BATHINDA, June 12 -- A record dip in the prices of toori (chopped wheat straw), which is used as animal fodder, due to lesser demand in the dairy sector this year has left the wheat growers in a fix.

Traders say this year, rates in several parts of the state remained stagnant at Rs.130- Rs.180 per quintal, whereas in 2024, its rates touched Rs.500 per quintal.

Experts warned that if the trend continues, it may push the farmers to burn the wheat residue as they will be left with no option for the disposal of the straw.

Stakeholders attribute a sharp decline in demand to the use of silage, a processed and nutritious cattle feed prepared from maize and other ingredients, by the dairy sector, as well as the new practice of feeding rice str...