27 Apr 2024: PIB Summary for UPSC

27 Apr 2024 PIB
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Centre allows export of 99,150 MT onion to six countries
2. Integrated Pensioners’ Portal of Bank of India

1.Centre allows export of 99,150 MT onion to six countries

Syllabus: GS-3, Economy

 

Prelims: Exports of Onion 

 

Context: The Government of India has permitted the export of 99,150 metric tons (MT) of onions to six neighboring countries, namely Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. 

• Additionally, a quota of 2000 MT of white onions, cultivated specifically for export markets in the Middle East and some European countries, has been allowed. 
• These decisions come against the backdrop of a projected decrease in domestic onion production for the year 2023-24 and increasing demand in the international market.

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National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) as Export Agency:

• NCEL has been designated as the agency responsible for onion exports to the mentioned countries.
• Onions are sourced through an e-platform at the lowest (L1) prices and supplied to nominated agencies in destination countries.
• Maharashtra, as the largest onion producer in India, serves as the primary supplier for onion exports facilitated by NCEL.

 

Export of White Onions:

• The Government has permitted the export of 2000 MT of white onions, which are cultivated specifically for markets in the Middle East and select European countries.
• Production of white onions entails higher costs due to factors like increased seed cost, adherence to good agricultural practices (GAP), and compliance with maximum residue limits (MRL) requirements.

 

Procurement for Onion Buffer:

• A procurement target of 5 lakh tons of onions has been set under the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) for the Rabi-2024 season.
• Central agencies such as NCCF and NAFED are collaborating with local agencies like FPOs/FPCs/PACs to facilitate procurement, storage, and farmer registration.

 

Enhanced Storage Measures:

• To mitigate storage losses, the Department of Consumer Affairs plans to increase the quantum of onions to be irradiated and cold stored from 1200 MT to over 5000 MT.
• Technical support from BARC, Mumbai, is being leveraged to enhance storage efficiency, with last year’s pilot showing a reduction in storage loss to less than 10 percent.

 

Significance:

• Export permissions signify India’s efforts to balance domestic supply with international demand amidst projected production shortfalls.
• White onion export underscores India’s niche in catering to specialized markets while addressing quality and compliance requirements.
• Procurement initiatives aim to stabilize onion prices domestically and provide support to farmers through assured procurement avenues.
• Enhanced storage measures reflect proactive steps to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure the availability of quality onions for both domestic consumption and export.

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