Government's onion buffer stock in good condition, says consumer affairs secretary

Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare on Wednesday rejected reports suggesting significant spoilage in the government's onion buffer stock, stating that quality assessments show no cause for concern. "Nothing of that kind has happened. Quality is good," Khare said in response to claims that approximately 30 tonnes of the reserve had deteriorated.

The government maintains the buffer stock as part of its strategy to manage onion prices and ensure supply stability in the domestic market. The 1.21 lakh tonne reserve represents a critical intervention tool during periods of supply shortages or price volatility.

Storage arrangements with the Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) have played a key role in preserving the stock's condition and extending shelf life, according to the secretary. The CWC's controlled storage facilities are designed to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, protecting agricultural commodities from premature degradation.

The government periodically rotates its buffer stock to ensure freshness and prevent quality deterioration. Such measures form part of a broader framework to balance agricultural production cycles with consumer price stability across India's onion markets.