AMID concern over likely fall in mandi prices in view of extension of onion export ban, the Government on Tuesday assured farmers that it will start procurement of 5 lakh tonnes of rabi onion in 2-3 days to protect their interest. Last week, the commerce ministry extended the ban on onion export till further orders. The ban on onion shipment was valid till March31.“Wewanttoassurefarmers that their concern will be taken care of.We will begin procurement of 5 lakh tonne of rabi (winter) crop in the next 2-3 days for maintaining a buffer stock," Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh told reporters.

 

The onion export ban is affecting traders and not farmers as average mandi (wholesale) prices are ruling currently at around Rs 13-15/kg in Maharasthra, which is almost double from the previous year level, he said. “Even if prices crash, we will protect the interest of farmers.The government normally buys onion for the buffer stock at a prevailing mandi rates. However if the rates fall below the cost of production, the Government will ensure their cost is covered at least,” he said.