Pune: As Mahashivratri approaches, the demand for sweet potatoes has surged, leading to increased arrivals at Pune's Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Gultekdi. Compared to the previous year, the supply has more than doubled. However, prices remain high due to strong demand for fasting foods.
In the wholesale market, locally grown sweet potatoes from Maharashtra are fetching ₹35-40 per kg, while those from Karnataka are priced lower at ₹20-22 per kg due to differences in quality and taste. In retail markets, sweet potatoes are being sold at ₹50-60 per kg.
On Sunday (February 23), approximately 2,500 sacks of sweet potatoes arrived at the market, with a minor supply also coming from Belgaum. Traders report that Maharashtra's local sweet potatoes, mainly from Karad and Malkapur, command a premium due to their sweet taste, small size, and attractive appearance. On the other hand, Karnataka’s sweet potatoes are larger and slightly bitter, leading to lower prices.
Pandharpur also contributes a variety of sweet potatoes, which have a whitish appearance and a milder taste. Transport costs have discouraged large-scale arrivals from Karnataka, keeping its supply limited.
"Sweet potatoes are widely consumed during fasting due to their nutritional benefits. Their high demand has contributed to increased arrivals in the market," said Amol Ghule, a senior trader at Market Yard.
Kaitha (Wood Apple) Arrivals Surge
Apart from sweet potatoes, another fasting essential—kaitha or kavath (wood apple)—has also seen a significant arrival at Pune APMC. Over the past four days, nearly 3,000 sacks of kaitha have reached the market from Purandar, Ahmednagar, Solapur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar districts. Additional supplies are expected over the next two days.
Kaitha prices are currently ranging from ₹400 to ₹700 per hundred pieces, depending on size.
Current Market Prices:
Sweet Potato (Per Kg):
Local (Maharashtra): ₹35-40
Karnataka: ₹20-22
Retail Price: ₹50-60
Kaitha (Per 100 Pieces): ₹400-700