Foodgrains steady across mkts amid heatwave impact

Scorching temperatures curb supply inflows, while buying interest sustains pricing across major agricultural trading centres nationwide

Prices of key foodgrains showed a largely steady trend across major spot markets on Wednesday, with wheat and rice holding firm, while maize prices edged higher in select centres due to supply constraints and improved demand, traders said. 

In Indore, wheat prices were unchanged at ₹2,610 per 100 kg, supported by balanced demand and limited arrivals, according to local trader Gaurav Kochar. Market arrivals remained subdued as scorching temperatures, exceeding 40°C in parts of Madhya Pradesh, discouraged farmers from bringing produce to mandis. 

Extended exposure to heat and logistical challenges have led many farmers to delay sales. Arrivals were also impacted by ongoing government procurement, although volumes remain significantly lower than last year. Data from the Food Corporation of India showed wheat procurement in the state at 1.66 million tonnes as of Sunday, down 73% year-on-year. 

Unseasonal rains during late March and early April delayed harvesting and affected crop quality, thereby slowing procurement. Despite an upward revision in the state’s procurement target to 10 mn tonnes from 7.8 mn tonnes, spot prices have remained stable.In Kota, Rajasthan, wheat prices were steady at ₹2,300–₹2,425 per 100 kg, with arrivals rising to 80,000 bags. 

Traders noted that purchases remained aligned with demand, while government procurement continued to lend support to prices. Similarly, in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, wheat prices held at ₹2,700 per 100 kg amid adequate supplies and modest demand.

Maize prices in Indore rose ₹25 to ₹2,075 per 100 kg, driven by sluggish arrivals and stronger demand. Traders attributed the supply tightness to heatwave conditions, which kept farmers away from markets. Additionally, expectations of reduced acreage in the upcoming kharif season have boosted buying interest. In contrast, maize prices in Davanagere, Karnataka, were steady at ₹1,750–₹1,900 per 100 kg, with arrivals unchanged at 2,000 bags. Rice prices in Vashi remained flat, with 1401 basmati quoted at ₹9,700–₹9,800 per 100 kg and 1121 basmati at ₹10,000–₹10,200.