In response to a 59% surge in onion prices, the Indian government has initiated a special rail transport scheme named 'Kanda Express', moving onions from Nashik, Maharashtra's major production hub, to five key cities. Over 840 tonnes of buffer-stock onions are being dispatched from Lasalgaon in Nashik to Delhi starting Monday, aiming to flood major mandis and lower wholesale prices, which could eventually result in reduced retail prices, particularly in the Delhi-NCR region. The government emphasizes that despite the price hike, overall onion supply is comfortable, with production estimates for 2025-26 projected at around 307 lakh tonnes - similar to last year's production of 308 lakh tonnes. The government also has buffer stocks available, which can be strategically released to control price fluctuations. This 'Kanda Express' initiative is focused on boosting supply in major wholesale markets to combat escalating prices and provide relief to consumers.