Onions have emerged as a primary focal point of this volatility, with market prices oscillating between a baseline of Rs. 1,300.00 and a peak of Rs. 1,500.00 per quintal. This price movement is closely mirrored by the arrival data, which shows a steady but shifting volume of stock entering the city. With daily arrivals recorded at approximately 225.08 and 202.28 metric tonnes, the average market rate has stabilized near the Rs. 1,400.00 mark. This sector remains particularly sensitive to external supply chain factors, as the absence of a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for these perishables leaves the final consumer cost at the mercy of daily procurement shifts and regional harvest cycles.
In contrast, the market for Potatoes presents a narrative of absolute consistency, albeit at a significantly lower price point for growers. Prices have remained locked at a flat Rs. 300.00 per quintal, showing no movement despite substantial variations in supply volume. Market arrivals for the tuber have seen significant spikes, peaking at 511.35 metric tonnes before settling back toward the 390-tonne range. This suggests a saturated market where high availability is keeping costs suppressed, providing relief to households but posing a challenge for producers seeking higher margins in the 2026-27 window.
The Tomato trade, however, represents the most drastic shift in market dynamics. While initial pricing touched Rs. 1,600.00 per quintal, a subsequent influx of supply has driven the rate down to Rs. 1,200.00. Arrival figures for Tomatoes have shown a gradual upward trajectory, moving from 195.05 to 213.68 metric tonnes, indicating that as the harvest reaches the Chandigarh mandis in greater bulk, the immediate inflationary pressure on the red fruit is beginning to ease. This downward adjustment is a critical indicator of market health, showcasing the speed at which localized supply can stabilize retail expectations.
As Chandigarh navigates these early season trends, the administrative and economic implications of these figures remain significant. The data underscores the critical need for robust cold storage and logistics management to prevent the sharp price drops seen in the Potato sector while mitigating the spikes observed in Tomato and Onion trades. For stakeholders and consumers alike, these figures represent more than just daily commerce; they serve as a barometer for the regional agricultural economy's resilience. Moving forward, the consistency of these arrivals will be the determining factor in whether Chandigarh enjoys a season of price stability or faces the challenges of a fluctuating food basket.
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