Onion prices rise 20% in past two weeks as rains damage crop

Onion prices have risen about 20% in the past fortnight, as heavy rains damaged the crop and reduced the arrival of the vegetable in the market.

Onions have become costlier despite higher production and storage. Prices are likely to increase some more, supported by an expected government procurement of onions, said trade sources.

At Nashik's Lasalgaon wholesale market, the biggest for onions in India, the average price has increased by about 20% from ₹11.50 a kg on May 15 to ₹14 on May 31.