Farmers in Lasalgaon here, which is known as Asia's largest onion market, today held a road blockade, or 'rasta roko', over the falling prices of the bulb.
With the fresh stock of winter onion arriving in the agricultural produce market committees (APMCs) across the district, the prices of this kitchen staple has witnessed a drop.
When the markets opened today, onion auction rate on an average was about Rs 700 per quintal, showing a decline as compared to last week. Before the arrival of the new stocks, its per quintal price was at least Rs 100-200 more.
Talking about the demonstration, police said that the farmers blocked the road leading to the APMC. The protesters demanded that the government reduce the Minimum Export Price (MEP) for onions which, at present, stands at USD 700 per quintal.
"Such a heavy MEP brings down exports. There is a large supply in the markets presently. With more supply, the exports must increase, but a high MEP stops that and, hence, the rates of onion have started falling," said Jaydutta Holkar, who led the protest today.
Farmers feel the prices might stabilise if exports increase.
