Maharashtra Chief Minister Pledges Financial Support for Nashik Onion Farmers
In a significant development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured that the state government will extend financial assistance to onion farmers in Nashik who are suffering major losses due to a steep decline in wholesale prices. The announcement was made during his visit to Nashik city on Friday, where he emphasized the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural community during crises.
Review Meeting to Assess Situation and Decide on Measures
Chief Minister Fadnavis stated that a review meeting would soon be convened to thoroughly assess the current situation and decide on appropriate measures to address the price crisis. "Every year, onion farmers face several challenges due to fluctuations in the global market. Since the Mahayuti government came to power, it has consistently supported farmers during crises and extended financial relief. This time as well, the government will stand firmly with farmers and take necessary steps to ensure timely support," the CM affirmed.
Ministers Urge Urgent Action with Specific Relief Demands
Cabinet ministers Girish Mahajan, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Dada Bhuse have submitted letters to the chief minister, urging him to call an urgent meeting to address the persistent drop in onion prices that has severely affected farmers in Nashik district. Earlier, the three ministers had appealed for immediate action, proposing measures such as granting Rs 500 per quintal to farmers who sold their produce at lower rates in Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs).
In 2023, the state government had provided financial assistance of Rs 350 per quintal following a sharp crash in wholesale prices. With the current situation being even more severe, the ministers have requested an increased relief of Rs 500 per quintal for farmers who sold onions at reduced prices and suffered substantial losses.
Farmers Protest and Demand Minimum Support Price
Meanwhile, some farmers have taken to protesting against the falling prices by climbing a water tank in Lasalgaon. They are demanding a minimum support price of Rs 3,000 per quintal and a grant of Rs 1,500 per quintal for those who sold their produce at low rates in the past six months. Farmers argue that the cost of cultivating onions is around Rs 1,800 per quintal, and selling below this cost results in heavy financial losses, exacerbating their economic distress.
The ongoing crisis highlights the broader challenges faced by onion farmers in Maharashtra, particularly in Nashik, which is a major onion-producing region. The state government's response, including the promised financial aid and review meeting, is seen as a critical step toward mitigating the impact of market fluctuations and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural livelihoods.
