Wed Oct 02 07:50:24 UTC 2024: ## Nut Prices Skyrocket in Bhatapara Market Ahead of Festive Season

**Bhatapara, Chhattisgarh:** The festive season has brought a surge in prices for nuts in the Bhatapara market, with Makhana (Foxnut) topping the list at a whopping ₹1100-1500 per kilogram.

This price hike is primarily due to a near 80% loss in the Makhana crop in Bihar, the sole supplier of this popular nut across India. The high demand ahead of Vijayadashami and Diwali, coupled with upcoming wedding seasons, has further fueled the price surge.

Following closely is the price of Walnut kernels, which are trading at ₹800-1300 per kilogram, reflecting increased demand for this nut over the past two years. In contrast, whole Walnuts are relatively stable, priced between ₹500-800 per kilogram, with lower demand compared to the kernels.

Cashew nuts are seeing consistent demand across all varieties. While whole Cashews are steady at ₹850-950 per kilogram, the prices of two-piece and four-piece Cashew nuts are steadily climbing, reaching ₹820-880 and ₹780-830 per kilogram respectively.

Although demand for Almonds is weaker, the prices remain robust, ranging from ₹650-840 per kilogram. Raisins and Apricots provide some relief with prices at ₹200-340 and ₹280-400 per kilogram respectively.

With the festive season just around the corner, hoteliers and sweet shops have begun their nut purchases, but the high wholesale prices have prompted them to focus on nuts with consistent demand. This price surge is a cause for concern for consumers, who are likely to face higher costs for their festive treats this year.

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