Beyond the Middle East Market: A Case-Cum-Research Study on Maharashtra's Onion Crisis and 50 Profitable Pathways for Farmer Prosperity Through Market Diversification and Value Addition
Beyond the Middle East Market: A Case-Cum-Research Study on Maharashtra's Onion Crisis and 50 Profitable Pathways for Farmer Prosperity Through Market Diversification and Value Addition Abstract Maharashtra is India's largest onion-producing state, contributing nearly 35–40% of national onion production. The state's onion economy is heavily dependent on exports to Middle Eastern countries. Recent geopolitical conflicts and disruptions in international trade routes have reduced export demand, creating a severe supply-demand imbalance. Consequently, farmgate prices have fallen to approximately ₹12 per kg while many farmers demand a remunerative price of ₹50 per kg. This study examines the current crisis and proposes 50 practical strategies through which farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), processors, exporters, and policymakers can improve profitability, reduce wastage, and stabilize incomes. Keywords: Onion marketing, Maharashtra, FPO, Value addition, Exp...