Rains hit mustard output by 10%

The recent heavy rains in north India have hit mustard output in Rajasthan by 10 per cent, with the state's crop output estimated at around 35 lakh tonne this year. The country's rabi crop production is expected to be about 55 lakh tonne this year.

The low output has dented the Nafed's mustard purchase plans in Rajasthan. Besides, hectic purchases of mustard by oil mills in the state have also hit the agency's procurement plans.

Meanwhile, the daily arrival of the crop in many mandis across the state such as Kota, Alwar, Bharatpur and Jaipur is low at around 1.5 lakh bags. The Nafed will, hence, not be able to achieve the procurement target this year.

Last year, the agency had registered a record mustard procurement in the state.

Traders are expected to begin the mustard purchases in Malwa and Nimar from the next month.