Centre Worried Over Continuing Strength In Edible Oil

Mumbai: Mr T. Nand Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, has summoned industry and trade associations relating to the edible oil sector for a meeting to be held in New Delhi on July 2. Edible oils have a fairly high weightage in the consumer price index. It is clear the Government is worried over maintaining strength in the edible oil market. World prices have soared and domestic production is below expectation. Progressive reductions in customs duty in recent months, especially in palm group of oils, have not helped contain domestic prices as globally the market has been near-record high in the wake of demand from the biodiesel sector.
Across edible oils soyabean, palm, rapeseed and sun the duty could be uniformly brought to 45 per cent. More important, if the Government seeks quick relief from high prices, customs duty on both crude and refined oils should be unified and permitted for import at the same rate of duty. The time lag (window of speculative opportunity) between import of crude oil and marketing of refined oils should be closed. Demand at the lower end of the market is drying up as edible oils have become unaffordable. A sure way to support poor consumers is to quickly restart supply of edible oils through the public distribution system (PDS). The Government's reluctance is intriguing. The domestic oilseed crop prospects will become clear not before mid-August.

Bengal Asked To Establish Body For Vetting EOIs By Tea Cos

Jalpaiguri: Pointing out that some 45 tea gardens in West Bengal have been chose for loan/subsidy disbursement till date (out of 81 applications received from tea companies so far) under the Government's Special Purpose Tea Fund (SPTF) scheme for productivity enhancement in the tea sector, Mr Jairam Ramesh, Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, said here that negotiations will be held soon with the West Bengal Government to put in place a machinery to evaluate EOIs pouring in from various tea companies for SPTF. The Minister said it has been decided to effect a ten-fold increase in allocation for social welfare measures in tea gardens (water, health, education of workers' children etc), from Rs 5 crore to Rs 50 crore.
The approach may also involve invoking of Section 16D of the Tea Board Act under which gardens may be taken away legally from absentee owners and handed over to new entrepreneurs willing to run the garden professionally. Citing the example of both Kanan Devan Hills Plantations in Kerala, now working under a worker-owned professionally managed set-up and Durgabari Tea Estate in Tripura, run by a workers' cooperative, the minister said efforts were on to bring some of the big closed gardens in the Dooars area such as Chamurchi, Samsing and Bharnobari.

Govt Bets On Falling Corn Prices To Rub Off On Wheat

New Delhi: Even as there is every possibility of bidders quoting upwards of $310 per tonne cost & freight in the State Trading Corporation of India's (STC) latest 10 lakh tonne (lt) wheat import tender, the Centre is counting on the declining trend in international corn (maize) price to rub off on wheat. But witnessing the way corn prices have fallen, there is bound to be some adjustment in wheat as well. Currently, soft red winter (SRW) wheat futures for September at the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) is ruling at about $6.2 per bushel, against $3.5 for the same month's corn contract. The only other time when the wheat premium over corn reached the present levels was in July 1996, when it crossed a record $ 2.9 per bushel (one bushel equals 27.216 kg). Wheat prices are normally linked to corn via the feed grain route. In recent times, high petroleum prices have led to diversion of corn for manufacture of fuel ethanol. Lower availability of corn for feed has, in turn, generated higher demand for wheat as feed, pushing up its prices as well. Logically, a spread of $2.7 a bushel over corn would make wheat too costly for animal-feed use and, thereby, reduce demand and bring down prices.

Rubber Witnesses Down Trend

Kottayam: Spot rubber resumed the downward journey on June 28. On the physical side, RSS 4 declined to Rs 75 a kg from Rs 75.75 and Rs 75.50 a kg respectively at Kottayam and Kochi. The domestic rubber futures stayed in tune with the global mood adding moderate losses to all its contracts. The July contract on NMCE declined to Rs 75 (76.27), August to Rs 75.61 (77.22), September to Rs 75.71 (77.14) and October to Rs 75.90 (77.27) per kg for RSS 4. The volumes improved to 3,112 (2,846) tonnes. The July contract for RSS 4 fell further to Rs 75.05 (76.28) a kg on MCX. The open interest totalled 6,042 (5,904) lots with 2,616 (2,631) lots in July, 2,025 (1,907) lots in August, 888 (864) lots in September and 513 (502) lots in October on NMCE.The July futures for RSS 3 declined to 258.3Yen (Rs 85.75) from 263.1 Yen a kg at TOCOM. The grade fell by 89 paise to Rs 89.14 a kg at Bangkok. Physical prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 75 (75.75); RSS-5: 73 (73.75); ungraded: 71 (72); ISNR 20: 72.50 (73) and latex 60 per cent: 56.85 (57.35).

Pepper Witnesses Down Trend

Kochi: The pepper futures market saw high fluctuations on June 27, and closed easier on reports of decline in Vietnam prices. Investors were purchasing NCDEX delivered at current prices. The purchasers might step in next week if the increase in Indian parity is proved to be on the strength of the market and not on speculation. In the international market, prices of other origins were steady at previous levels. In the domestic market, Coorg pepper is reportedly cheaper and hence majority of the domestic players are concentrating there, they said. July contract on NCDEX fell by Rs 55 a quintal on June 27, to close at Rs 14,975 from Rs 15,030 on June 26.

Pepper Future Witnesses Down Trend

Kochi: Pepper futures market saw fall on June 26, on reports of decline in Vietnam prices. Good quantity was sold at Rs 138-146 a kg. Investor players were purchasing NCDEX delivered spot and selling September delivery in NCDEX, while others were purchasing farm grade pepper and selling September. India was offering only 550 GL and 560 GL MG1 and the Indian parity was at $3,900-3,950 a tonne (c&f). Vietnam was offering V Asta at $4,160 a tonne (f.o.b), while Brazil has quoted 560 GL at $3,650 a tonne (fob).
July contract on NCDEX fell by Rs 165 a quintal on June 26, to Rs 14,970. The increase in other contracts was from Rs 179 to Rs 221 a quintal. On NMCE, July contract fell by Rs 206 a quintal to Rs 14,770. December increased by Rs 239 a quintal to Rs 16,100. Total turnover on NCDEX dropped by 5,275 tonnes to 22,946 tonnes, while on NMCE it increased by 64 tonnes to 2,366 tonnes. Total open interest on NCDEX moved up by 430 tonnes to 24,285 tonnes, while July position declined by 285 tonnes to 5,449 tonnes.

Rubber Sees Bearish Trend

Kottayam: A pessimistic trend continued to prevail in the physical rubber market on June 26. RSS 4 fell to Rs 77 from Rs 77.75 and a kg at Kottayam but the grade finished steady at Rs 77.50 a kg at Kochi. The rubber futures turned better after an initial weakness on NMCE. The July contract increased to Rs 78 (77.94), August to Rs 79.02 (78.85), September to Rs 78.50 (78.20) and October contract to Rs 78.40 (78.23) per kg for RSS 4. The July contract for the grade ended slightly lower at Rs 78.50 (78.84) a kg on MCX. Spot prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 77 (77.75); RSS-5: 76 (76.50); ungraded: 74 (74.75); ISNR 20: 75.50 (76) and latex 60 per cent: 58.40 (58.40).

Prices Decline At Coonoor Tea Sales

Coonoor: About 30 per cent of the 11.1 lakh kg of teas offered at Sale No: 25 of the auctions of the Coonoor Tea Trade Association (CTTA) last week went unsold for want of expected bids. The purchasers showed no haste to buy at higher bids as the arrivals were increasing due to the recent rains. Quality teas, however, remained to fetch high prices. Among the CTC teas from bought leaf factories, Darmona Estate, sold by J Thomas and Co, continued to fetch high bids and the top price this week was Rs 106 a kg. Highfield Estate Special, Shanthi Supreme and Homedale Estate got Rs 82.
Green View got Rs 81, while Vigneshwar Estate and Kannavarai got Rs 80. Among the orthodox teas from corporate sector, Corsley got the highest price of Rs 112 a kg, followed by Thaishola and Curzon Rs 108, Prammas Rs 107, Kairbetta Rs 105, Glendale and Kodanaad Rs 104 and Chamraj Rs 102. In general, the prices decline Rs 3 a kg over the previous week. Brighter liquoring CTC leaf lost Rs 2-3. Medium BOP and BOPS grades shed Re 1. Smaller grades could be sold only when the prices were declined Rs 3. Plainer teas lost Rs 2-3. Fannings grades suffered withdrawals. Bolder sorts eased Rs 1.50-2.

Rubber Price Declines

Kottayam: Spot rubber weakened on June 25. RSS 4 declined to Rs 77.75 and Rs 77.50 a kg from Rs 78 and Rs 78.50 a kg respectively at Kottayam and Kochi. On National Multi Commodity Exchange, the last traded price for July fell to Rs 77.90 (78.79), August to Rs 78.81 (79.88), September to Rs 78.10 (79) and October to Rs 78.21 (78.74) per kg for RSS 4. The transactions totalled 1,742 (988) tonnes. On MCX, the July contract settled down at Rs 79 against Rs 79.52 a kg on the previous weekend. RSS 3 (spot) shed 15 paise and closed at Rs 89.63 a kg at Bangkok. Spot rates were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 77.75 (78); RSS-5: 76.50 (76.75); ungraded: 74.75 (75); ISNR 20: 76 (76.25) and latex 60 per cent: 58.40 (58.95).

Rubber Witnesses Steady Trend

Kottayam: Physical rubber prices finished unaltered on June 23. Sheet rubber RSS 4 closed flat at Rs 78 a kg at Kottayam, while the grade was quoted slightly better by 50 paise at Rs 78.50 a kg at Kochi. The July contract ended at Rs. 79.49 against Rs 80.18 a kg on MCX. On NMCE, the July contract retreated to Rs 78.97 (79.86), August to Rs 80 (80.93), September to Rs 79.00 (80.37) and October to Rs 78.60 (79.44) per kg for RSS 4. Spot prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 78 (78); RSS-5: 76.75 (76.75); ungraded: 75 (75); ISNR 20: 76.25 (76.25) and latex 60 per cent: 58.95 (57.90).

Pepper Futures Increase On Purchasing Support

Kochi: Pepper futures moved up on good purchasing support and a squeeze in availability. US purchasers have shown interest in Indian pepper, which is the cheapest in the world market at present. Spot arrivals, meanwhile, were very limited with the material available only with the exchanges. Vietnam prices have risen by $55 a tonne (f.o.b) on strong Chinese buying interest. Meanwhile, Brazil Asta was offered at $3,800 a tonne (f.o.b). June contract on NCDEX matured and 1,717 tonnes of pepper was delivered. The increase in other contracts was from Rs 291 a quintal to Rs 417. The total turnover on NCDEX dipped by 3,989 tonnes to 19,399 tonnes while on NMCE it declined by 909 tonnes to 1,800 tonnes. The total open interest on NCDEX increased by 976 tonnes to 22,939 tonnes. July position dropped by 342 tonnes to 7,425 tonnes while August increased by 1,211 tonnes to 12,122 tonnes. On NMCE, total open interest declined by six tonnes to 2,581 tonnes.

Rubber witnesses fall in prices

Kottayam: The day's mood was dampened by another sharp fell in TOCOM. The global trendsetter decline on profit booking and renewed selling pressure in late trading followed by yens climb against dollar. On the domestic front, sheet rubber weakened to Rs 80 from Rs 80.75 and Rs 81 a kg respectively at Kottayam and Kochi. The July contract on NMCE decline further to Rs 80.60 (82.49), August to Rs 81.71 (83.57), September to Rs 80.70 (82.36) and October to Rs 79.01 (80.48) per kg for RSS 4. Spot rates were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 80 (80.75); RSS-5: 79 (79.25); ungraded: 78 (78.50); ISNR 20: 78.50 (79) and latex 60 per cent: 60 (60).

Pepper futures fell as market players adjust limits

Kochi: Pepper futures fell on June 19, as the market players were adjusting their limits because of the quantitative restrictions, which will become effective from June 20. As the future deliveries are available at lower rates the exporters were offering Asta grade pepper cheaper. This phenomenon and the falling trend in the Indian prices seem to have compelled the Pepper Exporters Associations in Brazil, Indonesia and Vietnam to convene a meeting in Jakarta on Jun 25 - 28 to review the present international market scenario and why India is volatile and selling Asta pepper cheap. All other origins world over, were firm at higher levels while the Indian parity kept on dwindling. Brazil was offering Asta grade pepper at $3,600- 3,700 a tonne (f.o.b) while Indonesian parity for Lasta was said to be at $3,850-3,900 a tonne (f.o.b) and V Asta at $3,800-3,850 a tonne (f.o.b). Where as, the Indian parity was at $3,750-3,800 a tonne (c&f). June contract on NCDEX fell by Rs 36 a quintal on June 19, to Rs 13,628. December increased by Rs 297 a quintal to Rs 15,689. The total turnover on NCDEX dropped by 2,088 tonnes to 22,445 tonnes, while on NMCE, it dipped by 26 tonnes to 2,309 tonnes. The total open interest on NCDEX fell by 64 tonnes to 23,282 tonnes.

Cardamom rates fall on poor quality

Kochi: Cardamom prices fell during the week in Kerala and Tamil Nadu markets due to poor quality and weak demand. Meanwhile, MAS Enterprises, the auctioneers, which did not suspend the auction along with others after May 31 and conducted its auction on June 15 at Vandamedu, has also decided now to suspend auction till the arrival of the next crop hoped in late July/early August. The harvesting would depend on the behaviour of the Southwest monsoon, which has yet to pick up in the cardamom growing areas.

Apart from the uneconomical arrivals the auctioneers had to settle their accounts before the starting of the next season. The total arrivals during the current season upto June 8 stood at 8,189 tonnes as against 9,507 tonnes on the same date last season while the sales in the current season were at 7,526 tonnes compared with 8,882 tonnes in the corresponding period last season. Prices in the local market in Bodinayakannur were AGEB Rs 430-440, AGB Rs 360-370, AGS Rs 350- 360 and AGS 1 Rs 280-290. Harvesting will, therefore, depend solely on the behaviour of the current monsoon.

Pepper future bounce on Govt's assurance

Kochi: Pepper futures rebounded back on June 18, on reports that the Union Consumer Affairs Ministry has assured the jeera and pepper trade that it will look into their demands at a high-level meeting convened by it with Forward Markets Commission officials and Product Committee members in New Delhi. The speculative cartels of the bear lobby, which is manipulating the market through intra-day trade involving hundreds of tonnes of pepper, do not seem to permit the investors and exporters to enter the market in a big way and use the hedging facility. Vietnam was slightly lower for FAQ 500 GL at $3,250-$3,270 a tonne (f.o.b) while 550 GL at $3,500 tonne (f.o.b).

June contract on NCDEX on June 18, increased by Rs 377 a quintal to close at Rs 13,695 from Rs 13,318 last June 16,. The increase in other contracts was from Rs 442 to Rs 563 a quintal. On NMCE, July contract increased by Rs 383 a quintal to close at Rs 13,800 from Rs 13,417 at close last weekend. The increase in other contracts was from Rs 320 to Rs 576 a quintal. Total turnover on NCDEX also increased by 15,868 tonnes to 24,533 tonnes on Monday while on NMCE it increased by 1,620 tonnes to 2,283 tonnes. Total open interest on NCDEX declined by 199 tonnes to 23,346 tonnes. June and July positions fell by 608 tonnes and 819 tonnes respectively to 2,309 tonnes and 9,331 tonnes. On NMCE, total open interest moved up by 62 tonnes to 2,367 tonnes.

Rubber sees weak trend

Kottayam: Spot rubber closed weak during the weekend session. RSS 4 declined to Rs 80 from Rs 81 a kg as certain nervous dealers and growers pressed for sales since the market forayed into a technically critical level. On NMCE, the July contract surrendered to Rs. 81.50 (82.30), August to Rs 82.61 (83.52), September to Rs 81.63 (82.52) and October to Rs 80 (84) per kg for RSS 4. The July contract ended weak at Rs 82.46 against Rs 82.76 a kg on MCX. Spot rates were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 80 (81); RSS-5: 79.25 (79.50); ungraded: 78 (78); ISNR 20: 79 (79.25) and latex 60 per cent: 60 (60).

Guarseed future sees down trend

Mumbai: The downward trend of Guarseed futures remained this week and closed with a loss of Rs 81 to Rs 1,687 per quintal on June 15. Being a kharif crop, traders look for the onset of monsoon over Rajasthan the largest Guarseed producing State for deciding on the futures price trend. Guarseed futures on NCDEX turned weak after the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) expressed satisfaction over monsoon advancement. Guarseed opened at Rs 1,779 per quintal and declined to Rs 1,768 as sentiments turned bearish over IMD announcement. The turnover of guarseed futures on NCDEX during the week was Rs 1,660 crore.

Rajasthan accounts for 70 per cent of India's total production of about 5-7 lakh tonnes of guarseed per annum. Guar requires 8-15 inch of rain in 3-4 spells during the growing period and is harvested in October-November. Splitting guarseeds produces guar gum and guar powder, which are used in industries such as oil exploration, textiles and dyeing industries. Maize futures, which was trading flat at Rs 760 during the week is poised to move up in coming days as output is estimated to decline sharply, coupled with increasing demand from poultry and starch manufacturers.From a low of Rs 741 per quintal in May, July futures touched Rs 782 on June 6 and closed lower at Rs 758 per quintal on June 15. During 2006-07, India's maize production is pegged at 11 million tonnes (mt) against last year's production of 14.5 mt.

Orthodox teas benefit on demand at Kochi auctions

Kochi: There was a significant increase in leaf tea arrivals from 2.58 lakh kg to 3.87 lakh at the Kochi tea auction, while dust arrivals maintained last week highs at 13.18 lakh kg. Good liquoring CTC dust varieties remained barely steady while prices of other CTC eased by Rs 2-3. High grown orthodox varieties eased by Rs 2 - 3 even as medium orthodox were barely steady. Blenders were selective. Best CTC varieties fetched Rs 54 - 62, medium CTC reigned at Rs 48 - 52 and below medium were at Rs 38 - 42. High grown BOPD fetched Rs 105, medium BOPD ranged at Rs 45 - 46 and secondaries quoted Rs 33 - 38.

Good general demand perked up the prices of high grown orthodox varieties by Rs 2-3. Whole leaf grades were also higher. Medium orthodox witnessed a steady market. CTC varieties were firm around last week's levels. There was good demand from blenders and interstate buyers on CTC grades. Best Nilgiri leaf quoted at Rs 70 - 90, medium orthodox Rs 47 - 74 and plain orthodox ranged at Rs 42 - 44. Best CTC leaf fetched Rs 51 - 54 and medium CTC was at Rs 43 - 46.

Pepper futures decline

Kochi: Pepper futures market after moving up on June 14, declined on June 15, as the June delivery got over, 1and traders reduced their positions due to the quantity restrictions on nearby positions. Indian parity at present is highly competitive and yet some exporters said to have sold at $3,700-$3,750 a tonne (c&f) when there were buyers at $3,825 a tonne (c&f), market sources alleged. In the international scenario, the pepper prices in all the origins remained unchanged except India. June contract on NCDEX on June 16, dipped by Rs 223 a quintal to close at Rs 13,295. The fall in other contracts except November and December declined by Rs 129 to Rs 251 a quintal. November and December improved by Rs 25 and Rs 50 a quintal, respectively.

On NMCE, June contract increased by Rs 108 to close at Rs 13,351. All the other contracts fell by Rs 55 to Rs 262 a quintal. The total turnover on NCDEX fell by 8,530 tonnes to 19,312 tonnes, while on NMCE it declined by 854 tonnes to 1,873 tonnes. On NMCE, the total open interest increased by 142 tonnes to 2,478 tonnes, while June position stood at 204 tonnes. Spot prices, however, ruled firm on Friday at previous levels of Rs 13,400 (un-garbled) and Rs 14,000 (MG 1) a quintal.

Tea Board likely to acquire 3 closed estates in Bengal

Kolkata: The Union Government is analyzing whether action can be taken against the owners of three tea estates located in Dooars area in northern part of West Bengal by invoking the provisions of the Section 16(D) of the Tea Board Act. The three tea estates are Raipur, Sikarpur and Bhandarpur together employing more than 2,000 workers. The Chairman of Tea Board has been asked to examine how to proceed in the matter. In Kerala, five of the total number of 17 closed gardens had already been opened and eight others would be reopened soon while in West Bengal only one out of the 14 closed gardens could be reopened. Bharnobari, with a total area of 725 hectares employs 1,856 people, and Redbank, 368 hectares, 881 people. The first batch of loan applications under the Special Purpose Tea Fund would be signed with 58 tea companies controlling 81 gardens in West Bengal and the total amount of loan will be Rs 37 crore. In West Bengal, there were a total of 308 gardens.

Pepper future recovers

Kochi: Pepper futures market rebounded back on unconfirmed reports that good quantity of pepper was traded to Europe and the US on June 13.Add to this international traders who wanted to cover are also spreading rumours aimed at pushing the market down. On the other hand, the delay in taking a decision on the quantitative restrictions imposed on nearby position has put the genuine players in the market in a dilemma. In the international market prices of all the other origins ruled steady. Vietnam was offering 500 GL at $3,275-3,300 a tonne (f.o.b.), while Brazil was quoting $3,700 (f.o.b.) a tonne for B Asta. June contract on NCDEX increased by Rs 229 a quintal on June 14 to close at Rs 13,560 from Rs 13,331 on June 13. The increase in other contracts was from Rs 152 to Rs 295 a quintal. On NMCE June contract moved up by Rs 248 a quintal to close at Rs 13,250 from Rs 13,002. The increase in other contracts was from Rs 58 to Rs 296 a quintal. The total turnover on NCDEX went up by 4,012 tonne to 27,842 tonne while on NMCE it increased by 1,104 tonne to 2,727 tonne.

Pepper future witnesses sharp decline

Kochi: Falling trend continued in the pepper futures as no positive decision has emanated so far from the Regulator on the quantitative restrictions on nearby positions, which will apply on July contracts from June 16. The futures saw a sharp fall on June 13, as the maturity is drawing near. The continuous decline in the futures market has made Indian pepper very competitive in the international market only due to a technical squeeze and not on fundamental changes. Vietnam was quoting 500 GL at $3,375 a tonne (f.o.b) while Brazil was offering B1 at $3,600 a tonne (f.o.b) and B Asta at $3,700 - $3,750 a tonne (f.o.b). June contract on NCDEX declined sharply by Rs 487 a quintal on June 13, to Rs 13,365. The drop in other contracts was from Rs 471 to Rs 636 a quintal. On NMCE, June contract dropped by Rs 233 a quintal to Rs 13,000. The total turnover on NCDEX moved up by 6,241 tonnes to 23,830 tonnes, while on NMCE it went up by 467 tonnes to 1,623 tonnes. June position dropped by 2,030 tonnes to 379 tonnes.

Rubber prices regain

Kottayam: A recovery in international futures helped the domestic rubber prices to finish in green on June 13. In spot, sellers stayed back hopping a short-term recovery, while the covering groups turned active at lower levels. Sheet rubber moved up to Rs 82 and Rs 82.50 a kg from Rs 81 and Rs 81.50 a kg respectively at Kottayam and Kochi. On NMCE, the June contract increased to Rs 83 (82.13), July to Rs 85.05 (84.22), August to Rs 86.45 (85.26) and September contract to Rs 84.90 (83.78) per kg for RSS 4. RSS 3 firmed up to 269.9 Yen (Rs 90.47) from 267.2 Yen a kg at its July futures on TOCOM. But the grade decreased by 66 paise to Rs 91.57 from Rs 92.23 a kg at Bangkok spot. Spot prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 82 (81); RSS-5: 80.50 (80); ungraded: 79 (78.75); ISNR 20: 80 (79.50) and latex 60 per cent: 60 (59.70).

Removal of VAT on copra appreciated

Kochi: The First Commodities Exchange of India Ltd has congratulated the State Finance Minister for withdrawing the 4 per cent VAT on copra, saying that it would help the ailing oil mill industry a lot. The decision of the Government to remove the VAT on copra will result in producing quality coconut oil for mass distribution besides providing more employment. With the removal of VAT, the Oil Mills Trade and Industry would do its best to produce more quality coconut oil in the State to replace the edible oil supply chain.

Pepper future declines on market uncertainty

Kochi: Pepper futures market saw a fall on June 12, on continued uncertainty over the quantity restriction on nearby position even as the maturity of the June contract was drawing near. Indian parity for MG 1 has dropped by $50 a tonne to $3,750 a tonne (c&f). As the futures market keeps on falling, overseas buyers have taken a wait-and-watch approach. June contract fell on NCDEX by Rs 201 a quintal on June 12, to Rs 13,821. All other contracts declined by Rs 96-308 a quintal. Spot prices in tandem with the futures market trend fell by Rs 100 a quintal to close at Rs 13,500 (un-garbled) and Rs 14,100 (MG 1) on June 12. Total turnover on NCDEX fell by 6,706 tonnes to 17,589 tonnes, while on NMCE, it dropped by 1,286 tonnes to 1,156 tonnes. Total open interest on NCDEX declined by 191 tonnes to 24,972 tonnes, while June position fell by 720 tonnes to 5,420 tonnes and July by 185 tonnes to 11,378 tonnes. On NMCE, total open interest increased by 254 tonnes to 4,354 tonnes. June position also improved by 130 tonnes to 2,409 tonnes.

Pepper future declines

Kochi: The pepper futures market fell on continued uncertainty over the quantity restriction on nearby position that is likely to come into force from July 16. Given the competitive position of Indian pepper in the world market, a positive decision on this issue is urgently required. Those covered earlier are liquidating, fearing they would not be able to hold more than 100 tonnes after July 16. Intra-day trade is controlling the market, which is the bread and butter of the exchanges and the brokers. Vietnam was further easier to $3,290-$3,300 a tonne (f.o.b.) for 500 GL. June contract on NCDEX increased by Rs 49 on June 11, to close at Rs 14,049 from Rs 14,000. The decline in other contracts was from Rs 74 to Rs 196 a quintal. On NMCE, June contract fell by Rs 241 a quintal to close at Rs 13,200 from Rs 13,441. July, August and September dipped by Rs 167, Rs 181 and Rs 46 a quintal respectively while October and November increased by Rs 20 and Rs 100 respectively. The total turnover on NCDEX increased by 10,829 tonnes to 24,295 tonnes while on NMCE it increased by 1,203 tonnes to 2,442 tonnes. The total open interest on NCDEX dropped by 1,077 tonnes to 25,163 tonnes.

Rubber sees weak trend

Kottayam: The opening session of the week saw a sharp bear strike in physical rubber prices. The international markets remained to rule weak putting further pressure on the raw material. Sheet rubber declined to Rs 82 and Rs 82.50 a kg respectively at Kottayam and Kochi from Rs 83.50 a kg on previous weekend. The market lacked proper purchasing support and there were also some import rumours hovering around persuading traders to press for sales even at lower levels.

The rubber futures declined further quoting the July contract for RSS 4 at Rs 84.30 (85.78) a kg on MCX. The June contract for the grade fell to Rs 81.60 (83.17), July to Rs 84.41 (86.01), August to Rs 85.44 (86.31) and September contract to Rs 83.60 (84.17) per kg on NMCE. The open interest was 7,877 (7,731) lots with 2,885 (2,928) lots in June, 3,348 (3,345) lots in July, 1,250 (1,120) lots in August and 394 (338) lots in September. RSS 3 declined at its July futures to 271 Yen (Rs 90.99) from 273.1 Yen a kg at TOCOM. Spot rubber prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 82 (83.50); RSS-5: 80.50 (82.50); Ungraded: 79.50 (81.50); ISNR 20: 80 (82.50) and Latex 60 per cent: 60 (60).

CTC leaf, dust varieties see good demand

Kolkata: The CTC leaf and dust varieties in Kolkata, Siliguri and Guwahati auction centres saw good demand with improved sorts selling dear. The western Indian purchasers increased their purchases with a major blender purchasing more actively than in the previous week. The orthodox market continued to be buoyant with prices ruling firm to dearer. There were good inquiries from the shippers to West Asia and CIS countries. It was up as compared to 56.4 mkg in the same month of the previous year. The climatic condition in the second fortnight of May having improved, the crop prospects have brightened. Sri Lanka is likely to aggressively push its teas into Pakistan, whose tea trade size is pegged at $220 million.

Spices export increases 44pc in April

Kochi: During April 2007, the country exported 38,972 tonnes of spices and gained $78.99 million in foreign exchange (Rs 333.03 crore). This was an increase of 44 per cent in quantity of 27,209 tonnes of April last year, 61 per cent growth in rupee realisation (Rs 206.56 crore) and 72 per cent in dollar returns. Chilli contributed the highest in earnings at 38 per cent, followed by spice oils and oleoresins at 36 per cent and pepper at six per cent. All other spices have shown a fall in both quantity and value, other than curry powder exports, which have shown an increase in value alone. During April 2007, chillies export was 22,000 tonnes (6,644 tonnes) valued Rs 126.50 crore (Rs 30.11 crore), recording an increase of 231 per cent in quantity and 320 per cent in value.

Pepper exports amounted to 1,600 tonnes (1,575 tonnes) valued Rs 20.64 crore (Rs 13.18 crore). Cardamom (large) export grew to 200 tonnes (73 tonnes) valued Rs 2 crore (Rs 0.83 crore), reporting an increase of 173 per cent in quantity and 142 per cent in value. Export of coriander was of the order of 2,100 tonnes (1,657 tonnes) valued at Rs 7.24 crore (Rs 6.13 crore). Export of fennel was at 750 tonnes (334 tonnes) valued Rs 4.12 crore (Rs 1.86 crore). Mint exports grew to 1,200 tonnes (997 tonnes) valued Rs 81.60 crore (Rs 54.28 crore). Export of spice oils and oleoresins was up at 455 tonnes (450 tonnes) valued Rs 39.13 crore (Rs 38.11crore).

Pepper future witnesses sharp fallb

Kochi: The pepper futures market during the week has shown a sharp fall mainly on the uncertainty over the quantitative restrictions imposed on nearby positions and on rumours of downward trend in Vietnam. Exporters were purchasing from exchanges and exporting. In the international market, the prices at all other origins witnessed marginal fall but were by and large steady. No Asta grade pepper was on offer and hence the Indian parity for MG 1 remained competitive. The total turnover on NCDEX fell by 12,316 tonnes during the week to 1,29,033 tonnes while on NMCE it declined by 2,344 tonnes to 10,854 tonnes. The decline in June position was at 2,540 tonnes to 7,675 tonnes as the maturity of the contract is nearing. On NMCE, the total open interest during the week increased by 243 tonnes to close at 3,806 tonnes. June position fell by 108 tonnes to 2,484 tonnes.

Cardamom arrivals at Bodi auction stood at 47 tonnes

Kochi: With the auction held by STCL in Bodinayakannur on June 7, probably the season's auctions have come to an end. The first auction of the next season might be held in mid-August depending upon the beginning of harvesting. Total arrivals at the Bodi auction stood at 47 tonnes. The previous auction was held on June 1. Upcountry purchasers, considering it the last auction, were active. The total arrivals during the current season up to June 6 fetched at 8,128 tonnes while the total sales were at 7,471 tonnes. During the same period last season the total arrivals were at 9,410 tonnes and sales 8,786 tonnes. Thus, there was a sharp fall of 1,282 tonnes in arrivals and 1,315 tonnes in sales. The prices of graded varieties as on June 2 were AGEB Rs 450 - Rs 460, AGB Rs 390 - Rs 400, AGS Rs 370 - Rs 380 and AGS 1 Rs 325 - Rs 335 a kg. Prices in the open market at Bodinayakannur were AGEB Rs 440 - Rs 450, AGB Rs 370 - Rs 380, AGS Rs 360 - Rs 365 and AGS1 Rs 290 - Rs 300. Bulk was being sold at Rs 350 - Rs 440 a kg.

Pepper future declines

Kochi: Pepper futures market fell on June 8, due to the uncertainty over the quantity restrictions on nearby position. The revised quantity restriction would come into force from July 16 and hence there was panic in the market on July/August/September positions. Purchasers and sellers were liquidating their positions. The June contract on NCDEX fell by Rs 15 on June 8, to close at Rs 13,969 from Rs 13,984 on June 7. The decline in other contracts was from Rs 184 to Rs 240 a quintal. On NMCE, June contract dropped Rs 139 a quintal to Rs 13,434. The decline in other contracts except August was from Rs 47 to Rs 169 a quintal. August increased by Rs 74 a quintal.

The total turnover on NCDEX increased by 461 tonnes to 19,259 tonnes, while on NMCE it fell by 143 tonnes to 1,420 tonnes. The total open interest on NCDEX dropped by 736 tonnes to 26,815 tonnes. June position fell by 518 tonnes to 7,860 tonnes, while July fell by 406 tonnes to 11,980 tonnes. However, August improved by 69 tonnes to 4,885 tonnes. Spot prices in tandem with the downward trend in the futures fell by Rs 100 a quintal on Friday to close at Rs 13,600 (un-garbled) and Rs 14,200 (MG 1).

Kochi tea auction sees mixed trend

Kochi: New flush from the monsoons has raised arrivals to the Kochi tea auction with the quantum of dust growing to 13,24,000 kg although leaf arrivals declined to 2,58,000 kg. Prices of CTC teas fell by Rs 2 to 3. CTC teas below Rs 50 witnessed good enquiry from exporters. Orthodox high grown dust remained steady. Best CTC varieties quoted between Rs 56 and Rs 65, medium CTC ranged Rs 50- 54, while below medium was at Rs 38-40. High grown BOPD quoted Rs 116, medium BOPD was at Rs 45- 46 and secondaries fetched Rs 36 - 40.

Lower arrivals seem to have picked up the leaf tea market where high grown orthodox grades were dearer by Rs 2-3 following quality. Mediums also saw firm markets, while the price of secondary orthodox eased. Orthodox grades saw good enquiry from exporters to CIS countries. Best Nilgiri varieties fetched Rs 67 - 87, medium orthodox was at Rs 48 - 75 while plain orthodox was at Rs 42 - 44. Best CTC leaf fetched Rs 50 - 55 and medium CTC ranged at Rs 43 - 45.

Port restricts on Sri Lanka quota tea imports off

New Delhi: The Finance Ministry has done away with port curbs on imports of quota tea from Sri Lanka at a concessional rate under the Indo-Sri Lanka free trade agreement (FTA). Under the FTA, up to 15 million kg of tea from Sri Lanka can be imported yearly into India at a concessional import duty of 7.5 per cent. Currently, basic Customs duty on tea is 100 per cent and that on instant tea is 30 per cent The restrictions were placed under the FTA, which was signed in 1998, to assuage the concerns of the domestic tea growers, especially those from South India, who apprehended large-scale imports from Sri Lanka, affecting their interests. During negotiations with India, Sri Lanka had submitted that it was not able to use the annual tariff rate quota of 15 million kg due to import conditions such as port restrictions. Only 0.11 million kg valued at Rs 1.90 crore were imported during January-December 2005 against 0.16 million valued at Rs 1.86 crore during the corresponding period in 2004. During January-November 2006, import of tea from Sri Lanka under the FTA totaled to only 0.060 million kg against 0.094 million kg during the corresponding period of 2005. Tea imports into the country moved up 19.25 per cent during April-January 2006-07 to $24.82 million, compared to $20.81 million in the corresponding previous period. In value terms, tea totaled for 0.02 per cent of the country's total imports during the period.

MMTC Ltd to float tender for 50,000 tonnes wheat import

Barely a week after the trashing of a 10-lakh tonne (lt) wheat import tender by the State Trading Corporation of India (STC), it is the turn of the other parastatal, MMTC Ltd, to float a tender for 50,000 tonnes. Unlike STC, which was purchasing on behalf of the Food Corporation of India (STC), MMTC's tender is a purely commercial transaction for supply of wheat to domestic roller flour mills. The tender, which opens on June 19 with bids valid till June 29, gives MMTC the option to buy an additional 50,000 tonnes. Meanwhile, it is learnt that the US commodity giant, Cargill, has booked at least one vessel of 35,000-45,000 tonnes of Black Sea origin wheat for delivery in Chennai and Tuticorin ports in September. STC tender was floated very late in end-April, when there was very little wheat in the world market. Cargill's contract was around February and was, in fact, done in Indian rupees. Since the dollar was then Rs 44.50-45 and is now Rs 40.50, the landed price for the contract would currently be about $ 259 per tonne.During 2006-07, the country imported roughly 63 lt of wheat, including 55 lt on Government account and the rest by the private trade. In the current fiscal, the Government is still to import any grain, while the private trade has done about 30,000-40,000 tonnes mainly from Pakistan.

Oilmeal Exports Decline 50 pc in May

Mumbai: Oilmeals export fell in May sharply. Shipments of various oilseed extractions amounted 2.3 lakh tonnes (lt), almost half of 4.4 lt shipped out in April. Exports include mainly 1.1 lt of soyabean meal, 74,000 tonnes of rapeseed meal and 30,700 tonnes of castor meal. In the first two months of the current fiscal, oilmeal shipments aggregated 6.6 lt unchanged from the same period last year. Total exports of oilmeals during fiscal 2006-07 were a record 52 lt. In recent weeks, a firming rupee too has blunted the competitive edge of oilmeal exports. When seen on an oil year basis (November 2006 onwards), oilmeal exports totalled 38.7 lt till May compared to 35.8 lt during the first seven months of 2005-06. Soyameal remains to command the export basket with 28.3 lt followed by rapeseed meal at 6.3 lt.

Rubber Price Increases

Kottayam: Spot rubber rates improved on June 6. Sellers withdrew while covering groups turned active above Rs 85 level, which offered a short-term technical support to the market. RSS 4 improved by 25 paise to Rs 85.75 a kg at Kottayam but the grade continued to rule flat at Rs 85.50 a kg at Kochi. The rubber futures completed almost steady quoting the June contract for RSS 4 at Rs 85.79 (85.76) a kg on MCX. The June contract for the grade was quoted at Rs 86.70 (86.76), July at Rs 88.23 (88.44), August at Rs 88.40 (88.44) and September contract at Rs 86.40 (86.28) per kg on NMCE. The July futures for RSS 3 fell to 283.6 Yen (Rs 94.67) from 285.5 Yen a kg at TOCOM. The grade (spot) decline to Rs 95.72 from Rs 96.15 a kg at Bangkok.

Erratic Monsoon Decreases Cardamom Crop Production

Kochi: Erratic southwest monsoon this year may delay the next cardamom crop apart from decreasing the output. The plantations in Kerala's Idukki district where much of the crop in the country is cultivated are in a bad shape due to protracted dry spell. The situation has been further aggravated with insufficient rains so far this year making the revival of the plants almost unlikely mainly in the un-irrigated areas. After May 28, there hasn't been any showers and this has affected the flowering and pollination. Hence, given the present unfavourable weather conditions, harvest in the next season would be delayed and the first crop might arrive only by August third week.

According to the Spices Board, the total area under cardamom in the country in 2003-04 was 73,237 hectares and of which the yield area was at 55,221 hectares. Kerala topped with 41,332 ha (with 30,991 ha yielding area) followed by Karnataka with 26,838 ha (20,510 ha) and Tamil Nadu 5,067 ha (3,720 ha). The yield per ha in the three States was very low with 286 kg, 85 kg and 259 kg respectively. The total production during the current season, which has come to an end, is pegged at around 11,000 tonnes from that of last season (Aug - July) provisionally put at 12,540 tonnes.

Coimbatore Tea Auction Witnesses Fair Demand

Coimbatore: The volumes on offer at the weekly tea auction conducted at the Tea Trade Association of Coimbatore moved up from just over four lakh kg the previous week to 6.20 lakh kg, with leaf grades accounting for 2.10 lakh kg. The orthodox leaf grades reported fair demand. Internal enquiry was limited to whole leaf grades and prices slipped by Rs 2-3 a kg with some withdrawals. HLL operated on medium quality CTC leaf grades selectively. Exporters were active on larger, bolder grades and larger brokens. Internal demand was selective. There was fair demand for CTC dust at lower levels. High-priced, good liquoring sorts were irregular, quoting easier by Re 1-Rs 2 with some withdrawals.

Higher Mango Dispatch To North Despite Decline In Production

Hyderabad: Despite a vast decline in mango output this year, farmers and traders in Krishna district are sending more mangoes to markets in the North than last year. Using the special trains in Vijayawada division of South Central Railway (SCR), the farmers have so far been able to send 31,330 tonnes in 30 rakes against a total of 31,850 tonnes from 30 rakes in 2006-07. The division mulls to operate four-five rakes more this season to help the farmers and traders reach out the northern market where there is great demand for Banginapally variety. It's not just mango farmers that are benefited; the division too earned good revenues out of this business. The year 2003-04 registered highest loading of 48,658 tonnes from 50 rakes, followed by 38,255 tonnes from 39 rakes in 2005-06. The SCR charges only 50 per cent of the normal freight charges for mangoes as they come under the bracket of perishable products. As a result, the size of revenues might not cross Rs 5.4 crore earned by the division last year from mango business.

Tea Garden Unions Files PIL In SC

Kolkata: Five unions of tea garden workers in several States have tied up with IUF, the international union of food and plantation workers, and registered a PIL in Supreme Court demanding, among other things, immediate payment of statutory dues to those employed in various tea gardens either sick, closed or mismanaged. Several State Governments, two employers' associations, namely, ITA and Upasi, and Tea Board, among others, have been respondents. The figure at the all-India level therefore would be staggering. The crisis facing the tea garden workers has come up for a review during the three-day conference currently being held here under the aegis of IUF. More than 40 representatives of various unions of tea workers from six States, namely, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Tripura are attending the conference. The IUF office-bearers felt that workers of the closed gardens should be encouraged to form co-operatives and run them. The operation management committees (OMCs) running many gardens in the northern part of West Bengal was not necessarily the answer to the present crisis as not all the OMCs were running well.

Wheat Procurement Touches 106.67 Lt

New Delhi: Wheat procurement by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and State agencies has reached 106.67 lakh tonnes (lt) during the current 2007-08 rabi marketing season (April-June) as on June 3. Of the 106.67 lt secured for the Central pool, Punjab has contributed 65.55 lt, followed by Haryana (33.26 lt), Uttar Pradesh (3.85 lt), Rajasthan (3.49 lt), Madhya Pradesh (49,825 tonnes), Uttaranchal (1,619 tonnes), Bihar (980 tonnes) and Delhi (834 tonnes). In addition, Punjab has bought 6.04 lt on its own account for a separate Atta Dal scheme introduced by the Parkash Singh Badal Government.
Over the last couple of weeks, Government agencies have managed to buy almost 10 lt of additional wheat, most of this a result of the floating of an import tender by the State Trading Corporation (STC). With the agencies still managing to procure 80,000-90,000 tonnes on a daily basis, there is every likelihood of total purchases crossing 115 lt by the end of the season. With opening stocks of 45.63 lt as on April 1 and hoped procurement of 115 lt, there would be about 160 lt of wheat in the Central pool. Assuming a monthly offtake of 10 lt, there would be 40 lt of opening stocks for the next season, which meets the minimum buffer norm for that date. But the Government may still go ahead with import of about 20 lt just to play it safe.

Tea Market Continues To Be Buoyant

Kolkata: Markets continued to be optimistic with prices ruling steady to dearer for all CTC and dust varieties in the three North Indian auction centres. Darjeeling teas met with good demand, with prices being irregular following quality. The prices ruled firm to dearer. The climatic condition in the last month was not conducive to good crop, with the result the production for May. The market in Colombo continued to see active demand with support from the buyers for Iran, CIS countries and Dubai.

Pepper Future Sees High Fluctuation

Kochi: Pepper futures witnessed high variations last week and fell. A sharp fall was seen in the turnover on NCDEX and NMCE. On NCDEX, it fell by 77,206 tonnes to 1,41,349 tonnes, while on NMCE, it declined by 6,621 tonnes to 13,198 tonnes. Total open interest moved up by 1,465 tonnes on NCDEX to 26,943 tonnes. June position down by 1,847 tonnes to 10,215 tonnes, while July and August increased by 1,347 tonnes and 1,819 tonnes respectively to 10,542 tonnes and 4,275 tonnes. Spot prices declined by Rs 100 a quintal to Rs 13,700 (un-garbled) and Rs 14,300 (MG 1) at Saturday close. The downward trend in the futures market in India is closely watched by Brazil and Vietnam. If the revised quantity restriction is enforced the investing community might get out of the trade.
According to International Pepper Community (IPC) report for the week ended June 1, the world pepper market was quiet. Prices at most origins fell slightly with limited activity. At Kochi, the price of un-garbled black pepper declined to Rs 13,700 a quintal from Rs 14,300 at the last week's close. At Kuching, local prices reduced further from 10,300 Malaysian ringgit (MYR) a tonne to MYR 10,170. In Lampung, the market continued to be very quiet and local prices delined by around 4 per cent.

Rubber Price Declines

Kottayam: Spot rubber decline further on June 2. Sheet rubber declined to Rs 86 from Rs 86.75 a kg both at Kottayam and Kochi. On the contrary, rubber futures displayed an improvement on NMCE. The June contract firmed up to Rs. 87.40 (86.63), July to Rs 88.13 (87.64), August to Rs 87.40 (87.22) and September to Rs 84.99 (84.82) per kg for RSS 4. The volumes amounted 1,225 (1,368) tonnes. Meanwhile the June contract weakened Rs 86.75 (87.43) a kg on MCX. Spot prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 86 (86.75); RSS-5: 84.50 (85.50); ungraded: 83 (84.50); ISNR 20: 84 (85.25) and latex 60 per cent: 61.05 (61.05).

Darmona Tea Brings Highest Bid At Rs 104/Kg

Coonoor: For the third consecutive week, the Aravenu-based Darmona Estate stood in limelight at the auctions of the Coonoor Tea Trade Association (CTTA) when its RD grade of the CTC teas, auctioned by J. Thomas and Co, continued to bring over Rs 100 a kg. The highest bid for the Darmona tea this week was Rs 104. The previous high was for Darmona's tea of last week at Rs 108. Darmona beat several brands of orthodox teas belying the general contention that the CTC teas fetch lower prices than the orthodox teas. Kannavarai is the only other bought-leaf factory to fetch Rs 80 a kg for the CTC teas. In the Rs 75-79 band, Shanthi Supreme, Professor, Green View and Warwick got Rs 77, Dhavala Rs 76 and Selva Ganapathy Rs 75.

Pepper Futures Fall

Kochi: Pepper fell marginally on Jun 1, following reports of fall in Vietnam prices despite some buying support. Processors were actively buying un-garbled at Rs 13,700 - 14,000 a quintal for processing. Strengthening of rupee on June 1, against dollar pushed up the Indian parity. Vietnam FAQ 500 GL was reportedly down by $200 a tonne to $3,550 (f.o.b.), while 550 GL was being offered at $3,770 a tonne (f.o.b.). Indonesia has quoted L Asta at $3,900 a tonne (f.o.b.). Indian parity was at $3,850 - $3,900 a tonne (c&f). June contract on NCDEX declined by Rs 115 a quintal to Rs 13,904. The drop in other contracts hope November was from Rs 5 to Rs 90 a quintal. November was up by Rs 29 a quintal.On NMCE, June contract declined by Rs 31 to Rs 13,678. July declined by Rs 50. All other contracts moved up by Rs 48 to Rs 187 a quintal.

Rubber Price Declines

Kottayam: Physical rubber prices fell on June 1. Sheet rubber RSS 4 declined to Rs 86.75 from Rs 87.50 and Rs 87.25 a kg respectively at Kottayam and Kochi. The rubber futures weakened further on NMCE. The June contract was quoted at Rs 86.74 (87.74), July at Rs 87.74 (88.56), August at Rs 87.30 (87.97) and September at Rs 84.90 (85.40) per kg for RSS 4. The July contract finished at Rs 88.55 (88.32) a kg on MCX. Spot prices were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 86.75 (87.50); RSS-5: 85.50 (86.50); ungraded: 84.50 (85.50); ISNR 20: 85.25 (86.25) and latex 60 per cent: 61.05 (62.10).

Four Tea Estates Resumed After 5Yrs

Thekkady: The Union Minister of State for Commerce, Mr Jairam Ramesh, reopened four of the nine tea estates of the Ram Bahadur Thakur Group. The estates had been shut down for the last five years. After five years of suicides, starvation and strife, today is the day of deliverance for the 1,580 workers and their families of these estates. As on date, the group has accumulated losses of Rs 18 crore. Four of the nine RBT estates comprising 917 hectares are now slated to resume operations on June 25. The other five estates are to be opened shortly. Meanwhile, the MMJ Group in Kerala is slated to reopen its three tea estates on June 11. The RBT revival plan was chalked out after two days of hectic negotiations between the management, trade unions and political representatives. All the eleven trade unions and the management are firm in their commitment to revive these plantations. They stand as one in requesting the State Government in permitting us to convert five per cent of the land for tourism, spices and other horticulture crops. That will help us tide over ups and downs of the tea industry. RBT accounts for nine of the 17 closed estates in the State and close to half the total area.

Tea Board Asked To Make Quality-Checking Instrument Available To Industry

Coimbatore: The United Planters Association of Southern India (Upasi) has asked the Tea Board and the National Tea Research Foundation (NTRF) to make the tea quality monitoring instrument `E-nose' available to the industry at the earliest. The association, which was contemplating to import the electronic tongue to objectively measure the quality parameters of tea, is convinced that the electronic nose developed indigenously by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) would be a boon to tea factories. An odour stimulus would generate a characteristic fingerprint from the array of sensors. Patterns or fingerprints from known odours could be easily identified and classified as the system is capable of sensing volatile tea compounds and predicting scores with a high degree of accuracy.Having made some headway on the electronic nose, Upasi is sure that CDAC would be able to develop the electronic tongue as well.