Moong Cultivation Hits New Highs
As of September 17, 2024, moong bean sowing for the kharif season has seen a significant uptick, covering 35.3 lakh hectares—a notable 12.7% increase from the previous year and reaching 95% of the normal sowing area. Karnataka has emerged as a standout performer, with sowing expanding by a remarkable 145% to 4.4 lakh hectares, surpassing the usual 4.2 lakh hectares. In Rajasthan, sowing has grown by 5% to 23.2 lakh hectares, while Maharashtra has seen a 30% rise to 2.4 lakh hectares. Odisha also reported a 3% increase, reaching 1.43 lakh hectares, well above the typical 0.85 lakh hectares. In contrast, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat have experienced declines, with reductions of 23% and 15%, respectively.
This increase in sowing can be attributed to the surge in moong bean prices, prompting farmers in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Odisha, and Maharashtra to expand their planting areas. However, persistent rainfall in Rajasthan's major growing regions has caused significant crop damage, casting a shadow over the otherwise promising growth.
Moong Bean Prices Surge Amidst Supply Constraints
The supply of summer season moong beans from Uttar Pradesh has plummeted, leading to a notable reduction in the availability of high-quality beans. Supplies from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh are also dwindling, with even old or lower-grade beans disappearing from the market.
Currently, moong bean prices in Jaipur are trading between ₹8600 and ₹8700 per quintal, marking an 8.7% increase since the beginning of the month. With the supply situation remaining tight, prices are expected to continue their upward trend unless there is a significant influx of new crop arrivals from Rajasthan.
Moong Price Chart 
In conclusion, the moong bean market is witnessing a perfect storm of increased sowing, supply constraints, and rising demand. While higher prices have incentivized farmers to expand cultivation, persistent rainfall in key growing regions has resulted in crop damage, further tightening supply. As a result, prices have surged, and with limited stock on hand, the upward trend is likely to continue in the near term. All eyes are now on the upcoming kharif crop size, as the extent of damage caused by the rains will be critical in determining the actual output. The size and quality of these new arrivals will play a key role in influencing price movements. Traders and stakeholders should brace for potential volatility, as the market could either stabilize with sufficient crop inflows or continue its bullish momentum if the supply remains tight.
"With supply dwindling and demand soaring, moong bean prices are set to climb even higher—keeping traders on edge for what's next."