Archive · 24 Jul 2026
Onion and Rice Prices Surge Due to Weather Disruptions
In India, unseasonal rains and lack of proper storage have led to a shortage of onions, causing prices to go up.
At the same time, not enough rain and water problems have made rice more expensive.
Farmers are selling their crops at lower prices, which is making things harder for them.
People buying these foods are also paying more because there isn't enough supply.
This is making it harder for families to afford their daily meals.
Unseasonal rains in May have reduced onion yields in Maharashtra, leading to a shortage and price surge.
Lack of storage infrastructure is causing onions to spoil, resulting in financial losses for farmers.
Insufficient rainfall and water crises have driven up rice prices across various varieties in Tamil Nadu.
The Mettur dam's delayed opening has severely affected paddy cultivation in Tamil Nadu.
Rice prices have increased by up to ₹200 per kg for premium varieties, compounding food inflation pressures.
- Who
- Farmers in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, Indian households
- What
- Price surge in onions and rice due to weather disruptions and storage issues
- When
- Current situation, with expected impacts over the next two months
- Where
- Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, India
- Why
- Unseasonal rains, reduced crop yields, lack of storage infrastructure, and water crises
Farmers' Distress Sales
Market Demand and Supply
Onion Prices
Farmers' Distress Sales
Farmers are forced to sell onions at lower prices due to lack of storage, leading to financial losses.
Market Demand and Supply
The reduced supply due to weather disruptions and storage issues is driving up onion prices in the market.
Rice Prices
Farmers' Distress Sales
Farmers face financial losses due to reduced yields and increased costs.
Market Demand and Supply
Consumers are experiencing higher prices due to reduced supply and increased demand for rice varieties.
- Onion Production (2025–26)
- 327.40 lakh metric tonnes
- Maharashtra's Onion Production (2025–26)
- 151.10 lakh metric tonnes
- Rice Price Increase (Tamil Nadu)
- Up to ₹90 per kg
- Mettur Dam Opening Date
- Delayed due to insufficient water
- Seeraga Samba Rice Price
- Increased from ₹110 to ₹200 per kg