In a jaw-dropping development, onion prices have plummeted below ₹10/kg in key markets like Delhi, Jaipur, and Lucknow, sending ripples through households and wholesale traders. Until just days ago, retail prices hovered around ₹18–22/kg, but a sudden flood of fresh onions from Maharashtra and MP has created a supply glut.
Traders report record arrivals in Azadpur Mandi, Asia’s largest vegetable hub, with over 20,000 tonnes pouring in overnight. “We haven’t seen prices this low in over two years,” says Ramesh, a trader in Azadpur.
What’s behind the crash?
Farmers rushed to sell stocks before monsoon rains spoil stored onions, overwhelming the market. Meanwhile, demand dropped as consumers stocked up earlier, fearing price hikes.
Farmers in distress:
Despite the cheer for urban consumers, farmers are facing huge losses. Many complain they can’t recover even basic costs of harvesting and transport.
What’s next?
Experts warn this crash might not last. Heavy rains could damage crops or disrupt supply chains, triggering another surge.
Bottom line:
Enjoy the cheap onions — but brace for wild swings ahead as the monsoon progresses.