Supply shock triggered by uneven monsoon spurs onion price surge

A fresh supply shock triggered by a deficient monsoon has led to a surge in onion prices -- which have more than doubled within a fortnight in several states as the Union government began releasing stocks from its reserves to cool rates amid high festive season demand.

- Zia Haq

Most vegetables have gotten expensive again, retailers said, driven by demand from households, eateries, and street food vendors ahead of Diwali, a major festival. The government would continue to sell onions in about 16 cities from its buffer stock to stem the current inflationary spell, an official said.