Farmers Disappointed by Lower Basmati Prices Amidst Low Yields

Lower Basmati Prices This Year:
Farmers in the Kaithal district are expressing their disappointment as the prices for Basmati rice are significantly lower than last year. Currently, Basmati rice is being sold for about ₹5,500 to ₹5,600 per quintal, a steep drop from last year’s rate of ₹6,000 to ₹6,300 per quintal. This price decline is causing significant financial strain on farmers, who are struggling with reduced earnings despite the ongoing harvest season.

Reduced Production and Unfavorable Weather Impacting Farmers:
In addition to the lower prices, farmers are facing the challenge of reduced production this year due to insufficient rainfall. The lack of proper monsoon rains has led to lower yields, further compounding the financial challenges for farmers in the region. The dual blow of lower prices and decreased output has left the farmers frustrated, as they had hoped for a better harvest season to make up for previous losses.

Other Rice Varieties Facing Price Decline as Well:
It’s not just Basmati rice, but other rice varieties are also seeing lower prices. The 1121 variety is being sold at ₹3,900 to ₹4,000 per quintal, while the Muncha variety is fetching ₹3,400 per quintal. Additionally, the 1718 variety, based on the harvesting method, is priced differently — ₹3,900 for hand-harvested rice and ₹3,300 for combine-harvested rice. The prices of the 1885 variety have also dropped, with rates ranging between ₹3,800 and ₹3,900 per quintal. Local market associations are concerned about the ongoing decline in rice prices, which is leading to mounting frustrations among the farming community.