Meet Harsh Patel, The Progressive Potato Farmer from Gujarat, Contributing to the Advancement of Potato Cultivation

Pioneering Farmer and Leader in Potato Farming from the locality of Dolpur Kampa in Gujarat.

In the heart of Gujarat, Harsh Patel stands out as a progressive potato farmer, recognized for innovative approaches and commitment to excellence in potato cultivation. With a Master’s degree in Agriculture from the esteemed Anand Agricultural University, Harsh brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his farming practices. He hails from Dolpur Kampa, a locality in the Dhansura Taluka of the Sabar Kantha District, situated 37 kilometers east of Himmatnagar and 69 kilometers from the state capital, Gandhinagar.

Harsh is not alone in his endeavors; he collaborates with a close-knit group of 13 progressive potato farmers in Dolpur Kampa who collectively cultivate potatoes on over 1,000 acres of land allowing sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices, fostering a supportive environment for innovation in potato farming. In his endeavor as a pioneer in modern potato farming, he carries forward the legacy of his family’s potato cultivation, inherited from his father, Shri Jitendra Patel. He is also supported by his wife, Purvi Patel, who holds an M.Sc in Agriculture from the same university with a specialization in plant pathology. Purvi’s expertise in disease control further enhances their potato farming efforts.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of farming approach as a progressive farmer is his willingness to embrace unconventional methods. He is particularly noted for successfully cultivating the Lady Rosetta potato variety, which has thrived despite the challenges posed by unseasonal rains, high temperatures, and the threat of late blight in Gujarat. Harsh has implemented several innovative practices, including an unconventional irrigation technique where irrigation is applied to the potato crop thru drip technology immediately 2 days after planting—contrary to the traditional practice of waiting a week. This method has resulted in earlier crop emergence, significantly boosting overall yield.

In addition to his exceptional farming techniques, Harsh is quick to adopt emerging technologies in potato cultivation. He utilizes advanced equipment such as precise potato planters, irrigation systems from leading companies like Netafim, and potato graders tailored to meet the specific needs of the crop. His commitment to innovation is further exemplified by his active experimentation and understanding cutting-edge potato varieties such as Taurus, launched by MHZPC, and Kufri Neelkanth, an antioxidant-rich variety. His farm is equipped with precision potato machinery, including potato planter, potato vine cutters and harvesters from world-renowned manufacturer GRIMME, along with a fleet of 4WD tractors from John Deere.

Harsh’s influence extends beyond his own farm, as he actively collaborates with fellow farmers in his community and across different states to share and learn best practices in potato farming. His farm, Satyam Farms, serves as a hub for agricultural research and innovation. Currently, he is engaged with Satyam Agro Consultancy and Huntin Organics Pvt Ltd, where he leads the Farm Research Team. In this role, Harsh is dedicated to advancing agricultural research and empowering farmers by addressing their challenges and providing expert guidance.

Harsh Patel exemplifies the spirit of modern agriculture through his innovative practices, collaborative approach, and commitment to excellence. As he continues to lead the way in potato farming in Gujarat, his efforts not only benefit his own farming operation but also contribute significantly to the broader agricultural landscape.