Maharashtra onion farmers are calling for a minimum procurement price of Rs 3,000 per quintal, arguing that the current rates offered by NAFED and NCCF are inadequate. The current procurement price of around Rs 1,580 per quintal is below the average production cost of Rs 1,800 per quintal, leading to financial losses for farmers.
Procurement Norms Relaxed
The Indian government has eased onion procurement rules, expanding the acceptable size range from 35-70 mm and relaxing standards on blemishes and skin defects. However, farmers argue that these changes do not address the core issue of low prices.
"Norms have been relaxed, but farmers are still incurring losses. The real question is when onion prices will increase," said Jaydeep Bhadane, president of the Maharashtra State Onion Growers Association in Nashik.
Financial Distress Among Farmers
Farmers are selling onions below production costs, leading to significant financial distress. Bharat Dighole, association president, emphasized that the rates offered by central procurement agencies exacerbate the farmers' financial woes. The association is also advocating for a Rs 1,500 per quintal subsidy for those who sold onions at low prices over the past months.
Calls for Transparency and Fair Pricing
The farmers' association is demanding more transparency in procurement processes, urging NAFED and NCCF to publish daily procurement lists. They also recommend that procurement be conducted through Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) to ensure fair pricing.
| Procurement Price | Production Cost | Demand Price |
|---|---|---|
| Rs 1,580/quintal | Rs 1,800/quintal | Rs 3,000/quintal |
Outlook and Future Actions
The Maharashtra government has waived APMC fees on onion procurement to reduce costs, but farmers insist that without increased procurement prices, these measures will primarily benefit procurement agencies. The situation remains tense as farmers await further government action to address their pricing demands.
