Top Rice News Today: Aromatic Rice, Prices & Onam Kits

Top rice news today covers Bengal’s push for aromatic rice cultivation, targeting 10,000 more hectares for varieties like Govindobhog and Badshabhog. Rising rice prices in Kerala due to supply shortages, affecting Ponni and Sona Masoori varieties. At the same time, Kerala prepares for Onam with free essential kits and special rice distribution for ration cardholders to support families during the festive season.

Government Seeks Opportunity To Farm Aromatic Rice, Eyes 10,000 More Hectares

The Bengal agriculture department has set a target to encourage farmers to cultivate aromatic rice varieties, such as Govindobhog, on an additional 10,000 hectares this year. Notably, the initiative has been taken to promote these rice varieties and help farmers improve their income. Currently, aromatic rice is cultivated on around 1.6 lakh hectares in the state, with total production at nearly 3.7 lakh metric tonnes. Agriculture Minister Dudhkumar Mondal said that Aromatic rice varieties, such as Govindobhog, are among the most profitable crops and can significantly improve the financial condition of our farmers, but several farmers prefer higher-yielding common rice varieties. Our target is to encourage the farmers to increase the cultivation of aromatic rice.

Sources from the Agriculture Department said that many aromatic rice varieties, including Govindobhog, Badshabhog, Radhatilak, Kanakchur and Tulaipanji, are cultivated in the state. Among all aromatic varieties, Govindobhog, Bengal's traditional short-grain aromatic rice, is the most widely cultivated in the state. Of the state's total aromatic rice production of 3.7 lakh metric tonnes, nearly 1.94 lakh metric tonnes comprise Govindobhog.

Rice Prices Hike In Kerala Amid Supply Shortage From Major Producing States

According to sources, rice prices have increased sharply in Kerala. Notably, the significant reasons behind the price rise are the reduced supply from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, as these states are the main sources of rice for Kerala, and the drop in production due to lower rainfall. Telangana Sona Masoori is being sold at Rs 63 per kg. However, the old price was Rs 45 per kg. The price of Ponni rice was Rs 57 per kg, whereas it is now being sold at Rs 63 per kg. The availability of rice in Kerala has also decreased due to increased exports to countries including Sri Lanka and Australia. Moreover, Prices of all varieties of rice have gone up. Government agencies suspect that there could be attempts to create an artificial shortage and increase prices.

In addition, speculative trading and excessive stockpiling are contributing to the shortage of rice in the market. Furthermore, the rise in transportation costs has influenced prices. It is quite noteworthy that trucks carrying rice now charge nearly Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 more compared to earlier. Large quantities of rice are being exported from Odisha to foreign countries. This is reportedly due to the Central government's decision to remove restrictions and duties on rice exports.

Kerala to Begin Onam Free Kit and Special Rice Distribution from August 10

The Kerala government has recently begun preparations for Onam celebrations with plans to distribute free essential kits and offer special rice supplies to eligible ration cardholders. The distribution of Onam kits is scheduled to begin from August 10. The initiative has been taken as part of the state’s festive support measures. Moreover, it aims to help vulnerable families in managing household expenses during the festival season. Along with free kits, the Civil Supplies Department will introduce special rice distribution through ration shops to ensure wider access to essential food items. On Monday, July 27 Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob said the government has also planned market interventions and Onam fairs to control price surges and make essential commodities available at affordable rates. The measures include subsidised supplies for non-priority cardholders and support for families preparing for the annual harvest festival. Onam, one of Kerala’s biggest cultural festivals, is marked by traditional feasts, celebrations and community gatherings. The government’s welfare measures are aimed at ensuring that families across the state can participate in the festivities with reduced financial pressure