Onion Prices Skyrocket in Aug-Nov Every Year; Govt Must Review Buffer Stock Policy: Economic Survey FOLLOW US ON: Expressing concern over a sharp rise in onion prices during August-November every year, the Economic Survey recommended review of the government's buffer stock policy, adding that the key kitchen item should be stored in modern cold storage facilities and distributed timely to reduce wastage of huge quantities. The pre-Budget Survey also said the government should promote the use of dehydrated onions that have longer shelf life for buffer stock purpose, while the hydrated variety should be sold early. Onion prices had skyrocketed to as high as Rs 100 per kg in the retail markets few months back, forcing the government to ban exports, allow imports and impose stock limits. The exports curbs have been lifted now with softening of prices. While analysing onion price seasonality and effective policy measures in great detail in the report, the Survey rued that the prices skyrocket despite the government's efforts to create a buffer stock for selling onions in case of rise in retail prices.