New Delhi, Oct. 12 -- Onion prices are likely to ease in the coming weeks as the increase in fresh kharif supplies along with the remaining stocks of old-crop will improve availability of the kitchen staple, people familiar with the matter said. The expected cooling of retail prices, which at present remain nearly double the last year's prices, is likely to bring respite to people ahead of the festive season.

The all-India average retail price of onion stood at Rs.52.99 per kg on October 10, marginally lower than Rs.53.10 per kg a month ago and significantly higher than Rs.26.65 a year ago, according to government data. Similarly, wholesale prices averaged Rs.4,591 per quintal, up 2.4% over the past month and 123.3% from a year earlier....