Empowering Farmers with Knowledge and Innovative Practices to Boost Potato Yields in West Bengal
In a significant initiative to empower local potato farmers, Mahindra HZPC organized a mega farmers meet in the Gazol region of Malda. The event brought together over 100 potato farmers and local seed traders, aiming to enhance their knowledge of advanced potato cultivation techniques and introduce them to the leading Mahindra HZPC potato variety, Columba.
The gathering featured company officials and potato specialist from Punjab, who shared valuable insights on the cultivation of the Columba variety. The specialist highlighted the importance of adopting modern agricultural practices to maximize yield and profitability, guiding farmers on how they can benefit from this high-quality seed variety.
Noteably, West Bengal is the second largest potato-producing state in India, contributing about 22.97% of the total potato production in the country. In the 2023-24 season, potato production in West Bengal is expected to be around 589.94 lakh tonnes. West Bengal is a major supplier of potatoes to other states. Approximately 70% of the potatoes produced in Bengal are supplied to other states every year.
Key Characteristics of Potato Columba
- High Yield Potential: Columba is known for its exceptional yield, providing farmers with a competitive edge in the market.
- Excellent Quality: This variety produces smooth-skinned tubers with a uniform shape, making them highly desirable for both local and export markets.
- Disease Resistance: Columba exhibits strong resistance to common potato diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments and promoting sustainable farming practices.
- Versatile Usage: With its versatile culinary applications, Columba is suitable for various cooking methods, including boiling, baking, and frying, appealing to a broad consumer base.
- Good Storage Quality: The variety has a remarkable shelf life, allowing farmers to store their produce for extended periods without compromising quality.
During the meet, farmers were encouraged to engage in discussions and share their experiences in potato farming. The expert addressed queries regarding cultivation techniques, pest management, and market trends, ensuring that attendees left with practical knowledge they could implement in their fields.
The initiative by Mahindra HZPC reflects the company’s commitment to supporting local agriculture and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in the Malda region. By focusing on quality seed varieties like Columba, Mahindra HZPC aims to drive sustainable growth in potato production and empower farmers to achieve greater profitability.
As the event concluded, farmers expressed their gratitude for the informative session and their eagerness to adopt the Columba variety. With the right resources and knowledge, they are optimistic about increasing their yields and contributing to the thriving agricultural landscape of West Bengal.
