With the advent of Navratri festivities, wheat prices in North Indian markets have started to firm up even as flour makers are busy replenishing their inventories.
This could complicate the Centre’s decision to extend the free foodgrains distribution scheme beyond September 30, which, though, the government seems to have decided in favour of.
Demand for atta (wheat flour) and other wheat-related products such maida and sooji usually goes up during festival days because various home-made delicacies are made from them.
Trade and market sources said wheat prices in wholesale markets of Delhi had risen by around Rs 40 per quintal