Wheat rises on rainfall concerns

Wheat prices rose in key spot markets on Monday as lower arrivals and concerns over below-normal monsoon rainfall lifted sentiment, while maize and rice prices remained largely unchanged, traders said. 

Market participants warned that weak rainfall and rising El Niño concerns could affect kharif sowing and later hurt rabi crop production. In Vashi, Navi Mumbai, wheat prices rose by ₹100 to ₹2,700 per 100 kg. Traders said delayed monsoon progress and forecasts of deficient rainfall have raised concerns over agricultural output and irrigation availability. 

Lower reservoir levels and declining soil moisture could pose risks for rabi crops such as wheat.In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, wheat prices increased by ₹20 to ₹2,680 per 100 kg.   Traders attributed the rise to seasonal lower arrivals, as farmers remain occupied with field preparation for kharif sowing, particularly soybean cultivation. Maize prices remained stable but sentiment stayed cautious. Prices in Indore were unchanged at ₹2,350 per 100 kg, while rates in Davanagere, Karnataka, held at ₹1,800–₹2,050 per 100 kg. 

Traders noted maize remains vulnerable to rainfall shortfalls due to its high water requirement. Rice prices were also steady in Vashi, though traders expect upward pressure in coming weeks.  Basmati 1409 traded at ₹9,600–₹9,700 per 100 kg, while 1509 stood at ₹8,200–₹8,300.   —Informist