North News
New Delhi, September 14
The Consumer Affairs Ministry on Saturday announced that the subsidised retail sale of onions, priced at Rs 35 per kg through mobile vans since September 5, has led to significant price drops in major cities. In Delhi, the price fell from Rs 60 to Rs 55 per kg, while in Mumbai, it decreased from Rs 61 to Rs 56 per kg. Chennai saw a reduction from Rs 65 to Rs 58 per kg.
Retail sales began through NCCF and NAFED mobile vans and outlets in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, and were soon extended to other key locations such as Chennai, Kolkata, Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati. The government has responded to rising demand by expanding both quantity and distribution channels. Retail sales will now include e-commerce platforms, Kendriya Bhandar, and SAFAL outlets, while bulk sales strategies are being adopted to ensure onions are available at affordable prices, the Ministry said.
Wholesale disposal has already started in Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, and will soon expand to Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kolkata, eventually reaching all state capitals. This initiative, involving road and rail transport, aims to improve logistical efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses.
Giving details, the Ministry said the Department of Consumer Affairs is collaborating with state governments to ensure a steady supply based on supply-demand dynamics and price trends. The government’s goal is to provide affordable onions to every household across the country. They will continue to monitor onion prices closely and take proactive measures to prevent further price hikes. With enhanced retail and bulk sale strategies, a buffer stock of 4.7 LMT of onions, and increased kharif sowing, prices are expected to remain stable in the coming months.
