Rice prices have continued to rise across Chhattisgarh during festive season, increasing the burden on household budgets. Market trends in Bhilai, Durg, Raipur and Bilaspur indicate that several popular varieties have become costlier by Rs 10 to Rs 40 per kg, depending on quality, brand and availability. A comparison of market prices shows that a month ago, HMT rice was selling at around Rs 50-60 per kg, while two weeks ago, it had reached Rs 65-70. Currently, it is selling at around Rs 75 per kg. Kali Mooch, which was priced at Rs 58-68 a month ago, rose to Rs 70-78 two weeks ago and is now available at around Rs 85 per kg. Shriram increased from Rs 65-75 to Rs 75-88 and is currently quoted at around Rs 100 per kg in some markets. Abba Huzoor, earlier available at Rs 70-76 per kg, reached Rs 90-95 two weeks ago and is now selling at around Rs 110. Jeera Rice has also witnessed a sharp increase, moving from Rs 80-90 a month ago to Rs 100-110 two weeks ago and currently touching Rs 120 per kg. Jawa Phool, which was priced at Rs 115-120, rose to Rs 125-140 two weeks ago. In Bilaspur, ordinary parboiled and broken rice has increased from around Rs 35 to Rs 50 per kg, while premium varieties are selling at up to Rs 100.

 

Office-bearers of rice millers’ associations attribute the increase mainly to declining stocks of old paddy at mills, festive demand and limited availability of fine and aromatic varieties. They expect some relief after November-end, when new paddy arrivals and milling improve supply. Another factor is the declining cultivation of fine and aromatic paddy varieties, as farmers increasingly prefer coarse varieties due to better production and assured procurement at Rs 3,100 per quintal. Fine paddy is also becoming expensive in neighbouring states such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, adding to procurement and transportation costs. Traders have also cited unseasonal rain and floods as possible reasons for supply disruptions, although official figures confirming crop losses are unavailable. Rice mill operators say the shortage of old stock and increased festive demand are affecting production and market supply. The price rise is also affecting hotels and restaurants, where rice is a major daily expense, putting pressure on operating costs. The State is scheduled to begin paddy procurement on November 15 at Rs 3,100 per quintal. Increased arrivals may improve supply, but the timing and extent of any reduction in retail prices remain uncertain.