Spice Bounty in Gujarat
In its second advance estimate for the 2023-24 season, Gujarat takes center stage. The spice spectacle flares with a remarkable cumin production surge. Thus painting a promising picture for spice enthusiasts across the globe.
Cumin Production Doubles
Cumin witnesses a near-doubling in production from 0.214 million tonnes to an impressive 0.408 million tonnes. This surge marks a four-year record in cumin sowing. Especially in the spice-rich states of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Gujarat’s Rabi Season Sowing
The spice-rich state of Gujarat has its spice during the Rabi season. Cumin, fennel, coriander, garlic, and onion are cultivated across acres. The sowing process is underway, and we expect a late February or early March harvest.
Cumin’s Rise and Fall
As cumin sowing reaches a record high, prices experience a rollercoaster ride. The January 8 data shows a 160 percent increase in cumin sowing area in Gujarat, totaling 0.560 million hectares. In Rajasthan, cumin sowing stands at 0.690 million hectares, 25 percent higher than the previous year.
Spices Board Data
Spices Board data reveals a cumulative cumin sowing area of more than 1.250 million hectares, a remarkable 38 percent increase from the previous year. Despite a price decline in the last quarter, cumin’s popularity among farmers continues to soar.
Price Fluctuations and Challenges
The Spice Exim attributes the surge in cumin cultivation to the high gin prices last year, motivating farmers to sow cumin extensively. But, experts from the South Asian Biotech Center warn of challenges. Issues such as water shortage, Fusarium wilt attacks, and climate-related issues might impact the crop size.
A Bumper Crop Impact
Despite a recent price fall, the spice market’s future remains uncertain. Market changes, changing climate patterns, and challenges like water scarcity contribute to the unpredictability of cumin prices.
Conclusion
Cumin and fennel production in Gujarat is set to soar in the 2023-24 season. While there’s a large drop in coriander yield due to changes in the sowing area, cumin production doubled. Prices might decline with cumin sown on a large scale in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Yet, water shortage and Fusarium wilt attacks pose uncertainties in estimating the bumper crop size.
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