The coriander market at Ramganjmandi in Rajasthan's Kota district, widely regarded as Asia's largest coriander market, is seeing a sharp rise in fresh crop arrivals these days. As supply has increased, so have prices, bringing relief and smiles to farmers across the region. Thanks to its distinctive aroma and superior quality, coriander from Ramganjmandi has carved out a reputation not just within India but in international markets as well, and trading activity here influences the spice trade across the entire country.
A 40 year hub for the coriander trade
The Ramganjmandi agricultural produce market has remained the leading centre for coriander trade for nearly 40 years. Several major spice companies across the country source their coriander directly from here. In fact, coriander prices in markets nationwide are largely determined based on the rates set at Ramganjmandi. Traders say that the quality on offer and the transparent trading system have steadily built trust among buyers both in India and abroad.
Kota Hadoti region supplies over 70 percent of the country's coriander
The Kota and Hadoti region is considered the country's largest coriander producing belt, accounting for more than 70 percent of India's total coriander output. According to the agriculture department, coriander was sown across roughly 7,245 hectares in Kota district this year, yielding around 10,868 metric tonnes of production. Given the strong yield, farmers are hopeful of getting better market rates this season.
The wholesale price of whole coriander is currently averaging between 12,000 and 15,000 rupees per quintal. At Ramganjmandi in Kota, prices are ranging from about 12,000 to 15,000 rupees per quintal. In the Baran market, coriander is selling between 12,210 and 13,500 rupees per quintal, while at the Kawai market prices have been recorded between 13,580 and 13,775 rupees per quintal.
New 6,600 tonne cold storage to safeguard farmers' produce
To protect farmers' produce and ease their burden, a modern cold storage facility with a capacity of 6,600 metric tonnes has been set up at Ramganjmandi. Farmers will no longer be forced to sell their crop immediately at low prices, and can instead store their coriander safely until better rates are available. The agriculture department believes this facility will also help raise farmers' incomes.
Ramganjmandi's fragrant coriander reaches Germany, Japan and beyond
The fragrant coriander grown around Ramganjmandi is exported to several countries including Germany, Japan, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Its quality and aroma continue to enjoy strong demand in international markets. Farmers growing coriander say that if prices remain firm in the market, they expect good earnings this season. The horticulture department also believes that better production, modern storage facilities and rising export demand will further strengthen Ramganjmandi's reputation in the coming days.
