Auctioneers J Thomas and Company in a market report said selected better Assams in the CTC category where total offering stood at 22,822, packages were sold around last levels while remainder were irregularly lower following quality.

Dooars met with easier trend as major blender remained little more active. Other packeteers remained quiet, but western India buyers were active for liquoring varieties.

Darjeeling categories met with good demand at lower levels. Selected better whole leaf grades sold well following competition from the continent and remainder eased in value following quality. Fannings were fully firm to occasionally dearer following keen competition from the traditional exporters and local dealers.

Well-made clean whole leaf and brokens in the orthodox section remained firm to dearer. Stalky varieties witnessed easier trend while nominalweight of fannings sold well at firm to dearer rates.

Fair enquiry from middle east with some continental support for the brighter liquoring teas was visible during the week even as CIS continued remained selective. Fannings were supported by the local traders.

In the dust category, good and better Assams were irregular around last levels, but mediums were easier in line with quality. Small quantity of Dooars on offer also witnessed an easier trend in the section. Following were the rates quoted in Calcutta auction this week:- CTC good Assam brokens Rs 105-115, fannings Rs 95-105, med Assam brokens Rs 90-100, fannings Rs 85-92, good Dooars brokens Rs 95-107, fannings Rs 85-92, NQ cachar brokens Rs 70-82, fannings Rs 71-73, Orthodox: good Assam whole leaf Rs 100-110, good Assam brokens Rs 90-110, good Assam Rs 105-115, med Assam Rs 84- 94, good Dooars Rs 90-95, cachar Rs 70-72.