The recent surge in onion prices has caused concerns for the ruling alliance in Maharashtra, especially with the upcoming Assembly polls. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has taken action against hoarders to address this issue, invoking the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and Prevention of Black Marketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act, 1980.
The government has observed that some traders are hoarding onions beyond the permissible limits, leading to the price hike. Retailers are allowed to stock up to two tonnes, while wholesale traders can keep up to 25 tonnes. To combat this, the Food and Civil Supplies Department has been instructed to take action against such hoarders.
In response to the rising prices, the state government has been providing onion farmers with a grant of Rs 350 per quintal, with a total disbursement of Rs 851 crore so far. The current retail price of onions ranges from Rs 80 to Rs 100 per kg, attributing the hike to a demand-supply imbalance due to delayed new stock hitting the market.
Maharashtra, being the largest producer of onions in the country, has faced challenges in production due to the impact of October rains on the kharif crop. However, insiders anticipate that prices will stabilize in the coming weeks as harvesting resumes and normal supplies are restored.
It is noteworthy that in the Lok Sabha elections, traders and farmers protested against the export ban on onions, leading to its removal. This time, the focus is on providing relief to consumers before the Assembly polls. While efforts are being made to stabilize prices, the government is urging people to report any instances of illegal hoarding to the district collector’s office.
As the state gears up for the upcoming polls, the crackdown on onion price hoarders is a significant move to address the concerns of the public and ensure fair pricing in the market. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing issue.
