Paddy Prices Surge in India: 1121 Sets Record, 1509 Crosses ₹4,800 per Quintal

Key Highlights

• 1121 Basmati paddy reportedly reaches a record price level.

• 1509 Basmati crosses ₹4,800 per quintal.

• Common paddy MSP is ₹2,441 per quintal for 2026-27.

• India's average paddy price reaches ₹2,791 per quintal during October 9–15.

• FAO's All-Rice Price Index rises 1.4% in September.

Paddy prices have strengthened across several Indian markets during the Kharif marketing season 2026-27, bringing fresh hope to farmers. According to media reports dated October 19, 2026, the 1121 Basmati paddy variety has reached a record price level, while the 1509 variety has crossed ₹4,800 per quintal. Paddy prices in several states are also trading above the Minimum Support Price (MSP), supported by domestic market demand and improving international rice prices.

Markets in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and other regions have recorded higher average prices than during the corresponding period last year. However, actual prices continue to vary according to the variety, grain quality, moisture content, local arrivals and buyer demand.

1121 Basmati Sets a Record as 1509 Crosses ₹4,800

Basmati paddy varieties are attracting attention as prices strengthen in major agricultural markets. According to media reports, the 1121 Basmati variety has reached a record level, while the price of 1509 Basmati paddy has moved above ₹4,800 per quintal.

Other varieties, including 1718 and 1401, are also being closely monitored by market participants. Their prices depend on the quality of the crop, demand from buyers, availability and prevailing market conditions.

The increase is encouraging for Basmati farmers, particularly those who produce varieties that attract strong demand from domestic and export buyers. However, the reported price of ₹4,800 or more for 1509 should not be treated as a uniform rate across all markets.

Farmers should check the latest mandi prices for their specific variety before selling their produce, as differences in grain quality and moisture content can affect the final price.

Paddy Prices Above MSP in Several States

The government has announced the following Minimum Support Prices for paddy for the Kharif marketing season 2026-27:

• Common paddy: ₹2,441 per quintal

• Grade-A paddy: ₹2,461 per quintal

Despite these support prices, market rates in several regions have moved considerably higher, according to the available data.

As of October 19, 2026, Agmarknet data showed the following average paddy prices:

These figures represent state-level averages and should not be considered fixed prices for every mandi or paddy variety. The significantly higher average recorded in Karnataka also highlights the importance of considering local market conditions when comparing prices across states.

For farmers, market rates above MSP can provide an opportunity to earn better returns. However, the price available to an individual farmer will depend on the quality and variety of the crop, local demand and the terms offered by buyers.

Paddy Prices Record Strong Year-on-Year Growth

A comparison with the same period last year also points to stronger paddy prices in several states.

According to the reported figures, average paddy prices increased by 42.6% in Uttar Pradesh to ₹2,781 per quintal. Rajasthan recorded a year-on-year increase of 45.4%, while Madhya Pradesh saw prices rise by 31.8% to ₹3,450 per quintal.

Across India, the average paddy price between October 9 and October 15, 2026, was reported at ₹2,791 per quintal. This was 19.2% higher than the average recorded during the corresponding period a year earlier.

The increases suggest that the paddy market has gained strength compared with last year's levels. However, price movements are not uniform across all varieties and regions, making it important for farmers to follow their local mandi rates rather than relying only on national averages.

Global Rice Prices Also Support the Market

International market conditions are another important factor influencing India's rice trade and domestic prices.

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) October 2026 update, its All-Rice Price Index increased by 1.4% in September compared with the previous month. Stronger Indica rice prices, weather-related concerns and a seasonal decline in availability contributed to the increase.

The FAO estimated global rice production at 552.5 million tonnes in 2026. Concerns about India's production outlook, particularly the effects of uneven monsoon rainfall, have also remained an important consideration for international rice markets.

However, global rice prices depend on several factors beyond production. Export competition, demand from importing countries, government policies and freight costs can all influence international trade.

India is one of the world's leading rice exporters, making domestic prices closely connected to export demand and international market trends. When overseas demand strengthens, exporters may compete more actively for supplies, potentially supporting prices in domestic markets.

On the other hand, higher domestic prices can increase procurement costs for exporters. Expensive transportation and weaker overseas demand can also affect the competitiveness of Indian rice. As a result, a rise in international prices does not necessarily translate into equal benefits for every farmer, rice variety or mandi.

What Should Farmers Consider Before Selling Paddy?

The recent rise in paddy prices is encouraging, but farmers should assess local market conditions before deciding when and where to sell their produce.

The following factors deserve attention:

• Check the latest mandi rates: Compare prices across nearby markets where transportation costs make the difference worthwhile.

• Consider crop quality: Grain quality, moisture content and variety can significantly influence the price offered by buyers.

• Compare Basmati varieties separately: The market rates for 1121, 1509, 1718 and 1401 may differ depending on quality and demand.

• Monitor arrivals and buyer demand: Increased arrivals during the harvesting season can affect prices, while strong demand may support them.

• Understand procurement conditions: Farmers should check the applicable MSP and government procurement arrangements in their region.

• Avoid relying on rumours: Price increases reported in one market do not guarantee similar rates elsewhere or continued gains in the coming weeks.

Farmers should also account for harvesting, storage, transportation and other selling costs when evaluating the returns from their crop. Comparing the net amount received from different buyers can help them make a more informed decision.

Also Read: Sonalika Tractors Sets World Record with 34,000 Sq. Ft. ‘दम’ Inscription

CMV360 Says

Paddy prices have strengthened during the 2026-27 Kharif marketing season, with 1121 Basmati reportedly reaching a record level and 1509 crossing ₹4,800 per quintal. Several states have also recorded higher average prices than last year, while rising international rice prices are supporting market sentiment. However, prices remain dependent on crop quality, local arrivals, export demand and government policies. Farmers should check current mandi rates before selling.