The Department of Consumer Affairs is expanding the distribution of buffer onions under the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF), with the first-ever Kanda Express movement to Agartala, Tripura.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said that the consignment, carrying approximately 440 metric tonnes (MT) of onions, is expected to reach Agartala by 18th of this month.
The Ministry added that the move is aimed at strengthening onion availability and ensuring affordable prices ahead of the festive season.
The initiative marks a further expansion of the Government’s onion distribution network in the North-East, following the successful movement of buffer onions to Assam through Kanda Express.
The Ministry informed that so far, two Kanda Express rail rakes, carrying 840 MT and 452 MT of onions, respectively, and 44 truck consignments carrying over 1500 MT have supplied buffer onions across the North-East.
The Ministry also said that the Government continues to closely monitor onion prices, market arrivals and supply conditions across the country.
Further releases will be undertaken, as required, in accordance with approved operational decisions to ensure adequate market availability and help moderate undue price volatility.