Centre to import onions as prices soar, eases fumigation norms till Nov 30

The consignment would be inspected thoroughly by quarantine officials and released only if found free from pests and diseases of concern to India.

Onion prices which have been rising for weeks now have crossed the psychological mark of Rs 80 a kg in Delhi.

In the light of public concern over high prices of onions in the market, the Ministry of Agriculture today decided to allow relaxation from the condition of fumigation and endorsement on PSC as per the Plant Quarantine Order, 2003 for onion imports up to November 30.

The fumigation provisions have been liberalised as the government has decided to facilitate private import of the key kitchen staple from Afghanistan, Egypt, Turkey and Iran to boost the availability and check price rise.

The Agriculture