The Maharashtra government has ordered the suspension of licenses as a response to the indefinite strike by onion traders in Nashik district, protesting against the recent hike in export duty on onions by the Union government. The move has raised concerns about a potential scarcity of onions in retail markets and an increase in prices.

The Nashik District Onion Traders Association (NDOTA) has halted onion auctions in all agriculture produce market committees (APMCs) across the district. They are demanding the cancellation of the export duty, a 50 per cent reduction in market fees, and other concessions. The government has warned of legal action if APMCs fail to comply.