Jaipur: The mustard market in Jaipur has shown a weak trend over the past week, with prices inching up marginally from ₹6,750 per quintal on February 17 to ₹6,800 on February 24, briefly touching ₹6,825. Market experts, however, caution that these small gains do not signal a sustained upward trend. Forecasts indicate that Jaipur mustard prices may fall further to ₹6,600 and could reach ₹6,400 per quintal by March 20. Bharatpur: Mustard prices in Bharatpur have also softened, declining to ₹6,250 after peaking at ₹6,400. Over the past month, prices in the region have fallen by around ₹700–750 per quintal, reflecting the market’s inability to sustain higher levels. Mustard Oil Impact: The decline in mustard oil prices is further affecting seed values. In Jaipur, mustard oil prices slipped from ₹1,445 to ₹1,375, currently trading at ₹1,340. Reduced buying interest from oil mills is putting additional pressure on the market. Meanwhile, mustard prices in Goyal (Kota) are ₹6,500, and soybean prices at Kirti have dropped to ₹5,500. Meal Market Trends: Mustard meal markets remain weak across major regions. Current rates are Jaipur ₹2,615 (down ₹10), Bharatpur ₹2,750 (down ₹50), Sumerpur ₹2,595 (down ₹56), and Kota ₹2,650 (down ₹25). In Agra, Saloni 60 kg packing remained steady at ₹2,911, while Sharda fell ₹20 to ₹2,911. Analysts note that while cattle feed demand remains normal, increasing supply is weighing on meal prices. Policy Support: The recently approved Bhavantar scheme has provided some psychological relief to farmers by ensuring that the difference between the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and mandi price is directly transferred via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). However, experts warn that policy support alone may not fully offset the pressure of rising arrivals. Supply Situation: Mustard arrivals nationwide have crossed 5.5 lakh bags, with nearly 5 lakh from the new crop. Favorable weather has accelerated harvesting, and arrivals are expected to increase further after Holi. Higher supply is likely to continue putting downward pressure on prices. Outlook: Experts suggest that a seasonal bottom may form between March 15–20, with Jaipur prices potentially finding support around ₹6,400 per quintal. Traders and farmers are advised to exercise caution and wait for lower levels before taking positions.