A significant new organisation, the Paschimbanga Progressive Potato Growers and Traders Association (PPPG &TA), has been established in West Bengal, marking a pivotal development for the state’s potato sector. Formed with the primary objective of serving the interests of both potato farmers and traders, this association also aims to extend crucial co-operation to the state government, particularly during times of market instability or crisis.
The genesis of the PPPG &TA dates back to November 2024, when the Chief Minister initiated the formation of a committee. This committee, spearheaded by state Agricultural Marketing minister Becharam Manna, was specifically tasked with developing a parallel association to the existing West Bengal Pragatishil Alu Byabsayee Samiti.
The new association has already taken its initial steps, holding its first meeting on 22 June 2025 at the Haripal BDO Sabhaghar in Hooghly. This inaugural gathering saw the attendance of approximately 200 potato participants, signifying broad early engagement and support. Leading the charge as the convenor of PPPG &TA is Swapan Samanta, former chairman of Tarakeswar Municipality, bringing a wealth of administrative experience to the organisation.
A core principle guiding the PPPG &TA is its commitment to the public good. The organisation has explicitly stated that it will consult the state government and will refrain from taking any decisions that might lead to inconvenience for common people. Beyond this, a central tenet of its mission is to actively work for the welfare of farmers. Minister Becharam Manna emphasised the ambitious scope of this initiative, stating that the organisation is planned to be established in all blocks of the state, thereby ensuring comprehensive reach and support for farming communities across West Bengal.
The formation of the Paschimbanga Progressive Potato Growers and Traders Association represents a concerted effort to create a more organised and responsive framework for the potato sector in West Bengal. By prioritising the welfare of both growers and traders and committing to close cooperation with the state government, the PPPG &TA aims to build a resilient and equitable system, which is particularly vital during periods of agricultural uncertainty or market fluctuations.
