Now, basmati cheaper than Sona Masuri as rice prices soar

Hyderabad: In a surprising shift in the rice market, low-grade basmati rice is now available at a lower price than superfine varieties of Sona Masuri even as the prices of fine rice continue to rise sharply in Hyderabad and across Telangana. Basmati rice is available in different price segments at Rs 90 and Rs 120, while fine rice in the retail market currently ranges between Rs 85 and Rs 90 per kg, while several premium varieties have crossed Rs 100-per-kg mark.

In the past one month, the price of a 25-kg bag of fine rice increased by Rs 300 to Rs 500 and more, putting an additional burden on household budgets. Raw fine rice, which previously cost around Rs 1,500 per 25-kg bag, is now selling for approximately Rs 1,900. Similarly, steam rice prices have increased from around Rs 1,600 to Rs 2,100 per bag.

Interestingly, basmati rice is available in different price segments, starting at Rs 90. While mid-range varieties are available for prices between Rs 120 and Rs 140 per kg, the premium varieties cost around Rs 240 per kg.

However, low-grade basmati varieties are proving cheaper than superfine Sona Masuri rice, reflecting a significant change in consumer price comparisons. In comparison, Sona Masuri varieties are selling at around Rs 90 per kg, while HMT rice is priced at approximately Rs 104 per kg.

This has made certain superfine non-basmati varieties more expensive than lower-grade basmati rice! “The prices of fine rice have increased considerably in the last one month with around Rs 300 and more per bag.

Customers are finding it difficult to manage with these frequent price increases,” said a rice trader in Osmangunj in Hyderabad, said, Another wholesale trader observed: “There is a noticeable change in buying preferences. Some customers are comparing low-grade basmati with superfine Sona Masuri because the price difference has narrowed now”.

The steep increase in rice prices has also begun affecting household budgets, with consumers expressing concern over the rising cost of the essential food item.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MM Farooqui

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M M Farooqui, senior correspondent with interest in writing a range of stories about Hyderabad and its Purana Sheher. An experienced journalist specializing in departments including Heritage, Transport, Municipal Corporation, Majlis among others with over six years of writing expertise. When not immersed in writing, he can be found spending time in eating Hyderabadi cuisines, Mughlai, Chinese, exploring new things and listening to songs and qawwalis. Farooqui is an accomplished writer with a passion for writing with six years of experience, he has honed his craft in various genres. Farooqui’s diverse family history and embracing cultures have enriched his writing with unique perspectives.

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