In Maharashtra, concerns over fluctuating onion prices have prompted intervention by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. To address the situation, he engaged with Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Piyush Goyal. Farmers have signaled their approval of these efforts.
This issue gained attention after a hunger strike led by Prahar Janshakti Party's Bachchu Kadu in Amravati. Kadu highlighted the government's inability to guarantee fair onion prices. In response, Minister Bawankule held a high-level legislative meeting with ministers and top officials across different departments.
Minister Bawankule remarked, "A coordinated effort between the state and central governments will be undertaken to protect farmers from losses and ensure proper market access for their produce."
Jaykumar Rawal, the Marketing Minister, advocated for direct procurement from farmers or open markets, rather than closed AFPO centers. He stated, "Procurement should happen directly from farmers or open markets, not through closed AFPO centers. Export issues should not impact purchase decisions. Current lobbying is suppressing prices and hurting farmers."
Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate spoke on the role of official channels, emphasizing, "Market Committees are the rightful channels for produce sales. Government procurement must be coordinated through these committees to ensure accountability."
Bachchu Kadu proposed that agencies like NCCF and NAFED purchase onions directly from markets, emphasizing the avoidance of non-APMC channels. He urged for a minimum base price recommendation to the Chief Minister, suggesting approximately $0.29 per kilogram to ensure farmers receive fair value.
Source: Free Press Journal