Farmers in Uttar Pradesh should anticipate better potato prices in the upcoming months due to a convergence of market, climatic, and supply factors that are affecting local and neighbouring states’ potato production and demand

Punjab Crop Delay is Favourable

This year, potato sowing in Punjab has been delayed by about one month due to flood and heavy rainfall conditions, which pushed the start of planting to mid-September instead of August. As a result, Punjab’s early potato crop will reach the market in late November, granting UP farmers an extended period to sell their produce without the usual competition from Punjab. During this interval, demand for local potatoes is set to rise, allowing UP growers a broader market share and more attractive selling rates.

Strong Market Prices in Agra and Surrounding Areas

Market data illustrates stable to rising prices across major potato-producing districts in UP. In Agra, wholesale mandi prices for potatoes stood at approximately ₹1,090–₹1,200 per quintal during the first week of October 2025. Retail pricing is healthy, with rates between ₹20–₹25 per kilogram in local markets. This price is notably higher than rates observed in the months preceding the festive season and signals robust demand.

Strategic Cold Storage and Controlled Release

Many UP farmers have secured their stocks in cold storage facilities, observing the market and waiting for prices to peak. With Punjab’s crop delayed, the local market will remain favorable for several weeks prior to Diwali. Experts encourage farmers to maintain steady withdrawals from cold storage to avoid gluts and make the most of the price surge.

Past Trends and Festive Season Impact

Historically, potato prices tend to rise in the lead-up to Diwali due to increased festival consumption and reduced new harvest arrivals. In comparison to last year, prices are more stable, and the withdrawal rate from cold storage is a bit slower, but the market is expected to heat up as Diwali approaches. Last year saw prices peak at ₹1,500 per packet for a brief period, and while such extremes aren’t guaranteed, the current environment points to better-than-average returns for growers.

Impact of Southern and Eastern Supplies

Earlier in the season, southern India’s Hasan crop dominated non-UP markets, temporarily reducing local demand from those regions. With southern arrivals now diminishing and delayed Punjab supplies, UP potatoes have an open opportunity across local, southern, and even Bengal-bound markets.

Seed Potato and Future Supply

Approximately 15–20% of remaining cold-stored potatoes are earmarked for seed use in the upcoming planting cycle, further tightening bulk supplies for consumption and supporting price firmness ahead.

In summary, UP farmers should look forward to better potato prices in the near future. Delays in Punjab’s crop, strategic release from cold storage, and a favorable demand curve approaching Diwali all point toward a profitable season for Uttar Pradesh’s potato growers.