How Onions Are Bringing Literal Tears to Households Across India?

Onion Price Hike: Onions have brought literal tears to households across India, including in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, as prices surge to Rs 80 per kilogram in November—the highest in five years. 

This spike is evident in wholesale markets, where prices have climbed to Rs 70-80 per kilogram, straining the budgets of many households. The cost of onions has surged from Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kilogram recently, with some cities seeing prices nearly double. Similarly, tomato prices have risen, with rates now between Rs 60 and Rs 70 per kilogram.

5-Year High Inflation in Onion Prices Squeezes Budgets

This sharp increase has begun impacting household budgets nationwide, with customers adjusting their shopping habits to accommodate the soaring costs. Onion prices in cities like Delhi and Mumbai have broken a five-year record, significantly impacting consumer spending. Shoppers feel the pinch of the doubled prices, and even vendors report challenges in maintaining sales volumes.

Declining Demand as Onion Prices Rise: Vendors Speak Out

A vegetable vendor in Delhi said that “The price of onions has risen from Rs 60 to Rs 70 per kg. Since we source them from the market, any increase in wholesale prices affects our selling prices as well.” He said that while the price hike has led to a decline in sales, many consumers continue to buy onions as they remain a household staple.

Customer Arunima expressed her frustration, stating, “Onion prices should typically decrease at this time of year, but they’ve only increased. I had to buy onions at Rs 70 per kg, which has affected our meals at home. I appeal to the government to take action to reduce the prices of essential vegetables.”

Onion and Garlic Prices Cause Widespread Distress

As of November 8, onion prices in Delhi and other states, including Mumbai, have reached or exceeded Rs 80 per kilogram. Anwar, a customer from Mumbai, remarked, “Onion and garlic prices have soared. I bought 5 kg of onions for Rs 360, which has stretched our household budget.” 

Another shopper expressed hope that the prices would stabilize soon, likening the fluctuation to the volatility of the stock market: “Just as the Sensex rises and falls, I hope the price of onions will also decrease.”

The persistent inflation in vegetable prices has underscored the need for relief measures, as families and vendors alike await stability in the essential produce markets.

(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)