Onion price hikes make wallets weep across India

The price of onions has surged from Rs 40-60 per kilogram to Rs 70-80 per kilogram in wholesale markets, with some regions reporting prices as high as Rs 80 per kilogram as of November 8, 2024, leaving many consumers in distress and struggling to adjust to the rising costs of this essential kitchen staple.

"The price of onions has risen from Rs 60 to Rs 70 per kilo. We source them from the mandi, so the prices we receive there directly affect what we sell it for. Sales have dropped due to the price hike, but people are still buying onions because it's a crucial part of daily meals," a seller in a Delhi market told ANI.

Consumers are also expressing concern over the price hike. Faiza, a buyer in Delhi, said, "The price of onions has shot up, even though it should have decreased according to the season. I just bought onions at Rs 70 per kilo, which has impacted our food habits. I urge the government to reduce the prices of vegetables, especially those we use daily."

However, the price surge is not limited to Delhi- in Mumbai, buyers are also feeling the pinch.

"The price of onions and garlic has doubled. This price surge is affecting household budgets. I purchased 5 kilograms of onions for Rs 360," Dr. Khan, a consumer in Mumbai, told the news agency.

"The price of onions has increased significantly—from Rs 40-60 per kilo to Rs 70-80 per kilo. But like the Sensex, onion prices will likely fluctuate, and hopefully, they will come down soon," another Mumbaikar, Aakash, added.

In response, market seller Kishore explained, "The increase in onion prices is due to inflation. The price has risen from Rs 60 to Rs 70-75 per kilo, but since onions are a staple, people are still buying them despite the higher cost."

As onion prices soar across the country, many consumers are left grappling with the impact on their grocery bills, with prices for the vegetable ranging between Rs 70-80 per kilogram in various cities.