Maharashtra: Onion farmers in Maharashtra are facing another challenge just before Diwali. Several key onion markets in the state have decided to remain closed for 11 days, triggering widespread concern among farmers as onion prices are already low.
Bharat Dighole, Founder President of the Maharashtra State Onion Producers’ Union, criticized the decision as unfair to farmers. He said:
“Farmers work hard all year, and when they come to sell their produce, the gates are closed. This tradition must end. The government should intervene immediately.”
Dighole added that market committees run on farmers’ hard-earned money, and keeping auctions closed for such a long period is unjust. While closing markets for a few festival days is understandable, an 11-day closure is excessive.
Onion prices are already under pressure, ranging from ₹400 to ₹1,480 per quintal in several markets. With the 11-day closure, once the markets reopen, the sudden surge in supply could further depress prices, increasing farmers’ losses. Farmers also report that storage facilities are already limited, and the pause in sales will exacerbate their difficulties.
Farm leaders have urged the state government to instruct market committees to operate in the farmers’ interest and avoid unnecessary closures. Bharat Dighole suggested that markets could remain open except on the main Diwali day, reducing potential losses for farmers.
With onion prices already falling, the extended market closure ahead of Diwali has intensified farmers’ concerns. If timely action is not taken, onion prices could drop further after Diwali, severely affecting farmers’ incomes.
