Onion prices in Maharashtra drop by 30-40% this October
Onion prices in Maharashtra have dropped by 30-40% this October, leaving farmers in places like Nashik and Pune struggling.
The central government released buffer stocks through NAFED to keep onions affordable during the festival season, pushing prices down to ₹700-₹1,100 per quintal—much less than the ₹1,000-₹1,600 seen just two months ago.
Farmers feel government is putting urban interests 1st
While city shoppers pay around ₹30 per kg, farmers are getting only ₹10 per kg for their onions.
Many feel the government is putting urban interests first and warn they might show their frustration at the ballot box in the 2025 local elections, just like in last year's Lok Sabha polls.
State officials have asked central government to step in
State officials have asked the central government to step in and help stabilize prices.
The situation highlights the tough balance between keeping food affordable and making sure farmers can survive—something that's especially important with elections coming up soon.