In a significant agricultural shift, North Maharashtra's summer onion cultivation has experienced a 40% decrease across its four districts: Nashik, Dhule, Nandurbar, and Jalgaon. Traditionally planted between November and January, with harvesting commencing in March, this year's cultivation concluded with a stark reduction in acreage. This downturn, attributed to inadequate monsoonal rainfall, has significant implications for both local farmers and the market. Summer onions, known for their extended shelf life of over six months, are typically stored by farmers to leverage better pricing. This strategic storage fulfills market demand during the May-October period, when fresh onion crops are scarce.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 16, 2024 13:57 UTC