BUFFER STOCK: BARC JOINS GOVT IN ONION IRRADIATION PILOT; 3 LAKH TONNES PROCURED

The government has procured 20 per cent more onion at 3 lakh tonnes as buffer stock this year, while also piloting irradiation of onion with BARC

- 

This year, the government has obtained an additional 20 per cent of onions, totalling 3 lakh tonnes, as a buffer stock. On Sunday, Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh stated that the government is also conducting a pilot program with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to irradiate onions and extend their shelf life.

During the fiscal year 2022-23, the government maintained 2.51 lakh tonnes of onions as a buffer stock. The Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) manages this buffer stock to address any significant increase in prices during periods of low supply.

“To ensure preparedness for the festival season, the government has built a robust buffer stock of 3 lakh tonnes this year. Onions are readily available,” Singh informed PTI.