Mandsaur (Madhya Pradesh): Onion and garlic prices dropped sharply, causing concern among farmers and traders. Garlic, which used to sell for Rs 25,000 per quintal, is now available for just Rs 6,000 to 7,000. Similarly, onions are selling for as low as Rs 4 to 9 per kg.
Anil Sharma, the Block Congress president of Malhargarh, expressed his worries during a meeting with farmers and traders at the Krishi Upaj Mandi.
He blamed the BJP government's policies for the low prices, stating that the entry of Chinese garlic has severely impacted local farmers. Sharma pointed out that farmers invested heavily in garlic seeds, spending around Rs 55,000 to 60,000 per acre, but are now struggling to cover their costs.
Sharma highlighted that the government has failed to protect local farmers from the influx of cheaper Chinese garlic.
He criticised Modi government for not fulfilling its promise to double farmers' incomes by 2022. He also mentioned that the cost of transporting onion to the market is high, making it even harder for farmers to make a profit.
Many farmers who held onto their garlic hoping for better prices are now disappointed. Traders are also sceptical about future price increases. Sharma has called for a strict ban on Chinese garlic and urged the government to implement policies that ensure fair prices for farmers.
The situation remains tense as farmers face increasing debt and disillusionment with farming.
