- Onion prices surged up to Rs 15 in Himachal districts.
- Government intensified surveillance against onion hoarding.
- Centre fixed sugar quota, limiting dealer stock.
Prices of onions have surged at a heavy rate amidst the festivities in parts of Himachal Pradesh. Areas such as Shimla, Kangra, and Solan have witnessed a price hike of up to Rs 15 in the last 10 days.
Onion Prices Surge In Several Areas
Onion prices across various Himachal Pradesh districts have risen significantly between mid-August and August 23rd. In Mandi, prices increased from Rs 32 on August 13 to Rs 50 by August 23.
Similarly, Hamirpur saw a jump from a range of Rs 30-35 to Rs 45-50, while Kullu’s prices rose from Rs 28 to Rs 44. Sirmaur experienced an increase from Rs 30 on August 10 to Rs 42 by August 23, and Una saw prices climb from Rs 30 to Rs 44 per kilogram.
Amid the surging prices, Himachal's Food and Civil Supplies Department has intensified surveillance in the markets and warehouses. The department's flying squads will conduct surprise checks of stocks held by traders and those in markets. If stocks exceeding the prescribed limit or hoarding are found, action will be taken against the concerned trader under the Essential Commodities Act.
Fixed Sugar Quota For Dealers
Sugar prices are continuously rising in Himachal Pradesh as well. The Himachal government has not yet issued instructions to prevent hoarding. However, the Centre has fixed the sugar quota. Under the central directive, sugar dealers will be able to keep a maximum stock of 4,000 quintals (400 tonnes) from August 1st to November 30th, 2026.
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Additionally, the purchased sugar will not be allowed to be stored for more than 30 days. Dealers will also have to regularly update their stock details on the government portal. From September 1st, large bulk consumers using more than 10 metric tonnes of sugar every month will not be allowed to keep a stock exceeding 15 days' consumption. This includes large confectioners, bakeries and other institutional consumers.