📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Agriculture
Maharashtra CM Shinde Calls for More Onion Cold Storage Facilities
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 04 Sep 2026, 07:33 PM
👁 25
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the state needs additional cold storage capacity to reduce onion spoilage and stabilize prices.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted the urgent requirement for expanding cold storage infrastructure for onions across Maharashtra. In a recent statement, he warned that inadequate storage contributes to post‑harvest losses and price volatility for the staple vegetable.
He noted that seasonal fluctuations often leave farmers with unsold produce, while consumers face sharp price hikes when supplies dwindle. By preserving onions in temperature‑controlled facilities, the state could curb waste and keep market rates more predictable.
The government is now looking at public‑private partnerships and incentives to attract investors to set up modern cold storage units. Officials said feasibility studies will be commissioned soon, and policy measures will aim to streamline land allocation and power supply for such projects.
Shinde urged relevant departments to fast‑track approvals, emphasizing that a robust storage network is essential for the agricultural economy and food security of Maharashtra.
Stakeholders, including farmer groups and storage operators, have welcomed the call, indicating readiness to collaborate on building the required capacity.
He noted that seasonal fluctuations often leave farmers with unsold produce, while consumers face sharp price hikes when supplies dwindle. By preserving onions in temperature‑controlled facilities, the state could curb waste and keep market rates more predictable.
The government is now looking at public‑private partnerships and incentives to attract investors to set up modern cold storage units. Officials said feasibility studies will be commissioned soon, and policy measures will aim to streamline land allocation and power supply for such projects.
Shinde urged relevant departments to fast‑track approvals, emphasizing that a robust storage network is essential for the agricultural economy and food security of Maharashtra.
Stakeholders, including farmer groups and storage operators, have welcomed the call, indicating readiness to collaborate on building the required capacity.