Mumbai: In response to widespread complaints over chaos in onion procurement and falling prices for farmers, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule took swift action by directly engaging with Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Piyush Goyal to resolve the crisis. His proactive intervention has been welcomed by onion growers and farming communities across the state.
The issue came into the spotlight following a hunger strike in Amravati by Prahar Janshakti Party leader Bachchu Kadu, who raised concerns about the government's failure to ensure fair prices for onions. Acting promptly, Minister Bawankule promised a resolution and convened a high-level meeting at the state legislature involving ministers and senior officials from various departments.
Speaking on the matter, Bawankule said, “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.”
Marketing Minister Supports Direct Procurement from Farmers
Marketing Minister Jaykumar Rawal supported the farmers’ demand for policy changes and asserted, “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 Stresses Role of Market Committees
Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate emphasized the importance of transparency and official procedures. “Market Committees are the rightful channels for produce sales. Government procurement must be coordinated through these committees to ensure accountability,” he said.
Bachchu Kadu Demands Minimum Base Price of ₹24/kg
Bachchu Kadu demanded that government agencies like NCCF and NAFED purchase onions directly from markets, avoiding any procurement from outside APMC (Agricultural Produce Market Committee) channels. He also urged the Chief Minister to recommend a minimum base price of ₹24 per kilogram to ensure fair compensation for farmers.Revenue Minister Bawankule Intervenes in Onion Procurement Crisis;
