Weekly Review: Paddy & Rice
02-May-2026 08:37 PM
Paddy and Rice Prices Soften Amidst Weak Demand
New Delhi: The supply of Basmati and fine-grade paddy in major producing markets continues to decline steadily, even as there remains a considerable wait before the arrival of the new crop begins. The sowing of the Kharif-season paddy crop is set to commence next month, and by October, the new harvest is expected to be ready and start arriving in the markets. In the interim, harvesting and processing of the new Rabi-season paddy crop have already begun in several states, including Telangana.
Disruptions in Shipments
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is causing severe disruptions to export shipments of Indian Basmati rice destined for countries across West Asia, the Middle East, and the Gulf region. Consequently, exporters find themselves in a state of uncertainty. Approximately 70 percent of India's Basmati rice exports are directed to this region, where Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iraq, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain serve as the primary purchasing nations.
Delhi
During the week spanning April 25 to May 1, the Narela market in Delhi witnessed an average daily arrival of 2,000 to 3,000 bags of paddy. Notably, the price of the '1509 Combine' variety of paddy rose by ₹145, reaching ₹4,390 per quintal. Trade activity and price levels for other varieties remained subdued. In Chhattisgarh, the Bhatapara and Rajim markets recorded daily arrivals of 4,500 bags and 2,500 bags of paddy, respectively, with prices registering either stability or a marginal upward trend.
Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh (specifically Shahjahanpur) and Rajasthan (Bundi and Kota), paddy arrivals remain sporadic and limited. These markets witnessed price fluctuations ranging between ₹100 and ₹150 per quintal.
Rice
As far as rice is concerned, the supply and availability situation within the domestic market remains comfortable, and the government also holds substantial stocks of the grain. Export demand for Basmati rice has weakened due to shipping issues. The government has signaled an impending hike in petrol and diesel prices.
Delhi
Trading in various varieties and grades of rice remained sluggish at Delhi's Naya Bazar, leading to a decline in prices ranging from ₹100 to ₹250 per quintal. The situation remained similar in Amritsar, Punjab. Rice prices also remained weak at the Bundi market in Rajasthan.