Potato

Potatoes are an essential part of Indian cuisine, with demand remaining steady throughout the year. However, this year, potato production has seen a decline, especially in parts of Punjab and Haryana. Despite this, the market prices for potatoes have remained stable and profitable for farmers. Let’s take a closer look at the situation of potatoes in Azadpur Mandi and other major regions.

Potato Production and Market Conditions:

Due to reduced rainfall and high temperatures, potato production in areas like Hoshiarpur and Jalandhar has dropped. However, the dominance of old potatoes continues in the market, and the arrival of new potatoes is gradually increasing.
From old stock, around 23 trucks arrived in the mandis from areas like Aligarh, Sasni, Hathras, and Mathura. These trucks included premium varieties like 'Surya', 'Chipsona', and 'Diamond', with prices ranging from ₹1,200 to ₹1,500 per katta (50 kg) based on quality.

Arrival of Potatoes in the Mandi:

On Saturday, a total of 160 trucks of potatoes arrived at Azadpur Mandi, which was more than previous days.

1. Hoshiarpur (Punjab): 54 trucks
2. Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh): 30 trucks
3. Other areas of Punjab and Haryana: 55 trucks

Potatoes from Hoshiarpur and Sambhal were of superior quality, with better color and size. The new "LR" variety, mainly from Machiwara, Ludhiana, and Pipli, also made a significant impact in the mandi.

Potato Prices in Azadpur Mandi:

1. Chipsona Potato: ₹1,200 to ₹1,400 per katta (50 kg)
2. Surya Potato: ₹1,400 to ₹1,500 per katta (50 kg)
3. Diamond Potato: Limited availability but strong demand due to high quality
4. Aligarh Potato: ₹1,100 per katta (50 kg)
5. LR Potato: ₹28-30 per kg
6. Gulla Potato (small size): ₹1,000 per katta (50 kg)

Comparison of New and Old Potatoes:

New Potatoes:

• Arriving consistently from regions like Machiwara, Ludhiana, and Pipli.
• Improved quality and size.
• Increasing demand in the market.

Old Potatoes:

• The stock of sugar-free (old) potatoes is now limited.
• Despite reduced stock, demand remains steady.
• Traders are selling them at ₹1,200 to ₹1,500 per katta.

Tips for Farmers and Traders

1. Ensure High Quality: There is always a demand for high-quality potatoes.
2. Keep Track of Market Trends: Stay informed about prices and demand across different mandis to make better decisions.
3. Sell at the Right Time: Selling at the right time can help maximize profits.
4. Focus on Storage and Transport: Proper storage and transportation are crucial to maintaining potato quality.

Conclusion: Currently, both old and new potatoes have strong demand in the market. Azadpur Mandi saw better arrivals and higher off-take, although there was a slight dip on Saturday. Potatoes from Punjab and Haryana were of high quality, and farmers and traders should adopt the right strategies to profit from the potato market. Keep monitoring mandi activities for continuous updates and opportunities.

Read More... Potato Farming