In an unprecedented move, the government increased the amount of buffer onion to 5.00 lakh metric tons this year, after meeting its initial supply target of 3.00 lakh metric tons. In this regard, the Department of Consumers has ordered NCCF and NAFED to procure 1.00 lakh tonne each to meet the additional supply target along with the calibrated disposal of the stocks purchased at major consumer hubs.
Buffer clearance of onions has begun, targeting major markets in States and UT where retail prices are above the whole India average and/or are significantly higher than the previous month. To date, approximately 1,400 tons of buffer onions have been shipped to target markets and are continuously being released to increase availability.
In addition to the release in major markets, from tomorrow i.e. Monday 21 August 2023, the buffer onions are being made available to retail consumers at a subsidized rate of Rs.25/- per kg through NCCF’s outlets and mobile vans. Retail sales of onions will be suitably enhanced in the coming days by involving other agencies and e-commerce platforms.
The government’s multi-pronged measures for onions, such as stock sourcing, targeted stock release and export tariffs will benefit farmers and consumers alike, ensuring profitable prices for onion growers while ensuring continued availability to consumers at affordable prices.
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