Bring down prices of onion and other essentials, please

Prices of essential commodities including onion and vegetables have recently seen a sharp rise. In a matter of less than one month, onion price surged from Tk 30 per kilogram to Tk 100 -- a dramatic increase that has sparked widespread discontent. The upward trend in onion prices surfaced on August 19after India imposed a 40-per cent export duty to, what it said, safeguard its domestic market. A number of other vegetable items have also experienced significant hikes. Summer brinjal, snake gourd, sponge gourd, bitter gourd, tomato, pointed gourd, papaya, yard-long bean, and okra, all saw price increases of Tk 20-30 per kg.
Bangladesh is not self-sufficient in onion production and nearly one-third of its requirement has to be fulfilled through import. And it is done mainly from India. However, our environment and weather are very suitablefor growing onion.So, we should try to become self-reliant in producing this essential kitchen item.
High price of onion and vegetables in the country has caused problems particularly for the lower income groups. Price hike affects them first for with their limited incomes, it becomes difficult for them to make both ends meet. They feel insecure when prices increase abruptly. The exact reasons behind the sudden price hike of essentials is intriguingly unexplained. If the prices do not come down, they will make life difficult for the consumers. So, we would like to request our finance minister to look into the matter and take effective action to alleviate the sufferings of the common people.
HasratMehjabin,
Student of Department of Marketing and International Business,
North South University, Dhaka,
hasratrynv@gmail.com