Maharashtra Fights for Fair Onion Prices: Minister Seeks Doubling Export Subsidy

In an effort to stabilize onion prices and support cultivators, Maharashtra's Marketing Minister Jaykumar Rawal revealed that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has requested the Centre to double the subsidy on onion exports. This move aims to ensure market stability following a surge in onion production by 55 lakh metric tonnes.

The push for a subsidy increase was discussed in a review meeting involving Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne, Agricultural Prices Commission chief Pasha Patel, and senior legislators and officials from NAFED and NCCF. Rawal emphasized the necessity of promoting exports and the positive response from the Centre regarding the proposal.

Besides doubling the export subsidy, Rawal outlined comprehensive strategies including activating vigilance committees to prevent hoarding and rumors, launching solar-based dehydration projects, and engaging agricultural produce market committees to protect farmers' interests.