The Maharashtra state government has constituted a five-member expert sub-panel to investigate the recurring crash in onion prices and propose both immediate and long-term measures to bolster the onion sector. The panel has been instructed to submit its comprehensive report within 15 days.
Government Resolution Issued
A government resolution (GR) to this effect was issued by the cooperation, marketing and textiles department on Tuesday. According to an official, the sub-panel will operate under a secretary-level committee established in March to address the challenges faced by onion farmers amid falling wholesale prices.
Composition of the Panel
The panel comprises former vice-chancellor of Dr Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dr Kisanrao Lawande; former director of marketing Sunil Pawar; Indo Vegetables Development Association president Sarang Nirmal; entrepreneur Narendra Pawar; and Maharashtra director of marketing Sharad Jare, who will serve as the member secretary.
Mandate and Tasks
The sub-committee has been assigned the task of preparing a detailed report on various aspects of the onion economy. Its responsibilities include analyzing the reasons behind recurring price crashes, developing a standard operating procedure (SOP) to manage such situations, and studying storage techniques, particularly those suitable for high-temperature conditions, along with their cost implications and impact on production.
The panel will also examine how improved onion varieties developed by agricultural universities can be better integrated into the supply chain. Additionally, it will explore opportunities for value addition, including the development of onion-based byproducts.
Review of Export Policy
A key part of the panel's mandate is to review the Centre's onion export policy over the past seven to eight years and evaluate its impact on domestic market prices using statistical data. As part of its study, panel members will visit storage facilities developed by the National Research Centre for Onion and Garlic in Rajgurunagar.
Background
The formation of the sub-panel follows a special meeting held on March 25 under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. During the meeting, a high-level committee comprising senior officials from the agriculture, finance, and marketing departments was announced to suggest immediate interventions to support farmers facing losses, while also recommending long-term structural reforms.
With onion farmers in key producing regions like Nashik continuing to face price volatility, the government has emphasized the need for timely and practical recommendations to stabilize the market and prevent similar crises in future seasons.
