New Delhi, Mar 27 (KNN) The Central Government has announced plans to directly procure 5 lakh tonnes of onions from farmers starting April 1st, 2024. 

This move aims to support farmers and ensure they receive fair prices, despite the recent export ban on onions.

Addressing the media, Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Singh and Special Secretary Nidhi Khare stated that this year's procurement would be carried out in a single tranche, unlike previous years when purchases were made in batches, reported businessline.

"Earlier, the purchases were announced in tranches. This year, it is at one go, and if needed, more onions will be purchased so that farmers are not distressed," Singh said.

The officials revealed that farmers in Lasalgaon, Maharashtra, India's largest onion trading hub, are currently receiving Rs 14 per kilogram, a significant improvement from Rs 8 per kilogram a year ago. 

However, the government decided to intervene to ensure farmers do not feel they are selling at a loss.

"The Government never purchased onions at below cost, and last Rabi season, onions were bought at an average of Rs 17 per kilogram," Singh added.

During the 2023-24 season (April-March), the government procured 7 lakh tonnes of onions, including 5 lakh tonnes from the Rabi crop. 

Only about 25,000 tonnes remain in the buffer stock, while the remaining quantity has been sold.

The officials stated that the government would sell the procured onions in the wholesale market at prevailing rates, but a decision on retail sales is yet to be made.

(KNN Bureau)