Pune: The Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Manchar witnessed a significant influx of onions on Sunday (March 9), with a total arrival of 35,000 sacks.
This surge in supply led to a sharp decline in market prices, dropping by ₹10 per kilogram compared to the previous week. Farmers who previously sold onions at ₹22 to ₹27 per kg were forced to accept rates as low as ₹13 to ₹17 per kg, resulting in widespread discontent among onion growers.
The onion auctions at Manchar APMC are conducted in the presence of farmers, ensuring transparency in pricing and transactions. Due to this system, produce from multiple talukas, including Ambegaon, Shirur, and Khed, is brought to the market. Many farmers, anticipating stable prices, sorted and transported their onions to the market, only to face unexpected losses due to the sudden price crash.
Ambegaon APMC Chairman Nilesh Thorat and trader Sagar Thorat highlighted the impact of the 20% export duty imposed by the central government. "If this duty is lifted, onion prices could stabilize, benefiting farmers," they stated. A group of onion farmers has formally submitted a memorandum to former minister and MLA Dilip Walse Patil, urging him to advocate for the issue in the legislative assembly and seek the central government's intervention.
Current Market Prices for Onions (Per 10 Kg)
Super Lot Premium Onion: ₹150 - ₹170
Super Premium Onion: ₹130 - ₹150
Super Medium (Grade 2) Onion: ₹110 - ₹130
Golti Onion: ₹90 - ₹110
Badla Onion: ₹50 - ₹80
Increased Supply in Eastern Ambegaon Further Dampens Prices
In the eastern region of Ambegaon taluka, onion harvesting has commenced, further intensifying market supply. Farmers who fetched ₹270-₹300 per 10 kg just a week ago are now struggling with prices between ₹170-₹180 per 10 kg, leading to frustration among growers.
At the Loni sub-market yard under the Manchar APMC, a total of 2,607 onion sacks arrived on Monday, according to APMC Chairman Nilesh Thorat. The top-grade onion variety was sold at ₹170-₹180 per 10 kg, reflecting a downward trend in prices due to increased supply.
Loni Market Onion Prices (Per 10 Kg)
Top-Grade Premium Onion: ₹170 - ₹180
Grade 2 Onion: ₹130 - ₹160
Golti Onion: ₹60 - ₹120
Badla Onion: ₹30 - ₹50
