Government Onion Subsidy Initiative Reduces Prices in Major Cities - The government's recent onion subsidy initiative, launched on September 5, has led to a drop in onion prices in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs reported on September 14 that the retail price of onions in Delhi has fallen to ₹55 per kg from Rs.60 per kg. In Mumbai, the price has decreased from Rs61 per kg to Rs56 per kg, while Chennai has seen a reduction from Rs65 per kg to Rs58 per kg.

Under this initiative, onions are being sold at a subsidized rate of Rs35 per kg through mobile vans and outlets of the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED). Initially launched in Delhi and Mumbai, the program has now expanded to other major cities, including Chennai, Kolkata, Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati.

To meet rising demand, the government plans to increase the quantity of subsidized onions and broaden distribution channels. This will include e-commerce platforms, Kendriya Bhandar outlets, and Mother Dairy's SAFAL stores. Additionally, a wholesale disposal strategy is underway in Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, with future plans to extend to Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and other state capitals.

To improve logistical efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses, a transport strategy involving both roadway and railway networks is being implemented. The Department of Consumer Affairs is collaborating with state governments to ensure that supply meets demand and price trends are managed effectively.

“The government expects onion prices to remain under control in the coming months,” said the Ministry. The government has a buffer stockpile of 4.7 lakh tonnes of onions and has increased the Kharif sowing area compared to last year. This combination of retail and bulk sale strategies is aimed at stabilizing prices and ensuring affordable onion availability.

India's Economy To Grow at 7.5% Amid Inflation Concerns: RBI

Onam Special Gift: Govt to Offer Rs 1,000 Each to Senior Citizens of Tribal Communities

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das Highlights Need to Complete Disinflation Efforts