Bumper potato harvest brings prosperity to farmers in Una

Farmers in Una district are celebrating a bumper potato harvest this year, coupled with lucrative market prices. An estimated 28,000 metric tonnes of potatoes are expected to be produced, with prices ranging from ₹2,200 to ₹2,800 per quintal. This season, the popular Pukhraj potato variety, known for its high yield, has been widely cultivated, contributing to the region’s success.

Potatoes were sown across 1,800 hectares in Una this year, yielding an average of 250 quintals per hectare. Deputy Director of Agriculture, Kulbhushan Dhiman, noted that the harvest is currently underway. Una’s high-quality potatoes are not only sold in Himachal Pradesh but are also in demand across major markets in Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura, and Uttar Pradesh.

Una’s Potato Legacy and Farmer Success Stories

Una district has carved a niche for itself in large-scale potato farming, with its produce renowned for quality and taste. Farmers are reaping the benefits of this reputation. Sanjeev Kumar, a farmer from Lower Badheda, cultivated potatoes on 120 kanals and is thrilled with the direct farm purchases by traders, saving him extra effort. Regular visits by Agriculture Department officials have further supported farmers by providing crop care advice and pest control measures.

Trader Vijay Kumar from Jalandhar emphasized the growing demand for Una potatoes in various states. He noted that production is steadily increasing each year, reflecting the success of the district’s agricultural efforts.

Boosting the Potato-Based Economy

The Himachal Pradesh government is committed to strengthening the potato-based economy in Una. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvindra Singh Sukhu has initiated measures to revitalize the state’s agricultural economy, focusing on empowering farmers. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has also directed the district administration to devise a comprehensive plan for potato production and marketing.

Drawing parallels with the state’s thriving apple economy, Agnihotri highlighted the untapped potential of a robust potato-based economy. The government aims to create a reliable system that safeguards farmers’ interests, enhances production, and ensures fair market access.

Una’s farmers are optimistic that these efforts will sustain their success, solidifying the district’s reputation as a hub for quality potato cultivation.