Potato farmers in Uttar Pradesh set to boost income with access to international markets

Uttar Pradesh ranks as the top potato-producing state in India. However, in terms of yield per hectare, West Bengal takes the lead with an average production of 29.9 metric tons per hectare compared to Uttar Pradesh's 25.48 metric tons. To bridge this gap and increase productivity, the government is implementing several strategic measures.

Plan to Increase Potato Farmers’ Income:

As part of a pilot project, the central government has introduced plans to export vegetables and fruits via sea routes, with potatoes being one of the included crops. Being India’s largest potato-producing state, Uttar Pradesh is poised to benefit significantly from this initiative. Districts such as Kannauj and Farrukhabad, known for their double-cropping of potatoes, are expected to see a notable rise in farmers’ incomes.

Exporting potatoes through sea routes is expected to stabilize market prices, reducing the frequent fluctuations that often make headlines. This initiative will not only ensure better prices for potatoes but also provide farmers access to global markets, enhancing their profitability.

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Focused Support from the UP Government:

The Uttar Pradesh government has consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by potato farmers. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, several farmer-centric initiatives have been launched:

1. Market Intervention Scheme: Introduced during the Chief Minister's first term, this scheme addressed price drops faced by potato farmers.
2. Provision of High-Quality Seeds: The government ensures the availability of high-quality seeds at reasonable prices, tailored to the agricultural climate of each district.
3. Enhanced Storage and Processing Facilities: Licenses for cold storage construction are being issued through transparent processes. Efforts to establish mega food parks and potato processing clusters are also underway.

Establishment of International Potato Center in Agra:

With the assistance of the central government, an International Potato Center (CIP), headquartered in Lima, Peru, is being developed in Agra at a cost of ₹120 crore. The facility, spanning approximately 10 hectares, is expected to benefit not only Uttar Pradesh but also other potato-producing regions like Bihar and West Bengal, as well as neighboring South Asian countries.
This center will focus on developing high-yield, processing-friendly potato varieties and addressing seed shortages. Additionally, farmers will gain access to advanced techniques and training to enhance their farming practices.

Key Benefits of the CIP for Farmers:

1. Access to High-Quality Seeds: Farmers will have easy access to superior potato seeds, ensuring better crop yields.
2. Increased Productivity and Income: Improved potato varieties and enhanced productivity will lead to higher incomes for farmers.
3. Training in Modern Techniques: The center will provide farmers with training in innovative potato farming methods, boosting their efficiency and expertise.

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