. In the Bundi market as well, prices firmed up by ₹100 to ₹350 per quintal. A mixed trend was observed in Delhi's Naya Bazar.