West Bengal Government Declines Extension for Potato Storage
The West Bengal government has announced that cold storage facilities in the state will not be granted an extension for storing potatoes beyond November 30, 2024. This decision marks a departure from the practice of recent years, where an additional month was typically allowed for potato storage.
Key Points:
- Cold storage owners have been notified to clear out all potatoes by November 30.
- Currently, cold storages in the state hold approximately 10 lakh tons of potatoes.
- The government’s decision aims to regulate market prices and ensure timely distribution.
Market Impact
Despite the large stock in cold storage, retail potato prices remain high. Jyoti potatoes are selling at 35 rupees per kg in the retail market, while wholesale prices range between 27 to 28 rupees.
Allegations have surfaced that some traders are attempting to maintain high prices by releasing limited quantities from cold storage. The government’s directive is seen as a measure to counter this practice and stabilize market prices.
Industry Response
Cold storage owners’ associations anticipate that some potatoes may remain in storage beyond the November 30 deadline. They have already issued notices to traders to remove their stock. The associations plan to meet on November 24 to discuss the situation, though they have not yet approached the government for an extension.
Government Stance
The state government had previously advised traders to release stored potatoes earlier. This recent decision, communicated after a meeting led by Chief Secretary Manoj Pant at Nabanna, firmly establishes that no additional time will be granted this year.
Implications
This move is expected to impact potato traders and potentially influence market prices. It remains to be seen how effectively the stocks will be cleared by the deadline and what effect this will have on potato availability and pricing in the coming months.
The situation highlights the delicate balance between storage practices, market demand, and government regulation in managing essential food commodities.
