In a significant development for Ambala’s agricultural sector, the Mohra Grain Market in Ambala Cantonment has commenced potato trading operations, marking a pivotal shift in the region’s agricultural commerce landscape. This initiative has brought immediate relief to local farmers who previously faced substantial logistical challenges in selling their produce.
Strategic Market Location Benefits Local Agriculture
The newly authorized potato trading at Mohra Grain Market addresses a long-standing challenge for local farmers. Prior to this development, farmers were compelled to transport their produce to distant markets in Pipli, Shahabad, and Babain, often traveling up to 40 kilometers from their farms. The new trading facility, centrally located in Ambala Cantonment, has dramatically reduced these transportation burdens.
Current Market Performance and Production Statistics
The district’s potato cultivation currently spans 2,460 hectares, demonstrating the crop’s significant presence in local agriculture. Initial market performance has been promising, with potato prices ranging from ₹1,050 to ₹1,155 per quintal, varying based on produce quality. The market’s opening day saw approximately 400 quintals of potato arrivals, indicating strong initial participation from local farmers.
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Economic Impact on Farmers
The economic benefits of this new market are already evident in farmers’ testimonials. Harjinder Singh, a substantial potato grower from Shahpur village with 50 acres under cultivation, highlights how the local market has transformed his business operations. The proximity of the Mohra market – just 2 kilometers away compared to the previous 40-kilometer journey to Pipli – translates to significant savings in both time and transportation costs.
Weather Considerations and Market Dynamics
The timing of this market opening is particularly crucial given the challenging weather conditions. Farmers previously faced additional risks transporting their produce through foggy and cold conditions to distant markets. The local market not only reduces these weather-related risks but also provides a more accessible trading platform during adverse weather conditions.
Financial Relief for Small-Scale Farmers
Small-scale farmers like Rajiv Sharma from Naraingarh, who cultivates potatoes on 5 acres, have particularly benefited from this development. The previous system required substantial transportation costs – over ₹2,000 per trip to Pipli market – which significantly impacted profit margins, especially considering last year’s production costs of ₹600-700 per quintal against market prices of ₹265-300 per quintal.
According to Neeraj Bhardwaj, secretary of the Mohra market, the facility has already handled approximately 1,200 quintals of potato stock since its opening. While current arrivals have been somewhat irregular due to weather conditions, market officials anticipate increased volume in the coming days as more farmers begin harvesting their crops.
Long-term Implications
This development represents more than just a new trading venue; it signifies a structural improvement in the local agricultural infrastructure. The market’s establishment demonstrates the government’s responsiveness to farmer needs and could serve as a model for similar initiatives in other agricultural regions.
The commencement of potato trading at the Mohra Grain Market marks a significant milestone in Ambala’s agricultural development. By addressing key logistical challenges and reducing operational costs for farmers, this initiative promises to strengthen the local agricultural economy while providing a more sustainable model for crop trading in the region.
