Overview
Uttar Pradesh is a leading state in potato production in India, playing a crucial role in the country’s agricultural sector. The state’s favorable climate, fertile soil, and advanced farming techniques contribute to its significant potato yield.
Contribution to Indian Potato Production
In the year 2022-23, Uttar Pradesh made a substantial contribution to India’s total potato production:
- India’s total potato production: 60.14 million tonnes
- Uttar Pradesh’s potato production: 20.126 million tonnes
- Percentage contribution: 33.46% of India’s total potato production
Importance in National Context
Uttar Pradesh, along with West Bengal and Bihar, forms the trio of major potato-producing states in India. Together, these three states contribute to:
- 68% of the total area under potato cultivation in India
- 78% of the total potato production in the country
Potato Growing Regions in Uttar Pradesh
Potato cultivation in Uttar Pradesh is primarily concentrated in two agro-climatic zones:
- North-central plains: This zone covers Western Uttar Pradesh and accounts for about 25% of the total area under potato cultivation in India.
- North-eastern plains: This zone includes Eastern Uttar Pradesh and contributes significantly to the state’s potato production.
Top 10 Potato Growing Districts
The following are the top 10 potato-growing districts in Uttar Pradesh in 2022-23, with their production figures in Lac Metric Tonnes:
| District | Production (Lac Metric Tonnes) |
|---|---|
| Agra | 28.0 |
| Firozabad | 20.8 |
| Kannauj | 20.4 |
| Hathras | 19.1 |
| Farrukhabad | 15.9 |
| Aligarh | 11.0 |
| Badayun | 8.5 |
| Mainpuri | 7.6 |
| Allahabad | 7.3 |
| Barabanki | 7.2 |
Factors Contributing to High Production
- Favorable agro-climatic conditions
- Availability of improved potato varieties suitable for sub-tropical climates
- Strong seed production and distribution network
- Presence of ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) regional station at Modipuram, Uttar Pradesh
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its leading position, potato production in Uttar Pradesh faces challenges such as:
- Climate change impacts, including heat stress and drought
- Pest and disease management
- Need for more cold storage facilities
- Market price fluctuations
However, with ongoing research and development in potato varieties, sustainable farming practices, and improved storage and marketing infrastructure, Uttar Pradesh is poised to maintain its position as a key player in India’s potato production landscape.
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