TNN
PUNE, INDIA, May 7, 2011 (TNN): The price of betel leaves is going through the roof. A box of 3,000 leaves, which would usually be sold for US$8.90, is now being sold at $22.22. Besides being the most important ingredient of the humble paan, betel leaves are an inseparable part of most Hindu rituals and poojas.
The betel leaf still retains its loyal customers, thanks to its traditional value, digestive properties and high calcium content. The sudden price rise can be attributed to reduced supply from Andhra Pradesh, which is a major supplier.
A senior official at the city-based agriculture produce market committee said, “Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Orissa are major producers of betel leaves. The erratic rain in December followed by cold wave damaged the plant and affected production. Whatever could be salvaged was transported to metros first, where sellers get higher returns. This created a shortage is smaller cities.