India`s onion productivity is well below the world and other leading countries. The extensive cultivation of open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) is the main cause of this low productivity. More importantly, there is a shortage of suitable onion hybrids available in the Indian market. In the 1990s, ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru, developed two hybrids, viz., Arka Kirthiman and Arka Lalima, and identified them for cultivation in the state of Karnataka, but they failed to replace OP cultivars nationwide. To popularise onion hybrids in India, we must realign our onion research and policy. Effective integration of conventional breeding methods with new genomic tools such as molecular markers and doubled haploid (DH) technologies can change our onion hybrid breeding efforts. Additionally, supporting policy frameworks that promote niche-orientated hybrids, trait-specific hybrids, hybrids for processing, and the production and marketing of hybrid seeds can accelerate the benefits of onion hybrid technology in India.