Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal

Medinipur Paddy (Local Rice)

Paschim Medinipur is one of West Bengal's core rice-growing districts, described as India's rice bowl in miniature, with the paddy fields of Ghatal and Chandrakona blocks feeding millions of people. The district is predominantly agricultural, with surplus production of paddy, vegetables and potato. Buyers get the locally grown, seasonal rice that forms the staple of the district and the wider Bengali diet.

Typical price: ₹35-80 per kg

Buying tip: Buy in-season paddy or freshly milled rice from the local haat and mandi in Ghatal or Chandrakona for the best price and freshness. Seasonal (new crop) rice is the local preference for everyday cooking.