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Date : 14.08.2013

Cotton will fetch good price, says TNAU

GOOD PRICE FOR COTTON The Domestic and Export Market Intelligence Cell (DEMIC) of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University has said that since the price of cotton will hover between Rs. 4,800 and Rs. 5,100 a quintal during January-February 2014, farmers can take up sowing in Avani-Puratasi (August-October). DEMIC arrived at the assessment after studying the market at Konganapuram Co-operative Marketing Society. At present farmers are getting a price of Rs. 5,200 to Rs. 5,500 a quintal for long staple cotton. Expected Kharif arrivals from all major growing States would stabilise cotton price during October- December.

Onion prices decrease after recording a high

Prices that hovered around Rs. 5,000 a quintal for theNasik variety on Monday were ruling between Rs. 4,000and Rs. 5,000 on Tuesday.— file photo With the increase in the arrivals of onion crop at the agricultural produce marketing committees (APMCs), the prices that had shot up in the last few days have started coming down. The spurt in onion prices is being attributed to the panic among onion merchants about shortfall in the produce, especially in the Nasik market, the main market for onion in the country. 2

According to onion traders in Hubli, which is one of the main markets for the produce in Karnataka, the panic is mainly because of the fact that the farmers in Maharashtra did not get the expected yield last year because of poor rain during the rabi season. With arrivals decreasing in the Nasik market, the merchants panicked which resulted in the sudden rise in price. Onion traders here said that the Union government’s decision to allow exports, bringing down arrivals in the local market, had nothing to do with the price rise. “No exporter would like to buy onion at the rate of Rs. 6,000 a quintal as he would not have any margin at all. And, moreover, why would the other countries buy onion at this rate from India, when they get it at cheaper rates from Egypt, Yemen and China,” said Saleem Byahatti, director of Hubli APMC and an onion trader. According to him, things have started improving with the arrival of onions grown at Challakere in Chitradurga district, Ajjampur in Chikmagalur district, and other places. Fresh arrivals have made an impact on the prices. Prices that hovered around Rs. 5,000 a quintal for the Nasik variety on Monday came down to between Rs. 4,000 and Rs. 5,000 per quintal on Tuesday. And, it was between Rs. 3,500 and Rs. 4,000 for the Challakere variety on Tuesday. From Saturday to Tuesday, there has been a decrease of Rs. 1,500 a quintal in the Hubli market. The Hubli market on Tuesday saw an arrival of 140 truckloads of onion and in the Bangalore market it was around 180 truckloads, with a majority being from the Challakere region. The assessment of traders is that by the first week of September, the prices might decrease as the arrivals from the irrigated land in Challakere, Ajjampur, and other districts of central and north Karnataka, and from Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh are expected to increase by that time. “Since it is raining, the standing crop is not being harvested in irrigated land. It is only a matter of few days and there will be sufficient arrivals of onion from Challakere, Ajjampur and Kurnool,” said HDMC councillor and onion trader Abdul Wahab Mulla. Although the erstwhile undivided Dharwad district (comprising Dharwad, Haveri and Gadag) is a major producer of onion, it is mostly under rainfed cultivation and the yield will start arriving at the APMCs by November. As arrivals would be huge by that time there would be further reduction in the onion prices. 3

CoS meet to wipe onion tears

The panel is planning to crack down on hoarders and enhance the availability of onions Priced between Rs. 60 and Rs. 80 per kilogram in several parts of the country, onions are bringing tears to housewives. Concerned at the problem, the Committee of Secretaries is meeting here on Wednesday to take steps — including a crack down on hoarders — to ease the situation. Onion produce in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka was damaged due to excessive rain, which also delayed their arrivals. Mandi dispatches from the onion-producing districts of Lasalgaon and Pimalgaon in Nasik, Maharashtra have been lower by 40 and 27 per cent between April and July this year on account of the inclement weather. The officials, headed by Cabinet Secretary Ajit Seth, will also look at measures to enhance availability of onions, possibly including a nod for duty free imports. Thomas, Pawar meet On Tuesday, Minister of State for Food and Consumer Affairs K.V. Thomas spoke to Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar on the issue. The government is closely monitoring the situation before deciding on allowing duty free imports on government account. Shortfall Although there is a shortfall of about 8.56 lakh tonnes in the production of the bulb this year compared to last year, there is no immediate move to ban exports or set an export price to dissuade traders. But there is a suspicion that onions are being hoarded by traders and even big farmers for speculation. In 2012-13, India exported 18.23 lakh tonnes of onions compared to 15.53 lakh tonnes during 2011-12. Normally, onion prices tend to rise between September and November as the stored onion stocks get depleted by August, September. Once the rabi stocks arrive the situation normalises. Declining market arrivals Compared to last year, this year market arrivals declined by up to 40 per cent during June and July due to creation of “artificial scarcity,” sources in the Food Ministry sources said. For instance, the modal price of the commodity in Lasalgaon on August 1 was Rs. 2401 per quintal. It shot up to Rs. 4300 per quintal on August 12. 4

The country has a stock of about 9 lakh tonnes of onions, which should help it tide over the situation till the next kharif crop arrives in the beginning of October. However, if prices continue to rise, we will have to enhance availability, Mr. Thomas told The Hindu . In 2011, the Centre had sold subsidised onions through its Nafed outlets.

Farmers’ grievances day

The agricultural grievances day meet would be held at the collectorate at 10.30 a.m. here on Friday (August 16). Petitions already submitted would be taken up for discussion along with the current issues concerning agriculture, a release here on Tuesday.

Tail-end areas yearning for water

Heavily silted irrigation channels and bone dry beds decelerate the flow of water There seems to be no end in sight for the woes of tail-end area farmers in Karur and Tiruchi districts as they continue to yearn for the water released from the Cauvery into the irrigation channels some days ago. Beset with drought conditions for a particularly long period that drained them all of energy and spirit, farmers in the tail-end areas of Karur district such as Nangavaram, Nachalur, and Thayanur along with the farmers in the borders of Tiruchi district including Ettarai and Koppu regions that fall under the Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Srirangam Assembly constituency were hoping that the water released into the Kattalai High Level Channel would some how reach their fields in time for taking up farm operations. However, the heavily silted irrigation channel coupled with the bone dry beds that absorbed water quickly decelerated the flow impeding water from reaching the tail-end areas. Farmers in the regions have been demanding for long to take up dredging works in the irrigation channels to facilitate easy flow of water. But the PWD River Conservancy Division could not take up the works owing to a plethora of problems, most of which were not concerning the farmers. Delay in assessing the situation, processing the plans, sanctioning of funds, and getting administrative clearance for the works were just a few of the hindrances that worked against farmers’ interests. “Suddenly rains in Kodagu region flooded the Cauvery and forced the PWD to let water in irrigation channels that branch off Cauvery at Mayanur. The officials were least prepared to assist the region farmers to utilise the full flow as water simply could no go beyond 5

certain distance in the irrigation channels courtesy the heavy silt and wild growth,” points out a floriculturist S. Gurumurthy of Koppu. “We have been pleading with the State government for the renovation of irrigation channels including South Bank Canal and Kattalai High Level Channel that feed the fields in the border of the two districts. Shutters and sluices in the channels must have been renovated and the damaged items must have been replaced. But none of those demands were met and we are forced to suffer now when there is flow in the river and we could not utilise it,” says deputy secretary of the Cauvery Delta Farmers’ Welfare Association Kavandampatti R. Subramanian. The agony is that when the river is carrying water in full the tail-end areas of the channels are still yearning for water. That situation must be addressed expeditiously to quench the thirst of farmers, Mr.Subramanian says.

Egg rate

The National Egg Coordination Committee egg rate was fixed at Rs. 3.20 on Tuesday, according to sources here.

Water storage improves in tanks

Water release from Mettur reservoir has helped enhance the storage in Pudukottai tanks. About 30 per cent of the water realised in the release has been stored in 80 tanks of the district, Collector C. Manoharan said at a meeting to review the preparations to be made for the samba season. The Collector said that adequate stock of fertilizers, seeds, and farm implements had been kept ready and it had been targeted to sanction Rs. 719 crore as crop loans in the district during the samba season. Renovation of water bodies He directed the officials to undertake renovation of water bodies under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme in order to store the water being released from Mettur dam, according to a press release here.

Mettur level 6

The water level in Mettur dam stood at 119.13 feet on Tuesday against its full level of 120 feet. The inflow was 9,750 cusecs and the discharge 18,002 cusecs. — Special Correspondent

Tea at stake

Workers plucking leaves at a tea garden in Rohini, Darjeeling on Tuesday as the strike called by the GJM in demand of a separate State of Gorkhaland entered its 11th day.— Photo: Lila Sah

Inflow down at Mettur Dam

The inflow at Stanley Reservoir in Mettur continues to fall as the level stood at 119.13 feet at 6 p.m. on Tuesday as against its Full Reservoir Level (FRL) of 120 feet. PWD officials said that the inflow was 9,750 cusecs while the outflow was 18,812 cusecs. The storage was 92.08 thousand million cubic feet (tmc ft) as against its capacity of 93.47 tmc ft. PHASE II OF OPERATIONS AT NEW INT’L TERMINAL The second phase of shifting international operations from the old to new international terminal at Chennai Airport will start from August 14. 7

Meet on ecosystem conservation

ECOCASD 2013 to be organised from October 3 to 5 The Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, in association with the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, is organising the second edition of the International Conference on Ecosystem Conservation and Sustainable Development (ECOCASD 2013) here from October 3 to 5. The event is co-organised by the Ambo University of Ethiopia that hosted the first edition of the conference in 2011. The focal theme of the conference is Climate Change, Sustainability of Aquatic Ecosystems, and Food Security. The scientific sessions will cover 15 themes related to sustainable natural resource management, biodiversity, sustainable fisheries, responsible tourism, IT and ecosystem management, and related subjects. The conference is arranged in connection with the platinum jubilee celebrations of the University of Kerala and the Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries. A galaxy of eminent scientists is scheduled to attend the seminar to be arranged in connection with the conference. Prof. Daniel Pauly from the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada, will deliver the keynote address on marine fisheries conservation in the context of climate change. A spokesman for the organising committee of the conference said researchers and teachers from Ambo University would take part in the Kerala leg of the conference. A photo exhibition on Ethiopia’s geography, environment, and culture would be held at the conference venue. The ECOCASD 2013 is also supported by Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Kerala; AET Institutions of Bangalore; Sree Ayyappa College, Nagercoil; and the Centre for Marine Biodiversity, University of Kerala. Researchers, teachers, and students interested in presenting scientific papers are directed to submit abstracts of not more than 1,000 words on or before August 15. For details, contact A. Biju Kumar, Organising secretary, ECOCASD 2013 at email: [email protected]. Website: www.ecocasd2013.in. 8

Water level

Water level in the Papanasam dam stood at 127.25 feet. The dam had an inflow of 972.64 cusecs and 1,676 cusecs of water is discharged from the dam. The level of Manimuthar dam stood at 65.86 feet. The dam had an inflow of 28 cusecs and 55 cusecs is discharged. Kanyakumari Water level in Pechipparai dam stood at 27.20 feet, 66.05 feet in Perunchani, 11.78 feet in Chittar I and 11.87 feet in Chittar II.

Farm exports register 10 p.c. growth

Export of cashew and cashew kernel, however, registered a decline in 2012-13.— FILE PHOTO: K.K. MUSTAFAH The State’s agricultural exports rose by 10 per cent to Rs. 8,038.54 crore in 2012-13. Exports of commodities such as coffee, agricultural and processed food products, spices, Bangalore onion and gherkins increased in the last fiscal, while silk, cashew and cashew kernels witnessed a decline compared to 2011-12. The State exported agricultural commodities worth Rs. 5,158.66 crore in 2011-12. According to Karnataka State Agricultural Produce Processing and Export Corporation (KAPPEC) officials, commodity prices depend on production and demand situation and do not follow a linear path. Moreover, deficit rainfall in more than 150 taluks across the State during the last kharif season was the major reason for the sluggish growth in exports. The State’s total exports stood at Rs. 2,58,368.50 crore in 2012-13, an increase of 46 per cent over the previous year (Rs. 1,76,131.20 crore in 2011-12). Exports of farm commodities constituted 3.11 per cent of the total State’s exports. Coffee 9

Coffee products hold a commanding position in the export basket. The State exported coffee worth Rs. 3,534.38 crore in 2012-12 against Rs. 3,173.31 crore in 2011-12, an increase of 11 per cent. Gherkin Production of high quality gherkin led to an increased demand in the global market, with gherkin exports standing at Rs. 750 crore in the last financial year, which was Rs. 250 crore more than the export value in 2011-12. Exports stood at Rs. 300 crore in 2009-10. Over a lakh small and marginal farmers are involved in contract farming of gherkins through tie- ups with agribusiness companies in Chitradurga, Davangere, Tumkur, Gadag, Dharwad, Haveri and Hassan districts. The State contributes more than 80 per cent of India’s gherkin production. Firms from several States have entered into contract farming with famers in Karnataka to produce gherkins, KAPPEC officials said. Silk products The State shipped silk products worth Rs. 653.69 crore in 2012-13 against Rs. 898.69 crore in 2011-12, a decline of 27 per cent. The decline was due to increased silk production and export by neighbouring States such as Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu in recent years and increased competition from China in the global market, according to officials. Silk exports were Rs. 677.81 crore in 2010-11 and Rs. 701.56 crore in 2009-10. Cashew Exports of cashew and cashew kernels stood at Rs. 846.99 crore in 2012-13 against Rs. 1,002.69 crore in the previous year. Exports were Rs. 586.76 crore in 2010-11. The State exported agricultural processed food products worth Rs. 1,148.85 crore in the last fiscal against Rs. 762.94 crore in 2011-12. Exports of Bangalore rose onion were up from Rs. 100 crore in 2011-12 to Rs. 150 crore 2012- 13, an increase of 50 per cent, while flower exports totalled Rs. 50 crore in 2012-13. The State exported spices worth Rs. 904.63 crore in 2012-13 against Rs. 829.91 crore in the previous fiscal. 10

State to look into changes required for Kalasa-Banduri Nala project

Minister H.K. Patil inspecting the progress of the Kalasa-Banduri Nala project work in Kankumbi on Tuesday.— PHOTO: D.B. PATIL Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj H.K. Patil has said the State government will look into the need, if any, for addition or modification of the stand taken on the Kalasa-Banduri Nala (diversion) project, which will utilise 7.56 tmcft of water from the inter-State Mahadayi river, by the previous Bharatiya Janata Party government. However, he said he was not aware whether the previous government had already submitted Karnataka’s stand before the Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal, which would meet on August 21. Speaking to presspersons here on Tuesday, Mr. Patil said he would speak to the Minister for Water Resources as well as technical and legal experts and convey the State government’s views to its legal counsel so as to protect the interests of farmers in the north Karnataka region, who have been deprived of their water rights for several years. Mr. Patil, who, along with B.R. Yavagal, MLA, and farmer leaders, inspected work on the project at Kankumbi of Khanapur taluk on Tuesday, agreed that work was progressing slowly. He said that the first stretch of canal work had not been completed and previous governments had wasted nearly seven years. Farmers of 12 taluks in four districts — Belgaum, Gadag, Dharwad and Bagalkot — had been suffering without adequate water for a long time. It was during the S.M. Krishna government’s regime, when he held the portfolio of water resources, that the project was conceived and conceptualised and funds earmarked. 11

To a question on whether the project was only for drinking purpose or for meeting irrigation requirements, Mr. Patil said that the project also included drinking water requirements of the water-starved twin cities of Hubli–Dharwad. He said 200 tmcft of water from the Mahadayi was going to waste, even as people of the north Karnataka region were asking for 7.56 tmcft of water.

Research should benefit sugarcane farming : experts

Experts have expressed concern over the lack of transfer of farm technology to the field at a training programme on improved cane cultivation at University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) Dharwad on Tuesday. Speaking on the occasion, R.B. Khandagave, director, S. Nijalingappa Sugar Institute, Belgaum, said only 20 per cent to 25 per cent sugarcane technologies were being adopted in cultivation. L. Krishna Naik, Director of Extension, UAS, said there is lack of stability in cane production in Karnataka . To combat the incidence of white woolly aphids, the university initiated action to identify resistant sugarcane varieties. Research and development activities related to sugarcane are being carried out in the university. UAD will take steps to ensure that the outcome of these activities benefit the sugarcane growers and improve yield and quality, he said. The training programme has been organised by the S. Nijalingappa Sugar Institute, Belgaum, and UAS Dharwad.

Agri and retail expo on Friday

Canara Bank Circle Office, Mysore, will conduct an Agri and Retail Expo at Jayamma Govinde Gowda Kalyana Mantap in Kuvempunagar here on Friday at 10.30 a.m. Bank chairman and managing director R.K. Dubey will inaugurate the expo, according to a release. Eminent speakers from the agricultural sector will talk to farmers on various aspects of farming. Fertilizer dealers, seed distributors, tractor dealers, auto dealers, builders, and self-help group members will display their products at stalls put up by the bank, the release said. Also, a doctors’ meet has been arranged since August is observed as Doctors’ month, the release added. — Staff Correspondent 12

The man with fish fingers

Choice cuts:K. Mohanan, right, fishing cutter, and his assistant dressing tunas at the Shakthikulangara fishing harbour.— Photo: C. Suresh Kumar

runchy fish is an addiction. But when taking a bite, have you thought of the difficulty in cleaning and cutting fish? In Kollam, K. Mohanan is there to help. The 50-year-old well-known face at the Shakthikulangara fishing harbour starts work around 5 a.m., when people arrive to buy fish. On a good day, his work goes on till about 10 a.m. There are days when he and his three assistants clean and cut about 500 big fish — tuna, seer fish, barracuda, grouper, leather fish. With 40 years’ experience, he finds cleaning any fish a cinch. It hardly takes three minutes for him to clean and cut a medium-sized tuna. Tunas and seer fish are easier since they do not need scaling, he says. Catfish, red snapper and the grouper species, among them reef cods, need more effort. Cleaning a flounder is the most difficult job since it requires skinning. He does the job for individuals, restaurants and catering establishments and goes to seafood- exporting firms for filleting, gutting and steak- and loin-cutting. Watching Mohanan at the job is a pleasure. “My job is an art when done in the right manner, enjoying the work,” he says. Filleting is a skilled job, he adds. Fish cutting requires precision, and the all-important tool for the job is a razor-sharp knife, he says. A fish cut with a sharp knife can bring out its best flavour. While cutting a fish, he can be seen sharpening his knife at intervals on a whetting stone. When it comes to big fish, the first cut should be behind the gills to sever the head, he says. That makes gutting easy, and after 13

that, the fish can be easily cut into choice pieces. If customers do not prefer any particular choice, he and his assistants slice a large fish for making curry or frying. The head of a big fish, which is a delicacy, will have to be cut in a special manner to make the diner relish its true taste, he says. He is the man behind the bulk of the scaled and gutted reef cod exported to the Gulf region. This fish, known as Amur in the Gulf, is a delicacy among Arabs. While at the job, his whole concentration is on the knife. Never pull the blade towards you, always cut away from you, he advises. When tired, he takes a short tea break and comes back to the job because remaining fresh is an imperative safety measure while engaged in fast commercial cutting of fish. Catering units, export firms and restaurants pay him Rs. 4 a kg now. But when it comes to individuals, it depends on the size of the fish, starting from Rs. 30 for a fish like tuna. He learnt the skill from his father, K. Kunju Pillai, who had been the vice-president of the erstwhile Shakthikulangara panchayat for 16 years. Mr. Mohanan says he enjoys his job, and with the money earned from it, he was able to get his three sisters comfortably married off. ‘My job is an art when done in the right manner.’

Food prices to go up as farmers battle rain, wind and floods

Hundreds of banana trees uprooted in heavy winds in the Edakkattuvayal panchayat. — File photo It’s going to be a costly Onam for Keralites this year. Food prices are likely to go up as the farmers suffered huge losses following heavy rain in State. Thousands of hectares of paddy, vegetable cultivation and banana plantations in Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad and Idukki districts were inundated in rains in June and July. 14

Though a small player in the market for bananas during the Onam season, Ernakulam district is now facing a shortage of quality bananas ahead of the festival season. More than 800 hectares of crops, including paddy and bananas, have been submerged in Ernakulam district. According to figures provided by the department of agriculture, nearly 5,000 farmers have lost crops worth more than Rs.25 crore during the last two months. Most of the standing crops that went under water were paddy, tapioca, bananas and vegetables. ‘Lacks quality’ Officers tracking the quality and price of vegetables and fruits at Vegetable and Fruit Promotion Council, Kerala(VFPCK), said that 60 per cent of the supplies arriving at the Council’s 22 markets in Ernakulam were not of the best quality. Submersion of fields, especially banana plantations in low-lying areas, have forced farmers to harvest bunches even before they are mature. About 80 per cent of banana plants in low-lying areas were totally destroyed, said an official. The VFPCK markets notched up sales to the tune of Rs. 29 crore last year. The current year is unlikely to see such level of sales despite the high price of produces like nendran bananas, the price of which is ruling over Rs. 50 a kg (for the best quality) at the auctions. These markets have totalled sales of just over Rs. 6 crore so far this year, of which Rs.1.18 crore is from the sales of 694 tonnes of vegetables; Rs. 4.5 crore from 2,582 tonnes of bananas and Rs. 60 lakh from 176 tonnes of pineapples. There are 1,800 hectares of banana plantations and 1,300 hectares of vegetable cultivation under the purview of VFPCK in Ernakulam district. The average loss is around the range of 40 per cent and the situation will be sharply reflected in the market in the run up to Onam. Other districts Palakkad district has lost around 5,000 hectares of fields that came under paddy sowing ahead of the rains in June though the first information report by the department of agriculture said that only 724 hectares of paddy had been lost. The drought-like conditions had delayed sowing in the district and when the rains came the fields went under the floods. 15

‘Modern farming harms environment’

The greatest challenge faced by scientists in agriculture and allied branches is to reverse the adverse effect of modern agricultural practices on environment, speakers at a farm training programme observed. Addressing a training programme for Local Self Government Institution (LSGI) functionaries organised by the Centre of Excellence in Environmental Economics (CEEE) under the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) at the College of Horticulture here on Monday, scientist S. Sankar said that while enhancing productivity of crops, modern practices dented the environmental health. “Our forefathers never exploited nature as he ate whatever nature provided. Later generations began to extract more from nature,” he said. “Sixty percent of earth’s land area and 80 percent of energy is used for agriculture. “Today, confronted by the ill-effects of this strategy, we are bound to think in terms of re- establishing natural environmental wealth. Environment friendly agriculture is becoming a trend. Hope it will at least help us to arrest the decline of environment,” he said. Dr. P.K.Valsalakumari, Associate Dean, College of Horticulture, presided over the inaugural session. Dr. P. Indira Devi, Director, CEEE, welcomed the gathering and Dr. Jessy Thomas, Head, Department of Agricultural Economics, proposed a vote of thanks. The first batch of trainees consists of the presidents of selected grama panchayats. The training programme sponsored by Department of Environment aims to equip LSGI functionaries through intensive information input on controlled use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, societal impact of climate change and its mitigation, environment friendly agronomic practices and agricultural methods. 16

Dr. Jim Thomas, Dr. K. M.Sunil, Dr. George Thomas, Dr. N. Miniraj, Dr. Indiradevi and Dr. D. Girija handled the classes.

Heavy siltation may pose problems for farmers

The depth of the Tatichettu Orre stream has vanished owing to heavy siltation as a result of recent floods near Tonkini in Sirpur (T) mandal of Adilabad district.- PHOTO: S. HARPAL SINGH Hinterland agriculture in Adilabad will be under increased threat of floods in future what with major streams losing their prism or depth due to heavy siltation. Excessive sand deposits Excessive sand deposits are also likely to change the course of many important streams causing recurring disruption of agriculture. Heavy deposits of sand and silt have been noticed in all those streams which drain into Penganga and Pranahita rivers along the district’s border with Maharashtra on the banks of which, thousands of acres are taken up for cultivation, especially by poor farmers. Flash floods According to rough estimates, nearly 30 per cent of the nearly 6 lakh hectares of cultivated area in this hilly district lies on the banks of major and minor streams which are given to flash floods every time there is rainfall in the catchment areas. The Tatichettu Orre and Maddelavagu Orre streams in Sirpur (T) mandal, which are prone to flash floods, for example, have the difference between respective banks and stream beds obliterated owing to huge deposits from the recent floods. This change will make these water bodies overflow and submerge hundreds of acres of agriculture fields located close to the course of the streams. 17

“The district does not have a drainage system even for perennially troublesome streams as is required during such eventualities. There has to be proper maintenance of rivers and streams at least close to their discharge points to control sand and silt deposits,” reveals an engineer working in the Irrigation department when asked about the new threat to farming in the coming days. Quick inundation “Quick inundation of fields is not the only threat that farmers close to streams will face in the coming years. Flooding of water bodies will also result in more silt deposits in the agriculture bed rendering them uncultivable for at least a few months,” the official added. Excessive rainfall Meanwhile, about 50 per cent of the yield in cotton and soyabean crops is expected to be lost this year owing to the continuous spell of rainfall in the district. The excessive rainfall is also resulting in the loss of growth of plants and increase in investment in the shape of repeated application of fertilizer and pesticide. ‘The district does not have a drainage system even for perennially troublesome streams as is required during eventualities’

Onion prices skyrocket

In Karimnagar, a kilogram costs Rs. 60

Price of onions has been steadily increasing since a week.–File photo The price of onions has shot through the roof with consumers having to purchase it at Rs. 60 a kilogram in Karimnagar. Heavy rains in neighbouring Maharashtra and the Andhra Pradesh have caused extensive damage to onion crops, which has led to its short supply in the market. Incidentally, the price of 18

onions had been steadily increasing in Karimnagar since the last one week. The prices soared from Rs. 40 per kg to Rs. 60 per kg within a week, said a trader, Gopal, who operates from the busy Tower circle area. He said that they were forced to purchase onions at the rate of Rs. 5,500 per quintal against the normal rate of Rs. 1,500 per quintal. Crops submerged Another trader, Ramaiah, said that onions are usually cultivated in Adilabad and neighbouring Nagpur, Nanded and other districts of Maharashtra. But, the incessant rains had submerged the crop in the region and there was no yield, which had led to the price rise, he added. The traders said that the price of onions was expected to further shoot up to Rs. 80 to Rs. 100 per kilogram in the coming weeks. They said that the prices would stabilise only in the month of October when the new crop arrived. weather

INSAT PICTURE AT 14.00 hrs. Observations recorded at 8.30 a.m. on August 13th. Max Min R TR New Delhi (Plm) 34 27 tr 417 New Delhi (Sfd) 35 27 0 516 Chandigarh 33 26 tr 626 Hissar 35 27 0 372 Bhuntar 33 21 0 337 Shimla 22 17 tr 658 Jammu 32 25 1 808 19

Srinagar 32 18 3 153 Amritsar 33 26 7 445 Patiala 33 26 0 573 Jaipur 29 25 5 492 Udaipur 29 25 6 599 Allahabad 34 27 9 713 Lucknow 33 23 0 573 Varanasi 34 27 0 489 Dehradun 31 23 30 2281 Agartala 32 26 tr 645 Ahmedabad 33 26 6 702 Bangalore 28 21 0 332 Bhubaneshwar 33 26 13 589 Bhopal 28 24 tr 978 Chennai 30 25 0 333 Guwahati 35 26 0 604 Hyderabad 28 22 23 475 Kolkata 33 27 0 930 Mumbai 31 25 2 1954 Nagpur 30 24 9 1206 Patna 34 27 0 193 Pune 28 21 tr 530 Thiruvananthapuram 31 23 1 864 Imphal 32 23 3 606 Shillong 22 17 5 613 The columns show maximum and minimum temperature in Celsius, rainfall during last 24 hours (tr-trace) and total rainfall in mm since 1st June. RAINFALL South West Monsoon has been active over Uttarakhand and west Rajasthan. RAINFALL: Rain/thunder-showers have occurred at most places over Uttarakhand, at many places over Rajasthan, at a few places over Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh and at isolated places over rest of the region. The chief amounts of rainfall in cm are: (6 cm and above) HARYANA: Naraingarh 16, Jind 12, Jagadhari 7 and Morni and Sadhaura 6 each , HIMACHAL PRADESH: Nahan 21 and Renuka 19, JAMMU AND KASHMIR: Shalimar Agro 8, EAST RAJASTHAN: Kumbhalgarh 10, Khanpur 8, Mangrol and Asnawar 7 each, Aklera and Manohar Thana 6 each, WEST RAJASTHAN: Siwana 19, Bali 11, Desuri 9 and Ahore 7, EAST UTTAR PRADESH: Chhatnag 6, WEST UTTAR PRADESH: Muzaffarnagar 10, Deoband 9, Sahaswan, Amroha and Nakur 7 each and UTTRAKHAND: Tehri 9, Uttarkashi 8, Tharali 7, Chamoli, Karanprayag and Jakholi 6 each. 20

FORECAST VALID UNTIL THE MORNING OF 15th August 2013 : Rain/thundershowers would occur at many places over Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Rain/thundershowers would occur at many places over Rajasthan during next 48 hrs and decrease thereafter. Rain/thundershowers would occur at a few places over rest of the region during next 24 hrs and increase thereafter.

Onion prices make people cry, Delhi wants export ban

The price of onions in the wholesale market Tuesday was Rs.50 a kg, but in retail stores it ranged between Rs.60-80 a kg. |PTI File photo The prices of onions and vegetables, which have already sent the budgets of many homes in the national capital haywire, are expected to go sky high, vegetable vendors said here. The Delhi government plans to seek a ban on onion export.The price of onions in the wholesale market Tuesday was Rs.50 a kg, but in retail stores it ranged between Rs.60-80 a kg.

"There has been poor harvest of onions this year due to rain shortage in Maharashtra. Prices of 21

onions will continue to rise. There is inadequate stock to meet demands," Ram Dhan, a vegetable wholesaler in Azadpur Sabzi Mandi, told IANS. Hoarding by traders is also being blamed for the rise in prices but traders denied any wrongdoing.

"There has been no hoarding by us. We are just creating stocks so that we can meet the demand and supply. If we do not create stock right now, there will be months when the onion supply would be nil," said Mahendra Khuranna, owner of Jagriti Agro, a fruit and vegetable wholesaler in Sabzi Mandi. Delhi Food and Supplies Minister Haroon Yusuf said: "The chief minister (Sheila Dikshit) will write a letter to Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar to stop the export of onion." The spiralling prices of onion were deemed one of the factors which cost Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) its government in Delhi in assembly election in 1998. Since then it has failed to return to power. Women who manage households have been facing the greatest pinch as their budget has been greatly hit. "I used to buy three kg of onion for a week, but now I have cut down to one kg because the price has almost tripled," said Arati Negi, a 32-year-old homemaker.

"The overall price of vegetables has increased. Earlier, one could buy four-five different vegetables for a household of two people for Rs.150. But now, with onions selling at Rs.60-80, the budget has doubled. Onions will make people cry for real and it may actually turn out to be a poll issue," said Pallavi Majumdar, professor at Amity University. "I bought onions in bulk last week only for Rs.40. Though at that time I felt I should not have bought so much, now it is proving to be a blessing in disguise," said Namrata Kapoor, who lives in a joint family.

The Delhi government, which has already set up 350 onions vending stalls, has arranged 50 mobile vans to sell subsidised onions from Aug 17, said Yusuf. The minister said the state government would also urge Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan - from where onions arrive in Delhi - to take action against hoarders. The minister said the capital had a stock of 2,200 tonnes of onion and the people need not panic. Development Minister Raj Kumar Chauhan, who looks after the functioning of wholesale vegetable and fruit markets in the city, told reporters that they would punish hoarders. The Delhi unit of BJP has announced a protest rally Wednesday from Ashoka Road in central Delhi to the chief minister's official residence at Motilal Nehru Marg, also in in central Delhi. 22

Post harvest losses may cross Rs 2.50 lakh crores: Assocham

Post harvest losses in India has been pegged at Rs 2.50 lakh crore in FY14, according industry body, Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham). A report released by the trade chamber stated that post harvest losses amounted to `2.13 lakh crore in FY12. The report said that 30% of fruits and vegetables were rendered unfit for consumption due to spoilage after harvesting mostly due to absence of food processing units and unavailability of modern cold storages. “India’s current levels of food processing continue to be low in perishables categories like fruits and vegetables (2-3%), poultry (6-8%), fisheries (10-12%). This can be turned around by adopting innovative institutional mechanisms to upscale both our warehousing and logistics infrastructure with the objective of harnessing the efficiency of both public and private sectors including effective collaborations under principles of PPP,” Rana Kapoor, President of the chamber said. The report pointed out that by the end of 2012, total cold storage capacity was 301.1 lakh meters, which is around 12.9% of fruits and vegetable production. The chamber pegged the requirement of cold storage at 368.32 lakh tonnes. “At present only 22.3 per cent only 22.3 per cent of produced fruits and vegetable reached to the wholesale market in India,”, the report added. 23

Lens on Maharashtra in onion crisis meet

The role of Maharashtra's Congress-led government in not ensuring a steady supply of onion to major mandis of the state will be under the scanner at a meeting of the Committee of Secretaries (CoS) tomorrow. The meeting, to be chaired by Cabinet Secretary Ajit Seth, will discuss the situation arising out of the surge in the price of onion across the country over the weekend. The agenda note for the meeting says that from August 1 to August 12, about 1.8 lakh tonnes of the crop arrived at the five major mandis of Lasalgaon, Pimpalgaon, Manmad, Pune and Solapur, which was 40 per cent less than the over 3 lakh tonnes that arrived in the first 12 days of August 2012. "The state government of Maharashtra was requested to ensure that there is a steady supply of onion from the stocks into the market and intimate the Department of Consumer Affairs if there is any blockage in the supply chain as that causes prices to rise," the note says. It does not say whether the Maharashtra government actually sent an intimation about a blocked supply chain. According to the National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation (NHRDF), the premier institute for research on onion and garlic production, about 27.5 lakh tonnes of onion were stored in warehouses across India after the rabi crop of May-June. This was marginally less than the 29.5 lakh tonnes stored in the previous year. 24

July-September is considered the lean period for onion, during which demand is met from rabi stocks. The kharif crop starts arriving in markets at the end of September. At the beginning of August, stocks were estimated at 9-10 lakh tonnes — about 4.5 lakh tonnes of which were in Maharashtra. They were meant for consumption until the beginning of October. Onion prices during the lean period are temporarily affected because of factors including the depletion of the rabi stock, supply shocks and the monsoon. Over the long weekend of August 8-11, however, the modal wholesale price of onions shot up about 36 per cent from Rs 3,150/quintal (on August 8) to Rs 4,300/quintal (on August 12). "Something has gone wrong. It could be hoarding in the wake of rising prices," a Krishi Bhavan official said. Reports with the agriculture ministry suggest that fresh harvests in Andhra Pradesh would provide some boost to supplies before the Karnataka and Maharashtra harvests hit the market by the end of September. Until then, prices were "expected to be stable in the higher range". Ministry officials on Tuesday said kharif prospects were good and prices were expected to ease. "The kharif onion seed sowing started timely in almost all the kharif onion growing states since rains started timely, therefore harvesting is expected timely, which was delayed for last two years due to delayed monsoon," says a status note prepared by the ministry.

Brittle supply chain leads to soaring vegetable prices

Soaring vegetable prices have nothing to do with production, going at the same pace as last year. (AP) Despite the scare scenario painted for production trends for key vegetables, it turns out that there is no dip in availability. This includes onion, whose prices have flared in the past few weeks. 25

Data from the past two years compared with that for the current year indicates that the problem for the four vegetables that have a pan-India presence — onion, tomato, brinjal, potato — is because of logistics bedevilling the supply chain rather than any production woes. Related: Lens on Maharashtra in onion crisis meet For instance, onion production at the end of July this year is 17 million tonnes, about the same as last year. The production cycle for the crop is three months, which means the stock in the wholesale markets gets replenished every 45 days or so. Year on year, as figures show, the production of these four key vegetables has been running at the same pace as before. Potato, for instance, has peaked at 41 million tonnes as there is a glut in the markets. For instance, Agra, which accounts for seven per cent of the total cold storage capacity of the country, is catering only to potato farmers. The same trend shows for the two other major crops, brinjal and tomato. The softening impact of high stock is also visible in the monthly consumer price inflation. For instance, goods and beverages inflation in the new monthly CPI for July 2013 is at 11.24 per cent, which is a good 29 basis points lower than the index for July 2012. Related: Elevated food prices putting pressure on inflation in India, says RBI The fact that onion prices have suddenly flared despite the stable production is attributable to a brittle supply chain where traders can take advantage of short-term shortages. Of the total warehousing capacity of 112.37 million tonnes in the country as per government data, the space available for vegetables is less than 15 per cent, mainly in the private sector. This means in any month, say August, a shortage can be perpetuated if the supply chain takes a knock. And all this has happened when a McKinsey study shows India is the second largest producer of vegetables in the world, accounting for about 15 per cent of the total global production. C B Holkar, honorary director at Nafed and an onion trader from Nashik, the centre of Indian trade in the crop, said prices also flared as the Eid holidays created a gap in trading days last week. Coupled with the rains and the upcoming long weekend, he said there was enough space for traders to create an arbitrage opportunity. This was happening despite sufficient a carry-over stock from the summer crop. Holkar said fresh Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh onions would enter the markets only in early September. An agriculture ministry official said traders had also found in the present gap a welcome chance to make up for their losses in the export market. He said Indian onions had been effectively 26

priced out of the overseas market as the rival Pakistan and Chinese crops were selling at Rs 18 to Rs 20 a kilogram. Indian onion was being offered at about Rs 50 a kilo, so it had hardly sold abroad this year. Government data shows India has exported 5,12,000 tonnes of onion in the first quarter of this fiscal, mostly dried, which is about 1.5 per cent less than in the same period last year. In July this year, Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar ruled out banning export of onion saying it interfered with the image of a reliable supplier of the crop that India has been trying to develop.

Weather

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Country in the grip of onion fever

As if paying Rs. 60 for every kilogram of onion wasn’t enough, Maharashtra agriculture minister Radakrishna Vikhe Patil on Tuesday said farmers were justified in holding on to onion stocks. “We have to note that the farmers have suffered immensely and the production has gone down by 25%. Things should improve in the next 25 days. But what is wrong if they are holding on to their stocks? They want a good price,” he said. He denied reports of agents hoarding the vegetable to create an artificial crisis and added that the government was not planning any intervention at this stage to control prices. Kolkata Onions on Tuesday were selling at R60-70 per kg. Vegetable vendors reported that the prices had risen by over 60 per cent in the past two months. Patna Rising prices of vegetables too is taking a toll on household budgets. While onion is selling at Rs. 45-50 per kg, tomato is not too far behind at Rs. 40 per kg. “It is getting increasingly difficult to manage the household budget. Mercifully, the holy month of sawan is on, so one can manage as people don’t eat non-vegetarian food. But if this trend continues, people will have to learn to cook without onions,” said Renuka Sinha, a housewife. Jaipur The prices of onion here have gone through the roof, with the vegetable being sold between Rs. 70-90 per kg in the retail market. The wholesale rate in the city is Rs. 50-60 per kg. Radheyshyam Fatak, president of Rajasthan Wholesalers Federation, said the prices were likely to come down by September-October when the new stock arrives from Alwar and from Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Chandigarh With fresh onion produce still a month away and old stock getting exhausted fast, the price of onion crossed Rs. 60 here. According to traders, the price is likely to cross R70 in the next two days.

Wholesale prices drop by Rs. 10, no change in retail yet

Onion prices, which had risen to Rs55-62 per kg in the wholesale market, dropped by around Rs10 on Tuesday. However, there was no respite for the common man as the retailers continued to sell for them for Rs70-80 per kg in Mumbai and neighbouring cities. 28

Sanjoy Ghogre, who shops at Fort market, said the rates were between Rs60 and Rs70 per kg, depending on the quality of the onions. Varsh Jatap, a housewife, said that the price of onion had soared from Rs47 per kg to Rs60 at Kalachowki retail market from Rs47 per kg a day ago. Supplies of onions continued to be low at the wholesale Agriculture Produce Market Committee ( APMC) onion market but the price did drop marginally. “There are few takers for the produce at the high price on Monday. The retailers have not been buying in adequate quantity. Hence the rates came down to Rs. 45-55 today,” said Ashok Karpe, an onion wholesaler “We are expecting the prices to fluctuate in this manner in the coming days. No one knows what turn the market will take as the stocks continue to reduce and the new stock will come only after 2 months,” he added. Though prices came down by 11% to 18% in the wholesale market, the retailers did not pass on the benefit to the customers. They continued to sell at the hiked rate of Monday and even increased it in some cases.

Mother Dairy bets big on a frozen veggie menu, to launch frozen onion rings, English carrots

Increased price volatility of fresh vegetables and demand for premium, pre-cut vegetables even after the season ends is boosting demand, helping the organised retail market grow 15-20% a year, industry executives say. 29

NEW DELHI: As zooming prices of onion make consumers cry, Mother Dairy is eyeing the market for frozen onion rings, spinach as well as guava and mango as it seeks to consolidate its leadership in the organised retail market for frozen vegetables. Increased price volatility of fresh vegetables and demand for premium, pre-cut vegetables even after the season ends is boosting demand, helping the organised retail market grow 15-20% a year, industry executives say.

"We are looking to come up with frozen onion rings and even frozen spinach blocks for the food service segment and consumers. It will be a win-win situation for consumers to get a product at one price all year round," said Pradipta Kumar Sahoo, business head for horticulture at Mother Dairy Fruit & Vegetable. He added that frozen mango and guava were the other products that were in pipeline. Starting August 15, the company would launch a new range of frozen vegetables such as english carrots, cauliflower florets and french beans under the Safal brand.

Currently, it is selling over 6,000 tonnes of frozen peas, sweet corn and mixed vegetables annually. "It has taken us 18 years to reach this level, but I am confident that we will grow at a much faster pace as consumers look for convenience in getting precut vegetables and all year round availability," he said. Safal brand has a market share of over 25-30% in the frozen vegetable category in the country. All major retailers including Reliance, Big Bazaar, Easy Day and More sell peas or corn in their own private labels. The industry pegs annual sales of frozen peas alone at over 50,000 tonnes. Regional players like Pagro Foods in the north Indian market and ice-cream major Vadilal Industries in the west have strong market presence in their respective territories and are gearing up for countrywide operations. Apart from convenience and natural taste, frozen vegetables also provide value for money. In the case of frozen cauliflower florets, consumers would have to pay only for florets with 100% yield, which is ready to cook. "The prices of these frozen vegetables are free from market volatility and inflation," Sahoo said. The company would make use of the entire 4,000 tonne capacity at its plant in Mangolpuri in New Delhi by using different seasonal windows. As per Sahoo, he was looking to sell over 500 tonnes of new products in the first year. The fruit and vegetable business (retail, frozen and food pulp and concentrate) of Mother Dairy accounted for Rs 540 crore or 10% of the group turnover. Apart from its 425 retail stores across the Delhi NCR region and Bangalore, Safal will sell its frozen vegetables, in 200 gm and 500 gm packs, in all modern retail formats and 15,000 outlets in India. The company is in the process of adding 15 more stores in 30

Bangalore to make it 40 there by year-end and over 30 more stores in the Delhi NCR region. With a wide network of 110 farmer's associations and collection centres, Safal doesn't see a major challenge in procurement of vegetables. It would be using IQF technique and ensure that the frozen vegetables are natural and contain no preservatives or additives, said Sahoo.

Vegetable prices too soar after onion

JAIPUR: After onion, vegetable prices are all set to bring tears to consumers. Sporadic rain that hit the standing crops and low production in the state seem to be major factors for sharp rise in the veggie prices.Bitter Gourd (Karela) which last year sold at Rs 8 per kg in wholesale this year reached Rs 35-40 per kg. Similarly, bitter gourd during July and August used to sell at Rs 5-8 per kg has rallying at Rs 25 per kg in wholesale.Green and leafy vegetables witnessed the biggest rise in their prices. Spinach on Tuesday sold at Rs 25 per kg while Fenugreek leaves (Methi) was traded at Rs 30-35 per kg at Muhana Mandi. Their prices a week ago were Rs 5 per kg. Other vegetables like Capsicum with Rs 80 per kg in wholesale and Rs 120 per kg in retail too have become dearer. Hawkers who were charging Rs 30-35 per kg for ladiesfingers are now selling it at Rs 50 per kg.Traders and experts cite the weather conditions for a low output as only half picture. They believe that a sudden fall in the vegetables is due to the increase in property prices. "Today most of the farmers have left sowing vegetables. Prices of their lands have seen an exponential rise. Either they are selling it to property dealers or reduced the total areas under cultivation," said Radheyshyam Phatak, president of Rajasthan Fruits and Vegetable Traders Association.At present nearly 60% of the vegetables in the state arrive from outside Rajasthan. The dependency on other states will always keep vegetable prices volatile, said Ram Babu Gupta, a vegetable vendor at Muhana Mandi. "It is only Chomu from where vegetable comes significantly in Jaipur. Otherwise, earlier places like Amber, Ram Nagariya were great suppliers. Today there is hardly any production from there," said Gupta.

This has been added with the surging demand form neighboring states. Five trucks of onion which were booked for Rajasthan have now been dispatched to Gujarat. "Farmers will send 31

their produce to that mandi from where they can fetch better price. Rajasthan is losing because Gujarat and Haryana traders are ready to buy out in high prices," added Ashok Sharma, purchase executive for an organized retail chain.

Onion may touch Rs 100/kg by Puja

KOLKATA: Onions are making Kolkatans cry - and not just on the chopping board. The price of this kitchen staple is shooting up almost every day and don't be surprised if you end up paying Rs100 for a kilo during Puja. Even on last Friday, onion was selling for Rs 40 in most markets. On Monday, it was retailing at Rs 60 and the next day, it touched Rs 70 a kilo. Vendors fear that the price will rise higher in the coming days. A vegetable seller was heard shouting 'buy apples at the price of onions' at Garia Bazaar on Tuesday. "Last year, the price of onion around this time was Rs 30 per kg. This year, it was selling at Rs 40 till last week but it suddenly shot up. We have been told that there is a supply crunch, fuelling the hike," said Biswajit Saha, a vendor at Bowbazar market. Running the kitchen has become a nightmare for homemakers. Many are cutting down on onion wherever possible while others are trying to substitute it with other ingredients. "I got a shock in the market yesterday. With the price of onion almost double that of last week it has become difficult to plan a meal. I am trying to substitute onion with tomato and curd, but the taste is different. What can one do?" said Bindu Hathiramani of Bhowanipore.

Onion supply to the state mostly comes from Nasik. According to wholesalers there was a bad harvest this year triggering the shortage. While wholesalers supplied it to retailers at Rs 40 per kg last week, they are asking for Rs 55 now. "We expect a new variety of onion to arrive in the state from Andhra Pradesh by next week. Only then can we hope for a drop in prices," said wholesaler Rabindanath Koley. It is not only onion that is worrying households. Prices other vegetables too have shot up over the past few weeks by 20% to 40%. Ginger, garlic, brinjal, lady's finger, pointed gourd (potol) seem to be getting more expensive every day.

"Vegetable prices have gone up so high that homemakers like me have to double the kitchen budget or cut down on dishes. While we would have three to four curries and bhajas every day, now I am managing the kitchen by restricting it to two," said Meenakshi Soni, a homemaker from Bhowanipore. On the streets, food vendors are making do without onions. 32

Vegetable vendors blame the rain for spoiling the crop which in turn increases the price. They also said that so long as middlemen are there, prices cannot be controlled. "Why is the government not monitoring the middlemen in vegetable markets? We are mere puppets in their hands and the direct impact is on the consumers," said a vegetable vendor at Manicktala market.

Vendors apprehend vegetable prices will remain high till the Pujas. "I feel bad for my children as I cannot give them their favourite dishes. As vegetarians, we cannot supplement those with non- vegetarian dishes. Running the kitchen has become a huge headache," said Savita Benani, a homemaker.

The only solace is that tomato prices have stabilized and potatoes are cheaper. About one and half years ago, the government had set up a task force to keep tabs on vegetable prices. Many wonder what the task force has done so far.

After onions, veggie prices soar

PUNE: It's not just the price of onion that is burning a hole in people's pockets, but also rates of vegetables such as tomatoes, cauliflower, beans, ladyfinger and cabbage that have touched new highs, their rates ranging between Rs 40 and Rs80 per kg in the retail markets. Monthly budgets have gone for a toss and people say they have no choice but to tweak and prune their vegetable shopping list.Suvarna Diwanji, a Kothrud resident, said her expenditure on vegetables has increased three-fold. "What I could buy in Rs 200 earlier now costs more than Rs 500. It's not one particular vegetable, but everything in the market is expensive, so it's a tough choice between what one can leave out. But I have not bought onions this week as they were way too expensive," she said, explaining it's not about not being able to afford the new rates, but managing within the monthly budget.While Diwanji does make a trip to the Mahatma Phule market occasionally, she feels the cost of commuting takes away whatever little she manages to save on the vegetables. "There is a cost for everything, so it makes no sense to travel all the way. It's better to adjust and economise your expenses on a day to day basis," she says.

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For Archana Kashyap, the sky-high prices have meant compromising on the taste of dishes for her family of six. "We have always used onions and tomatoes in all our preparations. But now I am avoiding using these two vegetables as they are too expensive. My monthly budget has toppled in just two weeks with no vegetable available for less than Rs 60 for a kg," she says.

Interestingly, the prices of vegetable at city's big and small retail vendors are nearly double of their wholesale prices at Market Yard. While shopkeepers blame shortage of supply and large- scale wastage due to spoilage, wholesale traders express surprise at their range of margins.

While admitting that the difference between wholesale and retail rates is very high, Noor Bagwan, a vegetable retailer in Deccan, said the margin helps retailers absorb the heavy losses they suffer on account of spoilage and wastage. "During monsoon, nearly 30% of our purchase from the wholesale market gets spoilt. We are thusnot able to sell the entire purchase, resulting in losses, which we have to make up for besides keeping some margin for shop rent, worker salaries etc," he said. Bagwan said the maximum margin is kept for quick-to-perish vegetables such as cucumber and tomatoes though prices are increased for all vegetables to tide over losses and expenditures. Ritesh Poman, a wholesale trader of onions said retail prices also increase when vendors intentionally withhold stocks to inflate profits. "For the last two days, sufficient number of trucks of onions has been reaching Gultekdi. I am surprised why retail prices continue to be so high," he said, when asked about the huge difference between wholesale and retail prices. Vilas Bhujbal, former chairman of the Agriculture Produce Market Committee, however takes a more balanced view. "Retailers are not unjustified as they have to consider several other costs and also account for spoilage and wastage," he said. Bhujbal, however, ruled out any correction in prices in the near future. "Almost 30-40% of the crop has been spoilt this year, so rates will continue to remain high till October at least," he said.

Bhujbal also puts down the idea of government regulation to check spiralling prices as according to him, price control is difficult in perishable goods. 34

FARMERS TOLD TO REGISTER NAME FOR SALE OF PADDY AT SUPPORT PRICE

As per the directives of the Chhattisgarh Government, the service cooperative societies will procure paddy at support price during the year 2013-14, but only registered farmers can sell paddy to the society. According to an official press statement issued here on Tuesday, total 80,009 metric tonne paddy had been procured from 10,758 registered farmers in 2011-12 and 21,881 registered farmers in 2012-13. In 2013-14 also paddy would be procured from registered farmers only. Along with the information given by registered farmers in the year 2012-13, detailed information about the quantity of paddy sold by them will be displayed at all the 27 service cooperative societies from August 16, 2013. The farmer concerned can have a look at it and if the information displayed is true they can confirm it for the year 2013-14 also by putting their signature on the displayed list. If the farmer wanted change in the displayed list, amended application for registration or renewal can be submitted to the society in format 2, mandatorily by August 31, 2013. Registered farmers, who have not sold paddy in 2012-13, should have to submit their application in format 2 for selling paddy in 2013-14. Farmers, who have not registered their name in 2012-13 and wanted to register their name for selling paddy in 2013-14, they have to submit application will all information to the societies in format 3. After scrutiny of the information, the society management will provide registration certificate with registration code to the farmer in format four. 35

Gujarat govt to organise mega-farmers summit to discuss common problems

Meet to be part of first ever Global Agriculture Summit being billed as interactive platform for nearly 5,000 farmers

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's national ambitions could get another fillip as the state is all set to organise the first ever Global Agriculture Summit which is being billed as an interactive platform for around 5,000 farmers from across the country of which more than 3,000 are from outside the state.

The two-day summit which will begin from September 9 is expected to discuss a range of issues and share success stories between farmers from across the country.

Teams of senior officers from the Gujarat government visited as many as 18 states to encourage farmers and government to participate in the summit. "Almost all of them barring Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal have not yet confirmed their participation while other have done," said Gujarat, principle secretary for agriculture and cooperation Raj Kumar.

He said the summit main theme will be bring India's agriculture growth at par with growth in other sector. In the 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th five-year plan India average agriculture growth has been 4.8 per cent, 2.5 per cent, 2.4 per cent and 3.5 per cent, while the overall GDP growth has been much more than that.

"There is definitely something wrong in our agricultural policies which this summit will try to find some answer," Kumar said. He said that in Gujarat the average agriculture growth in the last one decade has been around 11 per cent, much more than the national average.

"The farmers of Gujarat will share their experiences with farmers from other countries and vice- versa," Kumar said. He said the summit should not be seen in narrow prism of one-upmanship, 36

but as a platform where all the farmers from different states will discuss and deliberate their problems and come to their own solution.

"Instead of framing policies we believe this is the best way to find solution to the myriad problems facing the country's farming community," Kumar said. He said at the end of the two- day summit a farmers panchayat will be held which will deliberate on various issues. Representatives from 200 companies of which 30 foreign companies will also participate in the summit. "Coming to South Asian region, the agriculture sector is confronted with various problems. The need of the hour is increased investment, policy reforms, innovations in agro-ecology to keep with challenging times," he said at an event organised by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) here.

South Asia needs to step up investment in agriculture: Thomas

He said that climate change and depleting natural resources are affecting food security across the globe

Stating that climate change and depleting natural resources are affecting food security across the globe, Food Minister K V Thomas today said there was a need to step up investment in the farm sector in South Asia. India has a challenge to feed estimated 1.3 billion population by 2018, he said, adding the government is focusing on tapping the agriculture potential in eastern region. South Asian countries -- Afghanistan, Bangaladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka - - account for 34% of Asia's population. Stating that regional cooperation can bring in buoyancy in agriculture production, he suggested that the below sea-level farming practiced in Kuttanad in Kerala would interest countries like Malaysia, Bangladesh and Maldives. Being the most populous region, South Asia naturally has a high stake in global efforts in confronting global hunger and malnutrition, he added. On India's food security initiatives, Thomas said the government has moved the National Food Security Bill in Parliament to replace the ordinance. 37

The bill seeks to provide legal right on adequate quantity of subsidised foodgrains to 67% of the population. It also aims to provide food and nutritional security, he added.

Mentha oil up 0.7% on industrial demand

Speculators created fresh positions, driven by increased industrial demand in the spot market

Mentha oil prices rose by 0.74% to Rs 826.90 per kg in futures trade today today as speculators created positions, driven by increased industrial demand in the spot market against tight supplies. At the Multi Commodity Exchange, mentha oil for delivery in August month rose by Rs 6.10, or 0.74%, to Rs 826.90 per kg in business turnover of 515 lots. Similarly, the oil for delivery in September contract traded higher by Rs 5.60, or 0.67%, to Rs 841.10 per kg in 99 lots. Market analysts said speculators created fresh positions, driven by increased industrial demand in the spot market against lower arrivals from Chandausi in Uttar Pradesh mainly pushed up mentha oil prices at futures trade

Potato falls by 1.5% on increased supply

Offloading of positions by speculators due to subdued demand in spot market affected the prices

Potato prices fell by 1.49% to Rs 775.60 per quintal in futures market today as speculators offloaded their positions due to sluggish demand in the spot market against increased supply from producing belts. At the Multi Commodity Exchange, potato for delivery in September month fell by Rs 11.70, or 1.49% to Rs 775.60 per quintal in business turnover of 137 lots. The potato for delivery in August contract also traded lower by Rs 8.90, or 1.13% to Rs 780 per quintal in 4 lots. Market analysts said offloading of positions by speculators due to subdued demand in spot market against higher supply from producing regions mainly kept pressure on potato prices at futures trade.

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Cardamom falls by 4% on profit-booking

Profit-booking by speculators at prevailing higher levels affected cardamom prices

Cardamom prices plunged by 3.99% to Rs 776.50 per kg in futures trade today as speculators booked profits at prevailing higher levels amid sluggish demand in the spot market. At the Multi Commodity Exchange, cardamom for delivery in September month plunged by Rs 32.30, or 3.99% to Rs 776.50 per kg in business turnover of 331 lots. In a similar fashion, the spice for delivery in October contracts fell by Rs 33.10, or 3.98% to Rs 799.50 per kg in 351 lots. However, spice for delivery in August contract traded higher by Rs 8.20, or 0.96% to Rs 860 per kg in 33 lots. Market analysts said besides profit-booking by speculators at prevailing higher levels, sluggish demand in the spot market mainly kept pressure on cardamom prices at futures trade

Cashew market may turn buoyant on supply woes

The domestic cashew market witnessed sporadic activities in recent days while the availability of large wholes is tight and at the same time demand for good quality broken is good, according to trade sources. 39

Prices have been steady with some upward movement for some origins and grades. There is a wide range of prices with the difference of 10 to 12 per cent between the highest and lowest traded price for the same grade on the same day. “This shows that people are willing to pay the value for the right product,”Pankaj N. Sampat, a Mumbai- based dealer told Business Line. “There has been a fair amount of activity in the kernel market during June/July without any change in the price range,” he said. Range of cashew prices an lb were: W240 $3.75-3.90, W320$3.20-3.40, W450 $2.95-3.10, SW320 $3-3.10, splits $2.25-2.30 and pieces $1.50-1.55. In the last couple of weeks, some processors have sold W320 at lower end of the range for nearbys but prices for other grades, and W320 for forward positions have been very steady. Active RCN market Raw Cashew Nut (RCN) market has been reasonably active. Vietnam processors have been buying regularly. Availability is adequate but it is mainly low yielding product. Availability of good quality RCN is limited and prices for that have moved up a bit in the last two weeks. Current price range is from $700- 1,000 a tonne (c&f) depending on origin, quality, destination, terms. On the supply side, there are some indications that 2013 crop in Brazil should be close to normal and in any case, better than the disaster of 2012. The trader feels that “downside on RCN prices is limited because there is not much available for India and Vietnam till the 2014 crops. East Africa and Indonesia are less than 15 per cent of the global production. Any further decline in prices could adversely affect collections in 2014,” he said.“Aug-Oct will tell us whether prices will break the $3.50/lb barrier in 2013 or remain in the current range”. If Asian, especially Indian, demand picks up in the next 4-6 weeks, it would keep many Indian processors away from the international market. That might mean some increase in kernel prices when the US and EU come in to buy for last quarter 2013 and first quarter 2014 shipments. But if the Indian demand continues to be sporadic, the trade said, “we will see the prices moving sideways in the current range. A decline is possible only if Indian demand is soft which is unlikely considering that all other nut prices are substantially higher, at least in India, than 2012,” they said. 40

Competition panel may probe surge in onion prices again

Rising onion prices may force the Competition Commission of India to re-examine if cartelisation exits in the trade of the bulb. Two years ago, the fair trade regulator had smelt a scam in the rising prices of onion and probed the matter. However, it could find any hard evidence against the traders and the case was dropped. Even earlier, prima facie there existed a case and the CCI had taken suo motto action and carried out a probe taking data from the mandis. It was clear that there was hoarding that impacted the price, sources said adding that it may relook the issue. Onion prices are ruling over Rs 55 a kg in retail markets. Prices have surged four-fold this year. The rise in prices is despite increased arrivals at major markets in Bangalore, Kolkata, Pune, Pimpalgaon and Lasalgaon. In 2011 December, the CCI had mandated Bangalore-based Institute for Social and Economic Change to conduct a study on onion. The institute looked at competitiveness in major onion markets of Maharashtra and Karnataka and submitted its report to the fair trade regulator In its finding in a report, the institute had said that traders, along with intermediaries, were playing a role in price hike. The report had said that to avoid collusion between traders, involvement of Agriculture Produce Market Committee officials in the auctioning process should be mandatory. It also sought the involvement of co-operative marketing societies to prevent collusion amongst traders. 41

Tea Board cancels licences of 157 exporters

The Tea Board has cancelled the licences of 157 exporters, mostly merchant-exporters, for their failure to comply with statutory rules and regulations. Also, show-cause notices have been served on another 243 of them on the same ground. Anyone planning to export tea must necessarily obtain a licence from Tea Board. A tea exporter is first issued a temporary licence for three years. Depending on the export performance it is renewed every three years. However, the renewal becomes redundant if the exporter concerned can prove that he has exported one lakh kg or more of tea every year for three successive years. Once this stipulation is fulfilled, the exporter will be issued a permanent licence which does not require renewal. However, any exporter exporting less than one lakh kg a year will have to have his licence renewed every three years. The complaint against those whose licences have been cancelled is that they refrain from submitting to the Tea Board the mandatory returns giving out the export details. The apprehension is that they just sit on the licences without caring to export. Tea exporters are entitled to some incentives under relevant scheme of Tea Board. It might be noted that an advisory body, Tea Council of India, comprising representatives of exporters, both merchant and producer, brokers and Tea Board has been constituted to monitor the quality of exportable tea. The body started functioning from June this year. Meanwhile, Tea Board has cancelled manufacturing licences of 120 tea manufacturing units, all in South India, for not non-submission of returns to the board, according to Board sources.

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Paddy sowing in Bengal set to gather pace in 2 weeks

Inadequate rainfall notwithstanding, the West Bengal Government does not expect any decline in area under paddy cultivation this season. Last year, paddy was sown on 42 lakh hectares during the kharif season. According to State Agriculture Minister Moloy Ghatak, sowing has been delayed by nearly a month this year due to deficient rains. However, considering the recent showers, he expects sowing to gather momentum in the next two weeks. Deficient rainfall “Sowing for this season will continue for another seven to 10 days. With rain lashing growing areas in the last two weeks, we expect sowing to reach last year’s level,” Ghatak told Business Line. Reports from Regional Met Centre (RMC), Kolkata, said that the four south Bengal districts – Birbhum, Burdwan, Nadia, Hooghly – saw an average 28 per cent deficit in rainfall between June 1 and August 7. These four districts account for 27 per cent rice acreage and nearly a third (32 per cent) of the total rice production in the State. West Bengal had produced around 14.6 million tonnes (mt) to rice across the three seasons of Aus, Aman and Boro. According to G.C. Debnath, Director, RMC, the only time the four districts reported an increase in rainfall was in the last week of July this year. Murshidabad and Malda – two other rice producing districts – witnessed a 51 and 26 per cent less rainfall, respectively. Govt measures In the early part of the season (June and July) – when transplantation of saplings take place – the State Government, according to Ghatak, had taken measures such as alternative water resources and usage of submersible pumps to help increase the acreage. For example, in the eastern part of Burdwan, Bengal’s rice bowl, major portions of sowing area in the district were fed by release of water from DVC. Following the late monsoon and signs of better sowing, the State might not go ahead with its plan for sowing of alternative crops such as hybrid maize, sesame, black gram (urad), etc, the minister added.

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Research firm Kaybase launches agri-biz arm

Kaybase, a research-based-consulting firm, has launched a special division focusing exclusively on the agri-business segment. The agribusiness industry, which includes agri-inputs (seeds, agrochemicals, fertilisers), biotech and food processing, is witnessing enormous growth in the recent past. This division aims to serve the complex and critical research needs of the companies in this domain with Kaybase's market research experience combined with specialist domain knowledge, says a press release. Kaybase works for clients across several verticals, including TVS Motors, Mphasis, Lucas TVS, EID Parry, Dalmia Cements and others. The company today offers a wide range of services, including customer satisfaction, advertising research, and internal customer engagement.

Chana gains on millers’ buying

Despite weak futures, increased demand from millers and slack arrival perked up chana in Indore mandis on Tuesday with chana (kanta) rising to Rs 3,050-3,100 a quintal (Rs 2,975- 3,000), while chana (desi) ruled at Rs 2,700-2,800 , chana (mausmi) at Rs 3,000-3,300, chana (vishal) at Rs 2,700-2,800, while Kabuli Bitki ruled at Rs 2,700-2,900. On account of heavy rains, demand for chana and other pulse seeds had drastically declined. However, with weather becoming clear over the past one week, demand has increased leading to sharp rise in prices, said Prakash Vora, a trader, adding that chana in the coming days may see a gain up to Rs 200 a quintal. Chana dal (average) was at Rs 3,550-75, chana dal (medium) at Rs 3,650-75, chana dal (bold) is ruling at Rs 3,950-75. Dollar chana (chickpea) ruled at Rs 3,400-4,600 on subdued demand and buying support. Arrival was recorded at 14,000-15,000 bags. Dollar chana (42/44 count) in container ruled at Rs 5,250-75 , 44/46 count at Rs 5,050-75 , 46/48 count at Rs 4,850-75, while dollar chana (58/60 count) ruled at Rs 3,525-50 and 60/62 count ruled at Rs 3,400-Rs 3,425 a quintal respectively.

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Festival demand heats up groundnut oil

Cotton oil and groundnut oil moved up on the back of festival demand. However, groundnut oil traded flat in retail . Groundnut oil loose gained Rs 5 to Rs 955-960 for 10 kg while telia tin was gained Rs 8 to Rs 1,475-76 for 15 kg. Groundnut oil new tin was at Rs 1,700-05. Similarly, cotton oil wash was improved by Rs 10 to Rs 617-620 for 10 kg and cotton oil new tin for 15 kg was moved up by Rs 10 to Rs 1,090-1,100. According to traders, demand in cotton oil was higher than groundnut oil. Moreover, higher availability of nuts for crushing also capped the gains in groundnut oil.

Coconut, copra prices seen rising next month

Coconut, which is quoting at Rs 6-7 a nut at the farm gate, is expected to increase by Re 1-Rs 2 beginning September. Similarly, copra, which is ruling at around Rs 47 a kg now is expected to touch Rs 50 in a month’s time, marking the beginning of the festival season, say trade sources. The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, however, clarified that this would be applicable for nuts in the Pollachi market and copra in Avalpoondurai markets. Advising farmers to take decision on selling accordingly, the Domestic and Export Market Intelligence Cell functioning at the farm varsity said that the econometric analysis of coconut and copra revealed that prices would go up during Dasara and Deepavali and thereafter. Trade sources, meanwhile, said that the production this season was lower by 30 per cent. Yet, prices had not moved up as there was low corporate demand for the coconut oil, fall in consumption due to import of cheaper edible oils. The Government’s estimates for 2012-13 show that coconut was grown on 2.13 million hectares with a production of 15.35 million tonnes of nuts. Tamil Nadu is next only to Kerala in production accounting for 31.02 per cent of the total production. Close to 70 per cent of the nuts are used for oil extraction.

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Buyers' resistance saps rubber

Domestic rubber prices turned weak on Tuesday. Subsiding rains and the absence of genuine buyers at higher levels kept the commodity under pressure during the session. Sheet rubber declined to Rs 195 both at Kottayam and Kochi from Rs 196 and Rs 195.50 respectively. August futures declined to Rs 191.55 (Rs 194.99), September to Rs 184.85 (Rs 186.36), October to Rs 175.70 (Rs 177.05on the National Multi Commodity Exchange. RSS 3 (spot) improved to Rs 157.26 (Rs 155.58) at Bangkok. August futures closed at ¥264 (Rs 164.71) on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange. Spot rubber rates (Rs/kg) : RSS-4: 195 (196); RSS-5: 191 (192); Ungraded: 181 (182); ISNR 20: 176 (177) and Latex 60 per cent: 164.50 (165).

Ashwagandha gets US patent for vaccine adjuvant

Ashwagandha, a shrub which is being used in ayurveda, is now considered an adjuvant to improve vaccine efficacy. A group of researchers from Pune University and Serum Institute have received a patent on the use of Ashwagandha as a vaccine adjuvant, or component that helps improve its efficacy. A medicinal herb, Ashwagandha is also referred to as Indian Gensing. 46

In a project supported by the Department of Science and Technology, the research was part of a project to develop “botanical immunomodulators” as adjuvants to improve vaccine efficacy, said a researcher from Serum. In the past, the industry used aluminium salts as an adjuvant, but as newer vaccines are developed, industry is also looking for alternatives, he added. In fact, the finding would be used in new vaccines such as the pentavalent vaccine targeting meningitis, or those against dengue and pneumococcal diseases, said Serum Executive Director Suresh Jadhav. About nine herbs were studied, before research found the required property in ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and more work was done to understand in what ratio it could be used in a vaccine, a researcher said. Unlike earlier instances where companies tried to patent turmeric, for example, the researcher clarified, the patent here was in an area not claimed by ayurveda. Vaccine applications Further, he said, that all known claims on herbs have been digitised and a patent would not have been granted in the US, if the latest claim was similar to existing knowledge in India or China. The adjuvant showed properties where it could be used with other licensed adjuvants in T-cell dependent antigens such as diphtheria, tetanus and pertusssis group of vaccines. The project was supported by DST and Serum Institute of India with total financial outlay of Rs 90 lakh spread over 3 years. The research project was completed in 2007, but development work continued at Serum Institute. Patents were filed in India and in the US. The researchers receive their patent in India in 2007, but the US patent was granted on August 6.

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Imported edible oils surge on US soya report

Imported oils such as palmolein and refined soyabean oil surged by Rs 10 and Rs 9, respectively, for 10 kg on Tuesday, tracking bullish global trend. The US Department of Agriculture’s report that soyabean production would be lower than initial estimates due to rain in May and June affecting the US crop lifted the oils and oilseeds compled. Cotton and rapeseed oils gained by Rs 5 and Rs 2 each. Groundnut and sunflower oils rule unchanged. The sentiment was firm on cues from firm overseas market and higher demand ahead of festivals, said sources. During the day, Ruchi sold 140-150 tonnes palmolein at Rs 555 and 150-200 tonnes soyabean refined oil at Rs 645 and 80-100 tonnes sunflower refined oil at Rs 800. Resellers offloaded 200-250 tonnes palmolein at Rs 548-552 for ready delivery. At the end of the day, Liberty quoted palmolein at Rs 555, super palmolein Rs 582 and super deluxe Rs 602, soyabean refined oil Rs 650 and sunflower refined oil Rs 810. Ruchi quoted palmolein Rs 555, Soyabean refined oil Rs 645 and sunflower refined oil Rs 800. Allana quoted palmolein Rs 555, super palmolein Rs 582, soyabean refined oil Rs 650 and sunflower refined oil Rs 805. Gokul quoted palmolein at Rs 550. In Rajkot, groundnut oil declined by Rs 5 to Rs 1,515 (Rs 1,520) for telia tin and loose (10 kg) Rs 975 (Rs 975). Soyabean arrivals were around 58,000 bags and its prices were Rs 3,450-3,500 ex-mandi and Rs 3,550-3,575 for plant delivery. Mustard seeds arrivals dropped to 40,000 bags and the prices were Rs 3,270-3,600. On the National Commodities and Derivatives Exchange, soyabean refined oil September futures were higher by Rs 8.35 to Rs 662.70 (Rs 654.35), October up by Rs 6.20 to Rs 631.35 (Rs 625.15) and November increased by Rs 4.50 to Rs 624.80 (Rs 620.30). Malaysia BMD crude palm oil September futures settled higher at MYR 2,326 (MYR 2,276), October at MYR 2,297 (MYR 2,242) and November at MYR 2,291 (MYR 2,236). 48

The Bombay Commodity Exchange spot rates (Rs/10 kg) were: Groundnut oil 990 (990), soya refined oil 645 (636), sunflower exp. ref. 720 (720), sunflower ref. 800 (800), rapeseed ref. oil 697 (695), rapeseed expeller ref. 667 (665) cottonseed ref. oil 650 (645) and palmolein 550 (540). Vikram Global Commodities (P) Ltd has quoted Rs 590 for 10 kg, ex-stock for Malaysia super palmolein and Rs 595 for forward delivery.

Sugar unlikely to spurt in near term

Sugar prices ruled unchanged on the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday on surplus supply and routine demand. Stockists kept away from taking risks, said sources. An analyst said that sugar prices are unlikely to see any spurt in the near future as mills are saddled with huge inventories They are under pressure to cut stocks ahead of the new season starting from October. . The Vashi wholesale market has continuously been carrying over 120 truckloads (each 100 bags of 100 kg each) of inventory stocks for quite sometime. Arrivals in Vashi market were 63-64 truckloads while local dispatches were 61-62. On Monday evening, 19-20 mills offered tenders and sold about 48,000-50,000 bags at Rs 2,910-3,000 (Rs 2,910-2,980) for S-grade and Rs 3,010-3,110 (Rs 3,000-3,110) for M-grade. On the National Commodities and Derivatives Exchange, September futures were up by Rs 6 to Rs 3,014 (Rs 3,008), October was higher by Rs 4 to Rs 3,030 (Rs 3,026) and November was lower by Rs 2 to Rs 3,005 (Rs 3,007) till noon. 49

The Bombay Sugar Merchants Association’s spot rates were: S-grade Rs 3,052-3,142 (Rs 3,052-3,142) and M-grade Rs 3,172-3,352 (Rs 3,172-3,352). Naka delivery rates: S-grade Rs 3,010-3,070 (Rs 3,010-3,070) and M-grade Rs 3,100-3,210 (Rs 3,100-3,210).

Spot turmeric drops with futures

Spot turmeric prices declined on higher arrivals and lack of demand in Erode markets. The spot market also took cues from the futures market, where prices dropped below Rs 4,500 a quintal. There is no upcountry demand and so traders and exporters quoted lower price. They bought turmeric only to stock them, as they expect fresh orders in the next few days. Traders are buying mainly quality turmeric, said R.K.V. Ravishankar, President, Erode Turmeric Merchants Association. He said that arrivals increased to 5,900 bags on Tuesday and 65 per cent was sold. Some exporters who have already obtained one or two orders from North India are now exporting them. Farmers said that they are badly in need of money and therefore, they are bringing huge stocks to sell them at prevailing prices. At the Erode Turmeric Merchants Association sales yard, the finger variety was sold at Rs 3,690-5,729, the root variety Rs 3,319-5,064. 50

Salem hybrid crop: The finger variety was sold at Rs 5,291-6,569, the root variety Rs 5,234- 5,690. Of the 1,401 bags that arrived, 706 were sold. At the Regulated Market Committee, the finger variety was sold at Rs 4,869-5,766, the root variety at Rs 4,693-5,606. Of 372 bags on offer, 338 found takers. At the Erode Cooperative Marketing society, the finger variety was sold at Rs 4,910-5,819, the root variety was sold at Rs 4,309-5,527. Of the 686 bags put up for sale, 630 were traded. At the Gobichettipalayam Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Society, the finger variety was sold at Rs 5,247-5,919, the root verity Rs 4,577-5,287. All the 77 bags were sold.

Dara wheat likely to rule range-bound

With some buying emerging on a small-scale, prices of dara wheat improved marginally, while flour and desi wheat continued to rule flat on moderate buying on Tuesday. 51

Some fresh buying pushed dara wheat prices upwards, said Radhey Shyam, a trade expert. Dara wheat is likely to rule range-bound for the next few days but within a positive territory, he said. Domestic demand is providing good support to the market, said Radhey Shyam. In the physical market, after ruling flat for almost two weeks, dara wheat improved marginally by Rs 10 to Rs 1,470-1,480 a quintal. Around 1,100 bags of wheat arrived and the stocks were directly offloaded at the mills. Mill delivery was at Rs 1,470-1,475 while delivery at the chakki was at Rs 1,480. On the other hand, desi wheat variety remained unchanged and went for Rs 2,600-2,650. Positive trend A positive trend was witnessed on the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange on buying interest. Wheat for August contracts improved by Rs 11 and traded at 1,595 with an open interest of 6,800 lots. The grain had made a low at Rs 1,590 earlier in the day. September contracts went up by Rs 4 and traded at Rs 1,591. In the spot market, wheat prices dropped by Rs 8.5 and traded at Rs 1,492.5. According to the market experts, a range-bound movement is likely to be witnessed in the wheat futures market in the coming days. Flour Prices Despite an uptrend in wheat, flour continued to rule flat and quoted at Rs 1,700. Similarly, Chokar ruled flat and sold at Rs 1,150.

Pepper may gain on smaller Indonesian crop

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Pepper moved up on buying interest on Tuesday with two active contracts closing higher. Arrivals were limited and they aided the market to surge. Meanwhile, reports of smaller crop in Indonesia and delay in re-opening of the market after the Ramadan holidays also influenced the market’s bullishness, market sources said. Besides, there is a feeling that because of 25-30 per cent drop in output, farmers may not liquidate much in Indonesia. On the spot, 22 tonnes pepper arrived, while 28 tonnes were traded at Rs 395. In the international markets, no activities were reported. Europeans are on summer holidays. Overseas buyers are said to be waiting for the arrival of Indonesian crop. August and October contracts on the NMCE increased by Rs 616 and Rs 300 respectively to Rs 42,200 and Rs 41,980 while September decreased by Rs 99 to Rs 42,106. Total turnover dropped by four tonnes to 28 tonnes. Total open interest fell by 14 tonnes to 53 tonnes. Spot prices continued to rally and they rose by Rs 200 to close at Rs 39,500 (ungarbled) and Rs 41,500 (garbled) on tight availability amid good demand. Indian parity in the international market was at $7,025 a tonne (c&f) Europe at $7,275 a tonne (c&f) US and remained out priced.

Coconut oil may top Rs 75 a kg

The corporate demand for edible grade copra has lifted the prices of coconut oil in Kerala and Tamil Nadu this week. 53

Prakash B. Rao, Vice-President, Cochin Oil Merchants Association, said that the market is going through a bullish trend because of the festival demand. Prices touched Rs 71 a kg in Kerala, while they were Rs 68 in Tamil Nadu, up Rs 2 in both the States. He said that there has been a good demand for edible copra, especially from North India, as well as from corporates. This has perked up coconut oil prices. Copra prices are now ruling at Rs 5,200 a quintal in Kerala and Rs 5,000 in Tamil Nadu, an increase of Rs 200 in both States. The terminal markets at Vadakara in Kerala and Kangeyam in Tamil Nadu have emerged as the preferred ones for copra procurement, he said. Rao expressed the hope that the price surge would continue for the next couple of weeks and would touch at Rs 75 for coconut oil and Rs 5,500 for copra. The substitute oils also fared better this week with palm oil quoting Rs 56 and palm kernel oil at Rs 58. Thalath Mahamood, former President of the association, attributed the price rise to bulk purchase of copra by corporates from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. There were reports that upcountry buyers are purchasing at Rs 52. The upward trend is expected to continue till the end of the festival season including Pooja and Diwali. Bharat N. Khona, former Board Member, COMA, said the short supply of copra into Kerala markets due to heavy rains last week has given a boost in the market with prices started perking up. This coupled with the local demand for Onam will cheer up the market in the coming days, he said. The Tamil Nadu loose market has shot up to Rs 1,020 for 15 kg against Rs 980 last week.