Amritsar: Amritsar’s iconic papad-wariyan industry is reeling under a fresh crisis as disruptions in hing imports from Iran and Afghanistan have sent prices soaring, squeezing manufacturers and consumers alike.The shortage of hing — an essential ingredient in the preparation of papad and lentil dumplings — has pushed prices up by 5% to 15% per kg in recent months.A hing trader, Vipul Nevatia, said imports have nearly come to a halt following the escalation involving the US, Israel and Iran. “The supply chain has been severely hit, and prices have been rising steadily since,” he said.Hing, a gum resin derived from the roots of ‘Ferula’ plants native to Iran, is key to enhancing the flavour of traditional Punjabi and Marwari (Rajasthan) dishes. With supply tightening, its cost in the local market has surged significantly, putting pressure on small-scale manufacturers.According to reports, India is one of the largest consumers of hing, importing an estimated 1,200–1,500 tonnes annually, primarily from Iran and Afghanistan. The domestic hing market is valued at around Rs 600–800 crore. Punjab accounts for a modest but significant share due to its strong food processing and papad-wariyan industry, with annual consumption estimated at 40–60 tonnes.Avtar Singh, a papad-wariyan manufacturer, said the industry anticipated such a scenario. “We feared a supply disruption and price escalation, and that is exactly what has happened. Our products are in high demand among tourists visiting Amritsar from across the world, but rising input costs are now affecting margins,” he explained. He said Amritsar is a key hub for traditional food products, with dozens of small and medium manufacturers dependent on steady hing supplies. Traders also warn of adulteration in the market. Nevatia pointed out that genuine Iranian hing costs nearly Rs 30,000 per kg, while counterfeit variants — often made from maida mixed with artificial hing essence — are being sold at few hundred rupees per kg. MSID:: 129698591 413 |
