The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution on 26 August 2026, stated that onion availability remains comfortable and the Government has started releasing buffer stocks in a calibrated manner to control seasonal price pressures.
The following has been stated:
• Onion production for 2025-26 is estimated at 307.37 LMT, broadly similar to 307.67 LMT last year.
• For 2026-27, the Government targeted procurement of 2.00 LMT of Rabi onions; around 1.21 LMT has already been procured.
• Buffer onions will be transported through a hybrid rail-and-road model to major consumption centres.
• Kanda Express has commenced onion movement from Nashik to New Delhi, with road supplies also being sent to other major cities.
• Onions will be sold at ₹35/kg through NCCF, NAFED, Kendriya Bhandar, Safal and mobile vans.
• Onion exports during April-June 2026 were around 3.82 LMT, mainly to Malaysia, Sri Lanka, UAE and Nepal.
• Onion prices are being monitored daily across 579 centres. The All-India average retail price on 26 August 2026 was ₹37.87/kg.
• The Government will continue to monitor prices, arrivals and availability and adjust buffer releases as required to prevent unwarranted price increases while supporting farmers.
Please refer to the document attached below for more details.
[Release ID: 2303587]
