Government Procurements To Ensure Ample Supply
In a significant move, the Government of India has successfully acquired a substantial 0.30 Million tonnes of onion, marking a notable 20% increment compared to the previous year’s strategic reserve. Consumer Affairs Secretary, Rohit Kumar Singh, disclosed that the administration is also collaborating with the esteemed Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to evaluate the efficacy of irradiating onions, using cutting-edge technology, in order to prolong their shelf life.
During the fiscal year 2022-23, the government maintained a buffer stock of 0.25 Million tonnes of onions. The buffer stock, established under the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF), acts as a safeguard against potential emergencies, particularly when prices spike significantly during periods of limited supply.
In light of the upcoming festival season, Singh informed PTI, “To adequately address any unforeseen circumstances, this year the government has bolstered the buffer stock to an impressive 0.30 Million tonnes. We are confident that there will be no scarcity of onions.” The onions procured for the reserve are sourced from the recently concluded Rabi season, while the sowing of Kharif onions is presently underway, with their arrival expected to commence in October.
Impact of Rabi Crop and Market Prices
Singh further explained, “Traditionally, onion prices experience a temporary surge in retail markets for approximately 20 days until the arrival of the fresh Kharif crop. However, this time we anticipate no such issues.” Meanwhile, in collaboration with the Department of Atomic Energy and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs is conducting trials to evaluate a technology aimed at preserving onions during this interim period.
“As part of a pilot initiative, we are currently experimenting with the irradiation of 150 Metric tonnes of onions using gamma radiation from Cobalt-60 in Lasalgaon, Maharashtra. This pioneering method is expected to significantly enhance the onions’ shelf life,” stated Singh.
Notably, Rabi onions, harvested from April to June, constitute 65% of India’s onion production and cater to consumer demand until the Kharif crop is harvested in October and November. According to government data, the average retail price of onions across the country on July 15 stood at USD 0,32 per kg, with a maximum price of USD 79.25 per quintal and a minimum price of USD 0,12 per kg.
Conclusion
It appears that the government has taken measures to procure a significant amount of onions for the buffer stock, surpassing the previous year’s acquisition. Additionally, efforts are being made to extend the shelf life of onions through the use of irradiation technology. This reflects a proactive approach to address potential scarcity during lean supply seasons. This significant increase in onion reserves demonstrates the government’s commitment to stabilize prices and meet consumer demand. Considering these developments, it suggests that there is a sufficient supply of onions in the market. Therefore one can procure onion as per the need.