Onion & Sugar Prices Surge Sharp, Congress Attacks Centre, Government Releases Buffer Stock

Description

Onion prices have witnessed a sharp surge across major Indian cities, reaching up to ₹60 to ₹70 per kilogram in retail markets and bringing distress to consumers. The price hike follows a recent increase in sugar, milk, cooking oil, and vegetable costs, leading to a political attack by the Congress party against the central government over rising household expenditures. In response, Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare announced plans to release buffer onion stock through the Kanda Express initiative at a subsidized rate of ₹35 per kilo in select consuming centers. Official authorities also noted potential market speculation and cartelization, highlighting higher mandi rates in Nashik compared to Delhi. Field reports from Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad reveal widespread consumer concern as wholesale and retail traders attribute the sudden price escalation to supply chain disruptions and unseasonal rain damages. The situation has forced buyers to cut back on essential kitchen staples while waiting for government interventions to stabilize market rates.