First Kanda Express set to arrive from Nashik, Capital readies onion plan

On Thursday, the Capital will receive its first consignment of onions via the Kanda Express from Nashik, prompting the Delhi government to evaluate the city's daily onion needs in anticipation of potential price hikes. Presently, no shortage of onions exists in the city, yet authorities remain prepared for price fluctuations. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta convened a meeting to devise a comprehensive action plan, with Food and Supplies Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa unveiling the government's strategy on Wednesday.

Sirsa disclosed that the department is presently gauging the city's current onion requirement and anticipates finalizing a plan by the following day. Upon arrival in Delhi, surplus onions will be procured in quantities ranging from 10 to 15 metric tons or more, contingent on demand. The union food ministry has pledged to meet Delhi's onion requisition.

Should prices escalate further, the government intends to procure onions and sugar from NAFED, a Central government entity, and distribute them across the capital. These commodities will be sold at the procurement price from NAFED. The CM has directed the department to explore making affordable onions accessible through camps throughout Delhi.

The Delhi government will shoulder transportation and associated costs, eschewing any additional financial strain on residents. Sirsa emphasized that the government will refrain from allowing any burden on the public. In the case of sugar, the union government has set quantity limits to curb hoarding. The Delhi government will abide by these provisions and take action against those found in contravention.

Additionally, the department will explore methods for supplying sugar at affordable rates, with a detailed plan to be formulated.