Buffer of around 44,205 MT of onions, says Centre

The Central government on Friday said to have a buffer of around 44,205 metric tonnes (MT) of onions have been built through procurement from the crop this year as against the buffer of 13,508 MT built in 2018-19.

"During 2019-20, as on June 16, a buffer of around 44,205 MT of onions has been built through procurement from the crop of Rabi-2019 season as against a buffer of 13,508 MT built in 2018-19," said a press release from Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.

"Stock limits on onions is periodically reviewed keeping in view the price and availability situation. The stock limit on onion was withdrawn on March 31, 2018, in view of the market scenario. Onion from the buffer was released during lean periods of 2017-18 and 2018-19 to moderate the prices and disincentives hoarding," added the release.

The Central government has offered onions from the buffer to States and Union Territories at 'no profit a loss' basis to improve availability and moderate prices of onion during the lean season.