Wheat Prices Cross ₹3,000 per Quintal, Basmati Rice Prices May Recover

Key Highlights

• Wheat prices in Delhi reached ₹3,000 per quintal on October 13, 2026.

• 1509 basmati prices declined after reaching ₹4,600-₹4,700 per quintal.

• Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh mandis reported varying paddy prices.

• New Steam Sella (A+) rice was priced at ₹8,750-₹8,900 per quintal.

• Rainfall, crop damage, arrivals and demand will influence future basmati prices.

Wheat prices have crossed ₹3,000 per quintal in Delhi's Lawrence Road market, indicating a stronger trend in the wheat market. Meanwhile, basmati paddy and rice prices have fluctuated in recent weeks, with the 1509 variety witnessing a decline after a sharp rise in late September and early October 2026.

Rainfall has affected crop arrivals and market operations in several regions. If continued rain damages standing crops and reduces the supply of paddy to mandis, basmati prices could recover. However, the future market trend will depend on crop conditions, arrivals, demand and the quality of the produce.

Wheat Prices Reach ₹3,000 per Quintal in Delhi

Wheat prices have strengthened in Delhi's Lawrence Road mandi, increasing by ₹50 per quintal over the past week. On October 13, 2026, mill-quality wheat (2% CD/1.3 kg grain) was trading between ₹2,970 and ₹3,000 per quintal.

Wheat arrivals at the market were estimated at around 6,000 to 7,000 bags. The price increase indicates improved firmness in the market, and traders will closely monitor arrivals and demand to understand the next price movement.

1509 Basmati Paddy Prices Fluctuate in October

The 1509 basmati variety has experienced significant price fluctuations this season. Prices started September at around ₹3,700 to ₹3,800 per quintal before climbing to ₹4,600-₹4,700 per quintal in late September and early October. The market subsequently weakened. On October 6, combined rice of the 1509 variety was recorded at ₹4,595 per quintal in Tarn Taran and ₹4,382 in Samana. On October 8 and 9, prices declined to approximately ₹4,400-₹4,450 per quintal.

By October 12, prices had reached ₹4,415 per quintal in Tarn Taran, ₹4,365 in Samana and ₹4,265 in Amritsar. The latest prices show differences across markets, reflecting local supply, quality and trading conditions. Although some strength has emerged in the broader rice market, a sustained recovery in 1509 basmati prices is not yet certain.

Latest 1509 Paddy Prices in Punjab

Punjab's major mandis have reported varying prices for the 1509 paddy variety. The following rates were reported per quintal:

These differences highlight the importance of checking local mandi rates before selling. Prices can vary according to paddy quality, moisture content, harvesting method and local demand.

Latest 1509 Paddy Prices in Haryana

Haryana mandis have reported different rates for hand-harvested and combine-harvested paddy. The reported prices are as follows:

All prices are per quintal. The figures show a noticeable difference between hand-harvested and combine-harvested paddy in several markets. Farmers should consider the quality and condition of their produce when comparing these rates.

Latest 1509 Paddy Prices in Uttar Pradesh

Paddy arrivals remain significant in several Uttar Pradesh mandis, with prices varying considerably between markets.

All prices are per quintal.

Aligarh has reported substantial arrivals of between 80,000 and 1 lakh bags. Mainpuri has also recorded arrivals ranging from 65,000 to 1,20,000 bags, with prices between ₹3,430 and ₹3,650 per quintal. The high variation in prices across Uttar Pradesh markets underlines the need to assess local trading conditions before making a selling decision.

Basmati Rice Prices Show Slight Improvement

The basmati rice market has shown some improvement, but limited demand could restrict a stronger price recovery. According to available market information, the latest reported prices for different rice varieties are:

These rates indicate some strength in the rice market. However, the direction of prices will depend on buying interest, the availability of rice and the quality of incoming paddy.

How Will Wheat and Basmati Prices Move Next?

Wheat prices in Delhi have strengthened, with rates touching ₹3,000 per quintal. The market's next movement will depend on demand, supply and the volume of arrivals in the coming days.

For basmati, rainfall and its impact on the standing crop will be important factors. Heavy rain can disrupt harvesting, transportation and mandi operations. If it also damages crops and reduces the quantity of marketable paddy, lower arrivals could support a recovery in prices.

However, rainfall does not automatically lead to higher prices. If supplies remain sufficient or demand stays weak, prices may continue to fluctuate. Farmers and traders should therefore monitor daily mandi rates, crop conditions and changes in demand instead of relying on expectations of a rally.

What Should Farmers Keep in Mind While Selling Basmati Paddy?

Farmers should make selling decisions based on local market rates, crop quality, moisture levels and their immediate financial requirements.

• Check local mandi prices: Compare rates across nearby markets before selling.

• Protect dry, good-quality paddy: Avoid rushing to sell quality produce solely because prices have temporarily weakened.

• Consider phased selling: If prices for 1509 combine paddy improve, farmers may consider selling their produce in stages, depending on their storage facilities and financial needs.

• Monitor rainfall and arrivals: Weather-related crop damage and changes in mandi supply can influence prices.

• Avoid panic selling: Short-term market declines do not necessarily indicate a prolonged fall. Decisions should be based on actual market conditions.

Farmers should also ensure that stored paddy remains dry and protected from moisture to help preserve its quality.

Also Read: UP Government Releases ₹493 Crore Relief for 9.18 Lakh Farmers

CMV360 Says

Wheat prices have strengthened in Delhi, reaching ₹3,000 per quintal, while 1509 basmati paddy prices have eased after rising sharply in late September and early October. Rice prices are showing slight improvement, but a sustained recovery remains uncertain. Rainfall, crop damage, mandi arrivals and demand will shape future trends. Farmers should monitor local prices, protect good-quality dry paddy and consider phased selling rather than making decisions based on short-term market fluctuations.