Matta rice price rises in Kerala, crosses ₹60 per kg
Retail prices of matta rice in Kerala have surged above ₹60 per kg, driven by higher paddy prices in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, crop damage from water shortages and alleged stock hoarding by procurement agencies. In contrast, white rice prices remain stable due to subsidised FCI supplies under the Open Market Sale Scheme.
Kottayam: Following a brief hiatus, the price of matta rice (red parboiled rice) has surged. The retail price has crossed ₹60 per kilogram. While it was being sold at an average rate of ₹52 until last week, the price suddenly jumped by around ₹10. However, there has been no increase in the price of white rice.
The price hike is attributed to the increase in paddy prices in paddy-producing states. In Andhra Pradesh, the price of paddy has reached up to ₹32 per kilogram. The rates stand at ₹33 in Tamil Nadu and ₹32 in Karnataka. This marks an increase of up to ₹6 in Andhra Pradesh and up to ₹10 in other states.
Furthermore, crops were damaged in Karnataka due to water scarcity. Mills allege that agencies that procured paddy on a large scale have hoarded stock to drive up prices. The bulk of matta rice sales occurs in South Indian states.
Meanwhile, the price of white rice did not see a major increase as the Food Corporation of India (FCI) is selling white rice to the open market at less than ₹30 per kilogram under the Open Market Sale Scheme. Varieties like Jaya and Surekha are available in the open market at an average rate of ₹42. White rice is sourced from Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Odisha.
An average of 12,000 tonnes of rice arrives in Kerala daily, the majority of which is white rice. Matta rice is in high demand only in certain districts. The hike in rice prices has started reflecting in the stock held by companies as well. Leading companies are supplying new loads at increased prices.
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Source : Mathrubhumi.Com
