The prices of leafy green vegetables have fallen sharply over the past fortnight, following the retreat of the extended monsoon and as the festive season comes to a close. The dual impact of incessant rains and heightened demand during the months of celebrations had driven a surge in prices that now appears to be easing. Ram Mahajan, Secretary of the Mahatma Phule Adatiya Association, explained the factors behind the fluctuation. “The extended monsoon and continuous festivals, from Durga Puja to Ganeshotsav and Diwali, significantly influenced consumption. Spinach, for instance, became indispensable for Mahaprasad Palak Bhaji or Dal Bhaji during the celebrations. During the peak of the season, it touched Rs 160 per kg, but has now eased to Rs 60 per kg,” he said.

 

 

 

 

Mahajan added that the unusually prolonged rainfall disrupted the agricultural rhythm. “In Vidarbha and Nagpur region, rains generally withdraw by August, but this year they lingered much longer,” he noted. The delayed harvests created short-term scarcities precisely during the most consumption-intensive period. With the conclusion of the festive season, prices have begun to normalise. Fenugreek (Methi) has dropped from Rs 160 to Rs 100 per kg, while Amaranthus (Chawali) has fallen from Rs 100 to Rs 60 per kg, he said, adding that supplies from Aurangabad, which earlier helped stabilise the market, have now ceased completely. Mahajan also remarked that when the local produce begins arriving in December, the market typically witnesses a sharper correction. “Farmers bring their produce in bulk, and prices plunge accordingly.” 

 

 

For consumers, the easing prices have welcomed a sense of relief. Aastha Sinha, a homemaker from Dharampeth, expressed her satisfaction. “During the festivals, everything was priced exorbitantly. Now we can once again balance nutrition and economy,” she expressed. Priyanka Gupta, a buyer at Cotton Market, highlighted the health benefits of the leafy vegetables. “Each of these greens carries its own virtues. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, so it strength and immunity. Fenugreek supports heart health and helps balance cholesterol, while Amaranthus is abundant in calcium and fibre. As the season shifts, these nutrients are vital. With affordable prices, families can now serve them generously to their children,” she shared. Yet, the decline brings a mixed outcome for cultivators. Vegetable vendor Ramesh Kale observed, “Customers are content, but farmers are grappling with narrow margins. When prices collapse like this, they struggle even to recover labour costs. Still, the higher customer turnout offers some relief.” He concluded by saying that if the weather remains stable, both sides may soon find equilibrium.