Barley prices dropped by Rs 17 to to Rs 1,358 per quintal in futures trade on Thursday as speculators reduced their positions on the back of rising inventories.
Market analysts said heavy supply of new crops in the market amid slack demand largely put weight on futures price of barley.
At the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange, barley for August delivery slid by Rs 17, or 1.24 per cent, to Rs 1,358 per quintal, with an open interest of 200 lots.
Likewise, the commodity for July delivery slipped by Rs 13.80, or 1.01 per cent, to Rs 1,346 per quintal, with a trade volume of 5,610 lots.
Barley prices for delivery in June eased by Rs 2.40, or 0.18 per cent, to Rs 1,345 per quintal, with a business turnover of 6,230 lots.