Maharashtra Onion Farmers Demand Transparent Procurement and Immediate Relief

The Maharashtra State Onion Growers Association has raised a call for full transparency in the onion procurement process managed by government entities like NAFED and NCCF. The association is pressing for immediate compensation for farmers who have incurred losses by selling onions below cost for several months.

Bharat Dighole, the association's founder-president, questioned the extent of procurement by NAFED from key onion-producing districts. The organisation is seeking a daily public disclosure of procurement data, including the amounts purchased and parties involved, to ensure accountability.

The association expressed concerns regarding the reach of procurement operations and suggested that only a few benefited from government actions. It demanded that daily procurement details, such as quantity and farmer benefits, be published online by NAFED and NCCF to promote transparency.

Additionally, the association is calling for a stable pricing mechanism to prevent the recurring financial distress of onion growers, citing harmful impacts of sudden policy shifts like export bans. They advocate for a formal meeting with key ministers and propose establishing a dedicated Onion Corporation to manage the industry comprehensively.

In the absence of action, the association warned of potential escalations in protests if farmers' grievances are not addressed, underlying the critical need for systemic reform and support.

(With inputs from agencies.)