Potatoes have long been a staple crop in Punjab, particularly in the districts of Kapurthala and Jalandhar, where they play a crucial role in seed production. The region is renowned for cultivating high-quality potato varieties, notably Kufri Pukhraj and Jyoti, which are sought after not only in India but also globally. These potatoes originating from Kapurthala and Jalandhar are highly valued for their superior seed quality, making them essential for robust production and exceptional crop yields. Noteably, Punjab ranks fifth in terms of potato production in India. It contributes to 3.1 million tonnes of Potato production
Key Highlights:
- Seed Production Dominance: A staggering 85% of the total potato production in Kapurthala and Jalandhar is earmarked for seed purposes. Farmers in these districts allocate a significant portion of their yield exclusively for seed production, as it offers them substantially higher profits compared to selling potatoes for consumption. The demand for these high-quality seeds is so substantial that farmers across India often secure them in advance, underscoring their importance in the agricultural landscape.
- Preferred Varieties: The Pukhraj and Jyoti potato varieties reign supreme in the Doab region of Punjab, primarily due to their widespread cultivation and impressive yield potential. These varieties have become synonymous with the region’s potato farming, thanks to the exceptional production outcomes derived from their seeds, making them the preferred choice among farmers in Kapurthala and Jalandhar.
- Cultivation Extent: The cultivation of these premium potato varieties spans approximately 12,000 hectares in Kapurthala district alone, with an annual production output of a more than 2 lakh metric tons. These figures underscore the significant contribution of the region to potato farming and seed production in Punjab.
- Demand Across States: The superior quality potatoes grown in Kapurthala find eager buyers across various states in India. States like Karnataka, West Bengal, and Delhi exhibit the highest demand for these potatoes, with additional interest from regions like Uttarakhand and select areas in Uttar Pradesh. The widespread appeal of these potatoes underscores their reputation for exceptional quality and reliability in meeting diverse agricultural needs.
The potato and seed production prowess of Kapurthala and Jalandhar districts in Punjab is an evidence to the region’s agricultural excellence and its vital role in meeting the demand for premium potato varieties both domestically and internationally.
