Solapur proposed as major onion trade hub under Maharashtra’s new policy plan

A Maharashtra government committee drafting the State’s onion policy has recommended establishing a large onion terminal in Solapur, positioning the city as a crucial trading hub between North and South India.
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PTI

The State government committee drafting Maharashtra’s onion policy has recommended setting up an onion terminal in Solapur, positioning the city as a key central hub for onion trade between North and South India.

At a recent meeting in Solapur, under the chairmanship of the president of the Agriculture Costs and Prices Commission, Pasha Patel, members discussed developing the terminal to support farmers and strengthen both domestic and international onion trade.

Along with Lasalgaon in Nashik, Solapur receives onions from across the state, and its APMC plays a crucial role in pricing and trading. Committee members recommended that the proposed terminal house all facilities under one roof, including scientific storage systems to prevent damage and reduce post-harvest losses.

Significant development

The committee deliberated on several aspects of the onion trade, acknowledging its deep economic and political significance. Members will hold further consultations—particularly with farmers—before finalising recommendations for the State government.

Representatives from the Onion and Garlic Research Centre stressed the need for scientific storage to protect onions from adverse weather. Traditional storage results in significant losses, and up to 5,000 tonnes could be saved with the right infrastructure.

Committee member Deepak Chavan noted that Solapur could be further developed into a central node for onion trade and exports nationwide.

Dominant crop

Onions harvested in both kharif and rabi seasons dominate India’s agri-politics. Rabi onions—about 70 per cent of annual production—are harvested in March and can last months under ideal conditions. In regular environments, bulbs last only 2 to 3 months, slightly longer if humidity is regulated. When onions rot, ripple effects are felt from Lasalgaon to Delhi, triggering consumer outrage, farmer agitations and policy interventions.

Solapur APMC chairman Dilip Mane said the APMC is ready to lead the establishment of the terminal and already has much of the required infrastructure in place. In 2023–24, Maharashtra accounted for over 35 per cent of India’s onion production, followed by Madhya Pradesh at 17 per cent.

Published on November 19, 2025