New Delhi: India has exported more than 45,000 tonnes of onion since the ban on outbound shipments was lifted early this month, a top government official said recently. These exports provided relief to farmers after curbs were imposed to keep domestic supplies steady ahead of general elections.

The world's biggest vegetable exporter banned exports of the bulb last December and then extended it in March, after a rise in prices triggered by sluggish production.

"Since the ban was lifted, more than 45,000 tonnes of onions have been exported, mostly to the Middle . . .