Potato farmers in the Doaba region are experiencing a successful season with favorable market prices and weather conditions. Farmers have managed to clear their old stocks and are receiving between Rs 900 to Rs 1,200 per 50 kg sack of potatoes.
Market Performance and Crop Varieties
Early varieties, particularly Kufri Pukhraj, have fetched remunerative prices for farmers. The growth of other varieties like 302 has been reported as satisfactory. Jang Bahadur S Sangha, known as the potato king of the region, highlighted that sunny weather and absence of frost have contributed to the success, with varieties like Kufri Uday selling for Rs 850 to Rs 1,050 per 50 kg.
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Storage and Sales
According to Harjaap S Sangha, a prominent potato farmer, previous stocks were cleared by October, and fresh harvest has been commanding prices over Rs 900 per 50 kg, indicating a robust market performance.
Weather Concerns
Despite the current success, farmers express concern about upcoming weather conditions:
- Recent reports of hail in parts of Jalandhar’s potato belt
- Risks of water logging and tuber rot from prolonged rain
- Potential threat of blight disease due to fog and rain
- Need for adequate sunshine for optimal crop growth
Production Statistics
Paramjit Singh, Horticulture Development Officer, reports:
- Land under potato cultivation has increased from 1.14 lakh hectares to 1.17 lakh hectares
- Initial market prices reached Rs 1,200 per 50 kg
- Current field prices stand at Rs 900 per 50 kg
- Farmers anticipate maintaining prices around Rs 750 per 50 kg during peak harvest season
The positive market conditions and favorable weather patterns have contributed to what appears to be a successful season for potato farmers in the Doaba region, though continued success will depend on weather conditions in the coming weeks.
