Assessing the Onion Allium Ailment in Maharashtra and Karnataka

A pivotal saga unfolds as a central team, comprising officials from the Union Agriculture Ministry and Consumer Affairs Ministry, embarks on a mission to assess the onion situation in Maharashtra and Karnataka. The quest, scheduled from November 6 to 10, seeks to unravel the mysteries surrounding the kharif onion crop, projected yields, and market dynamics, all contributing to the current price turbulence.

This investigative journey takes center stage due to the soaring onion prices that have gripped various regions, fueled by looming anticipation of a dwindling onion output. As the central team steps onto the battlefield, its mission encompasses an evaluation of the ongoing late kharif onion sowing while also shining a light on the status of Rabi-grown onions in these two states. The repercussions of their findings could significantly influence policy measures, steering the onion industry on a new course.

A noteworthy transition in the onion landscape is the recent introduction of a minimum export price (MEP), replacing the previous export duty. However, should the committee, armed with the central team’s findings, deem the situation grave, it might decree a complete export embargo. The outcome of this mission holds the power to reshape the onion trade.

The central team’s journey will lead them through the heartland of onion production, encompassing major production clusters, primary onion markets, and storage facilities. Their interactions with various stakeholders, including officers from the agriculture and horticulture departments, will provide a comprehensive perspective on the onion riddle. In Maharashtra, the team’s exploration spans Nashik, Ahmednagar, and Pune districts from November 6 to 8, while Karnataka awaits their scrutiny in Bagalkote and Gadag from November 8 to 10.

Beyond these efforts, the Hyderabad Agricultural Cooperatives Association extends the lifeline further, reaching out to Telangana and other southern states. Previously, limited sales were facilitated through cooperatives NCCF and Nafed via outlets and mobile vans. Nafed’s network of retail points spans 55 cities across 21 states, amounting to 329 retail points, while NCCF has established 457 retail points in 54 cities across 20 states.

The all-India average price of onions registers a 1% increase, with retail prices also escalating. In many states, the average price has surged between 80% and 100% in just a month. However, wholesale onion prices have dropped, instilling hope that retail prices will follow suit.

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