By Aadyasha News 
Bhubaneswar: Onion prices are once again putting pressure on household budgets in Odisha, with retail rates climbing to ₹60–₹70 per kg in several markets. The sharp increase has raised concerns among consumers and traders over supply, wholesale pricing and the effectiveness of measures to control food inflation.
At Kuberpuri wholesale market in Bhubaneswar, onion prices have increased from around ₹20–₹22 per kg to ₹38–₹42 per kg. Based on prevailing wholesale rates, retail prices should ideally remain below ₹50 per kg. However, consumers are reportedly paying ₹60 per kg at several outlets, while prices at some locations have touched ₹70 per kg.
Rising Wholesale Costs Put Pressure on Retail Market
The widening gap between wholesale and retail prices has become a major concern. In some cases, the difference is reportedly as high as ₹28 per kg, increasing the financial burden on consumers.
Traders say the availability of onions from Bengaluru could help ease prices in Odisha. However, reports of crop damage in Bengaluru have raised concerns over whether adequate supplies will reach the market.
If fresh supplies remain limited, consumers could continue to face elevated onion prices for several months.
Price Rise Extends Beyond Odisha
The increase in onion prices is not restricted to Odisha. Retail prices have been rising across several parts of India, reflecting broader supply and market pressures.
According to Consumer Affairs Ministry data, the national average retail price of onion increased from around ₹48.50 per kg to ₹50.79 per kg.
On September 5, onion prices were reported at around ₹58 per kg in Delhi, ₹53 in Mumbai and ₹63 in Chennai, while Ranchi recorded a comparatively lower price of around ₹40 per kg.
Government Steps to Control Onion Inflation
The Centre has been releasing onions from its buffer stock to contain price increases. In August, the government supplied onions through NAFED and NCCF at a subsidised rate of ₹35 per kg in several cities.
The government has also used special transportation arrangements, including the ‘Kanda Express’, to move onions to major consumption centres such as Delhi and Chennai.
Despite these measures, retail prices remain under pressure in several markets.
Consumers Seek Stronger Market Monitoring
Consumers have urged the government and local administrations to strengthen monitoring of wholesale and retail markets and take action against excessive margins.
For households, the latest increase in onion prices comes at a time when food expenses remain a major component of monthly budgets. A prolonged rise could further contribute to pressure on household consumption and food inflation.
Market participants are now closely watching fresh arrivals from producing regions. Improved supply could bring prices down, while continued shortages may keep onion prices elevated in the coming months.
Business Outlook: The direction of onion prices in Odisha will largely depend on fresh arrivals, transportation costs, availability from major producing states and government market interventions. A sustained improvement in supply will be critical to bringing retail prices closer to normal levels.