The disparity is most striking in the trade of Bengal Gram and Black Gram, both of which have bypassed official price cushions by significant margins. For the current season, the MSP for Bengal Gram was established at 5,650.00 per quintal, yet the prevailing market price has surged to 8,750.00 per quintal. Similarly, Black Gram—locally known as Urd Beans—is fetching a commanding 13,750.00 per quintal, nearly doubling its official support price of 7,800.00. These figures suggest a strained supply chain, further evidenced by the skeletal arrival data; Black Gram recorded a mere 0.20 metric tonnes in volume, while Bengal Gram arrivals stood at a marginal 0.60 metric tonnes, indicating that the market is operating under severe supply constraints.
While pulses dominate the high-value shifts, the vegetable sector remains a critical area of focus for local administrators and consumers alike. Onions are currently circulating through Manipur’s markets at a steady 3,750.00 per quintal, supported by a modest arrival volume of 2.30 metric tonnes. Potatoes, a staple of the regional diet, are trading at 2,250.00 per quintal with a relatively healthier arrival rate of 3.80 metric tonnes. Unlike pulses, these perishable commodities do not carry a specific MSP, leaving their valuation entirely to the nuances of daily supply and regional logistics.
The current pricing structure highlights a complex economic reality for Manipur’s agricultural sector. While the high market rates for pulses could theoretically benefit producers, the exceptionally low arrival volumes suggest that local yields may not be sufficient to capitalize on these prices, or that logistical bottlenecks are preventing produce from reaching primary trading hubs. As the 2026-27 cycle progresses, the sustained pressure on pulse prices is likely to necessitate a closer look at inter-state trade dependencies and storage infrastructure. For the people of Manipur, these figures are more than just statistics; they represent the evolving cost of food security in an increasingly volatile market environment.
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