Onion prices ease as kharif acreage rises about 5%: Govt
Why in the news
On 7 October 2026, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said onion is available at affordable prices, helped by higher kharif sowing and release of buffer stock.
Key facts
- Kharif acreage: about 5% above last year’s already strong level.
- Main kharif producing States include Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan.
- Mandi prices: Maharashtra prices dropped nearly 13% between 16 September and 3 October 2026.
- Buffer disposal: more than 2 lakh quintals released through 8 Kanda Express trains and 467 trucks, reaching 123 cities.
- Retail prices: 126 cities saw declines of ₹1-21 per kg over two weeks.
- Prices eased in States such as Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal.
- More rail movements are planned for the festive season.
| Date (2026) | Maharashtra mandi price |
|---|---|
| 16 September | ₹4,030 per quintal |
| 3 October | ₹3,475 per quintal |
About the onion buffer
The Centre holds an onion buffer for price stabilisation and releases it in consuming cities to cool prices. Bulk movement by Kanda Express trains, backed by trucks, carries large volumes to distant markets; more such rakes are planned for the festive season.
Exam angle
- Nodal ministry: Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
- Kanda Express – trains used to move buffer onion.
- Note the figures: 13% mandi fall, 8 trains, 467 trucks, 123 cities.