Advisory for Onion farmers, how to store Onions safely in summer, Government subsidy available

View of the summer season, senior scientists from Chandrashekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, have issued important storage guidelines for onion-producing farmers in Uttar Pradesh. They stated that onion farming can significantly strengthen farmers’ financial condition, but only if harvesting, grading, and storage are done scientifically.

Right Time for Harvesting and Grading:

Dr. Arun Kumar Singh, Senior Horticulture Scientist at the university’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Dalipnagar, advised that onion bulbs should be harvested when about 50% of the plant tops have turned yellow and fallen over. After harvesting, the dry leaves above the bulb (2.5–3 cm) should be trimmed. Damaged, rotten, or diseased bulbs should be removed, and the remaining bulbs should be graded based on size.

High Risk of Rot during June-July:

During the peak summer months of June and July, onion rot is a common issue. High temperatures combined with humidity can significantly increase storage losses. However, proper grading, ventilation, and storage practices can reduce damage to a great extent.

Tips for Safe Onion Storage:

1. Ensure that direct sunlight does not fall on the bulbs.
2. Summer, the width of onion heaps should be limited to 60–70 cm.
3. Small bulbs can be stacked up to a height of 90–100 cm, and larger bulbs up to 120 cm.
4. Use netted plastic sacks for packing to maintain proper air circulation.

Government Subsidy on Storage Structures:

1. The government is also offering financial assistance for building improved onion storage structures.
2. A structure with a capacity of 250 quintals is eligible for a subsidy of ₹87,500.
3. Farmers can apply through their District Horticulture Office to avail the subsidy.
4. Storage units should be built on elevated platforms to avoid ground moisture.
5. Use tiles or other insulating materials on the roof to maintain optimal temperatures, and ensure good air ventilation between the layers of stored onions.

Medicinal Benefits of Onions: Dr. Singh added that onions also possess medicinal properties. They are rich in phytochemicals that help boost Vitamin C levels in the body, thus enhancing immunity.
Today, onion cultivation has become a lucrative cash crop, and due to its year-round demand, farmers in many Indian states are earning substantial profits.

Read More- Onion Cultivation