Title: Ministry of Consumer Welfare to Release 3 Lakh Metric Tonnes of Onion Stocks
Subtitle: Measures taken to ensure availability of affordable onions for consumers
New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Consumer Welfare, Food, and Public Distribution has recently announced its decision to release 3 lakh metric tonnes of onion stocks this year. The move comes as part of the government’s efforts to ensure the availability of affordable onions for the general public.
In a press release issued by the Central Department of Consumer Affairs, it was revealed that the decision to release the onion stocks was made after consultations with the National Federation of Agriculture (NAFED) and the National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF). Secretary of the department, Rohit Kumar Singh, finalized the guidelines for the release on August 10.
The release of onion stocks will primarily target major markets in states where the retail price of onions exceeds the national average. In addition to traditional methods of distribution, such as e-auctioning, the ministry is exploring the possibility of retailing onions on e-commerce platforms. This innovative approach aims to make onions more accessible and affordable for consumers.
To date, a total of 3 lakh metric tonnes of onions have been procured for distribution. However, the ministry is open to increasing the procurement further, depending on the demand. In June and July, NAFED and NCCF, two central coordinating agencies, procured 1.50 lakh metric tonnes of onions each from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
Notably, the stock levels of onions have tripled over the past four years, from 1 lakh metric tonnes in 2020-21 to the current 3 lakh metric tonnes. The ministry emphasizes the crucial role that onion stock levels play in maintaining price stability and ensuring the availability of affordable onions for consumers.
With the measures taken by the Union Ministry of Consumer Welfare, Food, and Public Distribution, consumers can look forward to a steady supply of onions at reasonable prices. The government’s commitment to addressing the issue of onion prices reflects its dedication to consumer welfare and satisfaction.