Delhi Govt to Procure Onions and Sugar from NAFED if Prices Rise Further

The Delhi government announced on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, that it will procure onions and sugar from the central government's National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) and distribute them across New Delhi if retail prices continue to climb.

The decision followed a price review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. According to an official release from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), officials noted that there is currently no shortage of onions or sugar in the Capital. However, if rates rise further, the administration will supply both essentials at procurement price, with the Delhi government absorbing transportation and other operational costs.

Food and Supplies Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the Centre has mandated stock limits to prevent the hoarding of sugar. Sirsa warned that the Delhi government will take action against violators if sugar is stored beyond the prescribed limits. The department has also been directed to examine measures to ensure sugar remains accessible at affordable rates.

On Tuesday, retail onion prices stood at ₹55 per kg in the city, while sugar retailed at ₹64 per kg, rising from ₹63.05 per kg the previous day.

Meanwhile, the Union government announced plans to provide relief by selling onions at ₹35 per kg in the national capital, representing a discount of around 36% from prevailing retail rates. The Centre has maintained a buffer stock in Maharashtra, a major producing state, to curb price volatility.

Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare confirmed that the first consignment of approximately 800 tonnes of onions will arrive in the Capital on Wednesday, August 26, via the Kanda Express. The subsidized onions will be sold to consumers through NAFED, NCCF, and Kendriya Bhandar retail outlets.