Odisha Government Launches State Potato Mission to Boost Potato Production

Odisha’s Seed Minister announced that the state government had initiated the State Potato Mission in the year 2014-15; however, it failed to be implemented effectively. A task force proposed to increase potato cultivation from 5,000 hectares in 2014-15 to 20,000 hectares by 2017-18. The government is now taking steps to reinstate this mission to improve potato production and ensure better profits for farmers.

Initiative to Make Odisha Self-Sufficient Under the Odisha Potato Mission

The Odisha government has decided to re-implement the State Potato Mission to increase the area and production of potatoes in the state. This mission aims to make Odisha self-sufficient in potato production. The previous BJD government had launched the State Potato Mission a decade ago, but farmers growing potatoes did not receive incentive payments proportional to their costs. Due to limited cold storage facilities, farmers distanced themselves from potato cultivation, leading to a decline in production.

Order to purchase 1.87 lakh quintals of certified potato seeds

According to a report from The New Indian Express, the state government has directed the Odisha State Seed Corporation (OSSC) to purchase 1.87 lakh quintals of certified potato seeds. The seed corporation has already placed orders for 1.77 lakh quintals of seeds with well-known traders from Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. The Horticulture Director, Nikhil Pawan Kalyan, has visited both states to inspect the quality of the seeds to be supplied by the traders selected through the tender process.

Extensive Preparations for Potato Production in Odisha

Food Supply and Consumer Welfare Minister Krishna Chandra Patra stated that approximately 1.77 lakh quintals of potato seeds have been delivered to several districts in the state, with supply set to begin on October 14. The state government has set a target to cultivate potatoes over an area of 14,423 hectares during the rabi season. The minister also mentioned that after the construction of cold storage facilities in the sub-divisions, more areas will be included in potato production. Under the government’s plan, a total of 58 cold storages will be built, improving storage capacity for potatoes and providing better facilities for farmers.

State Government to Provide Free Rice to Eligible Individuals

Consumer Welfare Minister Krishna Chandra Patra praised the central government's decision to provide free fortified rice until 2028 and stated that the Odisha government will provide free rice to eligible individuals not covered under the National Food Security Act.