Barley to stay firm

COMMODITY SPIKES

The near-month futures and the spot prices of barley rose by over 2 per cent on tight supply conditions.

According to traders based in Jaipur "" the main delivery centre "" markets will remain firm for the time being.

"Though we do not see any further considerable rise, Rs 10-20 a quintal increase is expected in the physical market," said a trader.

During the last week, spot prices rose by Rs 25-30 to cross the Rs 750-level. The arrival has come down to as low as 400-500 bags (of 80 kg each). During the peak season (April-May), arrivals even reach 10,000 bags a day.

On Saturday, the contract for June delivery on NCDEX closed at Rs 796 a quintal against the previous week's close of Rs 778 a quintal.