• UGI USER
  • Apr 29, 2024
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CENTRE ATTEMPTS TO SOOTHE MAHARASHTRA ONION FARMERS

Why in the news?

Centre’s announcement of onion export allowances amidst criticism from Maharashtra farmers and opposition leaders sparks controversy and debate.

Centre's announcement of onion export allowances amidst criticism from Maharashtra farmers and opposition leaders sparks controversy and debate. source:medium

About Centre’s Response to Criticism:

  • Amid backlash from Opposition leaders and Maharashtra onion farmers over permitting onion exports from Gujarat, the Centre intervened.
  • The Consumer Affairs Ministry announced the allowance of 99,150 tonnes of onion exports, aiming to address concerns raised.
  • The ban on onion exports, imposed since December and extended indefinitely, remains a contentious issue.
  • Previous export approvals to various countries, including Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Maldives, Bahrain, and Sri Lanka, have faced scrutiny and criticism from opposition parties, questioning the fairness of treatment between Maharashtra and Gujarat.
About National Cooperative Ex- ports Limited (NCEL):

  • Establishment: Set up under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 by the Ministry of Cooperation.
  • Objective: Aims to promote exports, particularly of agricultural commodities, for the benefit of Indian farmers.
  • Membership: Open to cooperative societies at all levels, including primary and apex, and certain other entities approved by the Central Registrar.
  • Focus: Exporting surplus produce from the Indian cooperative sector to international markets, expanding beyond domestic boundaries.