Rajasthan Government Approves Construction of 35 Onion Storage Structures

Key Highlights

• Rajasthan approves 35 new onion storage structures in Bhilwara district.
• Farmers are to receive a 50% subsidy for building storage structures.
• Each structure can store up to 25 metric tons of onions.
• Prevents crop spoilage, allowing farmers to sell at higher prices later.
• Ensures stable onion prices for consumers throughout the year.

The Rajasthan government has approved the construction of 35 new onion storage structures to help farmers store their crops and ensure better prices throughout the year. These structures will be built in Bhilwara district across three blocks—Mandalgarh, Jahazpur, and Suwana.

This move comes in response to the bumper Kharif onion harvest this year, which has brought smiles to farmer’s faces. Onion production in the region has doubled compared to last year, leading to higher market prices. Currently, the average price of onions in Rajasthan is ₹3,250 per quintal, with the highest price reaching ₹3,500 per quintal.

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Benefits of Onion Storage Structures

The construction of these storage structures aims to solve two major problems for onion farmers: crop spoilage and low selling prices. Farmers often sell onions at lower rates due to the fear of spoilage. With these new structures, onions can be stored safely for up to a year, allowing farmers to sell their produce when market prices are higher.

Deputy Director of the Bhilwara Horticulture Department, Rajkumar Mala, explained that these storage structures are designed to ensure proper ventilation, preventing spoilage. Each structure, capable of storing 25 metric tons of onions, costs around ₹1.75 lakh to build. The government will provide a 50% subsidy, reducing the financial burden on farmers.

Government Support and Subsidy

Under the National Horticulture Mission Scheme, the Rajasthan government has provisions for subsidies to promote better storage facilities. For cold storage structures with capacities ranging from 250 to 5,000 metric tons, farmers can receive a subsidy of up to ₹1.4 crore.

This initiative will not only benefit individual farmers but also farmer groups and entrepreneurs. Farmers who cannot build their own structures can rent storage spaces or collaborate with others in their villages.

Also Read: Subsidy Amount Increased in Gujarat for Grain Storage, Now ₹1 Lakh

Positive Impact on Farmers and Consumers

Bhilwara district produces approximately 4,000 tons of onions annually. However, due to simultaneous harvesting, market oversupply often forces farmers to sell at lower rates. By storing their onions, farmers can wait for better market conditions, ensuring higher profits.

Additionally, the availability of stored onions will stabilize market prices, making onions more affordable for consumers. This initiative will also prevent the wastage of perishable crops, benefiting both farmers and traders.

Sustainable Storage Solutions

The onion storage structures are made of bamboo racks with holes to allow air circulation. This design helps keep onions fresh for up to a year. Farmers who store their produce can take advantage of peak market prices, while the stored supply can help maintain stable prices for consumers during off-seasons.

In previous years, similar initiatives in Kotri, Mandalgarh, and Aasind areas have proven successful for onion farmers. Encouraged by these results, the horticulture department has expanded the program to 35 additional locations this year.

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CMV360 Says

The construction of 35 onion storage structures in Rajasthan is a significant step toward improving farmer’s income and reducing wastage. This initiative ensures fair pricing for farmers while making onions affordable for consumers. With government support and subsidies, this program is expected to bring long-term benefits to the agriculture sector in the region.