The recent approval for Gujarat to export white onions by the Indian government has led to dissatisfaction among onion farmers in Maharashtra, especially in Nashik. These farmers are currently facing challenges such as low market rates and a ban on onion exports. Since December 2023, the prohibition on exporting onions has caused significant financial losses for Maharashtra's onion cultivators, forcing them to sell their produce at reduced prices. In Nashik's APMC markets, the average selling price for onions per 100 kg is between Rs 1,100 and 1,300, a rate that farmers find inadequate.
The decision to allow Gujarat to export 2000 tons of white onions has intensified the difficulties for Maharashtra's farmers. This decision by the Department of Commerce Directorate General of Foreign Trade has been sharply criticized by the President of the Maharashtra State Onion Farmer Association, Bharat Dighole. He labeled it as an unfair move against Maharashtra farmers, arguing that it would further lower their market rates internationally. Maharashtra is known for its red onion production, with Nashik being a key cultivation area.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: lokmattimes.com