The Indian government intends to significantly increase the radiation processing of onions to establish a buffer stock of 100,000 tons this year, aiming to prevent shortages and stabilize prices. This decision comes in light of the expected 16% decrease in onion output to 25.47 million tons for the 2023-24 period, primarily due to lower yields in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
To counteract hoarding and reduce price volatility, the government, through the consumer affairs ministry, plans to enhance onions' shelf life using radiation technology. According to Nidhi Khare, secretary at the consumer affairs ministry, the plan involves identifying 50 irradiation centers near consumption areas. The ministry has directed state agencies, NAM and NCCF, to procure 500,000 tons of onions for buffer stock and to investigate irradiation facilities around significant consumption centers, including Sonepat, Thane, Nasik, and Mumbai. Previously, a pilot radiation processing of 1,200 tons was conducted near Maharashtra.
Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com