Key Highlights

• Potato prices have sharply increased across Afghanistan
• Many families can no longer afford basic meals
• Job losses and border closures are worsening the situation
• Over 17 million people need urgent food support

People in Afghanistan are facing growing trouble as food prices continue to rise. Potatoes, once a cheap and common food, are now out of reach for many families. At the same time, job opportunities remain low, making daily life harder.

Food Prices Climb Across Regions

Residents from different provinces say potato prices vary but remain high everywhere. In Kabul, one seer costs about 400 afghanis. Prices in Badakhshan and Takhar are between 350 and 400 afghanis. In Mazar-e-Sharif, it is around 300 afghanis, while in Herat it has reached 420 afghanis.

Even in Ghor, prices differ, with five kilograms costing between 170 and 250 afghanis. These rising costs are making it hard for families to manage even basic meals.

Families Cut Down on Food

Many people say they have already removed items like rice and meat from their meals. Now, potatoes are also disappearing from their plates. For low-income families, potatoes were often the main food.

A Kabul resident shared that she stopped buying potatoes due to high prices and chose cheaper vegetables instead. She said even people with income are struggling to prepare proper meals.

Others say potatoes now cost almost as much as meat, which makes them unaffordable for most households.

Also read: Potato Storage Diseases and Simple Prevention

Jobs and Supply Issues Add Pressure

Unemployment remains a major issue across the country. People say they do not have enough income to keep up with rising prices.

Some residents believe that border closures with Pakistan and ongoing regional tensions have affected supply, leading to price increases. Farmers also face problems such as lack of proper storage, which limits local supply.

Warnings of a Growing Hunger Crisis

The World Food Programme has warned that the situation is getting worse. According to the agency, about 17.4 million people in Afghanistan need urgent food help.

Child malnutrition is also rising, with millions of children expected to need treatment this year. Many residents fear that if prices continue to rise, hunger will spread further.

With prices still rising and jobs hard to find, many Afghan families are left with fewer food choices each day. If the situation does not improve, more people may face serious hunger in the coming months.

Image Credit: javier albuja on Unsplash
News source: 8am media

Potato is one of the most important food crops grown in India. It supports daily food needs, farm income and local markets across the country. From small farmers to large producers, potatoes play a vital role in Indian agriculture. India is among the top potato-producing nations, yet yield levels differ widely between regions.

One major reason for this difference is the choice of variety. Many farmers continue using older or local varieties that may not match current climate conditions or market needs. Over time, this leads to lower output, faster seed degeneration and higher disease risk.

To improve productivity, Indian research institutes have released several best high-yield potato varieties. These varieties are developed for specific regions, seasons and purposes, such as table use or processing. When farmers choose the right variety for their state and climate, they often see better yield without increasing input costs.

This article provides a detailed overview of the best high-yield potato varieties in India and a list of potato varieties in India. It covers yield range, maturity period, disease response, end use and state-wise suitability, based on verified data and official sources.

Why Potato Variety Selection Is Important

Potato yield is strongly influenced by the genetic traits of a variety. Some varieties form more tubers per plant, while others produce larger tubers. Certain varieties handle heat, water stress or disease better than others.

India has varied growing conditions. Northern plains, hill regions, eastern states and warmer central and southern areas all differ in temperature and soil. A variety that performs well in Punjab may not give the same result in Karnataka or Bihar.

Choosing a suitable variety helps farmers improve yield stability, reduce crop loss and meet market demand. It also helps maintain seed quality over multiple seasons.

Source of High Yield Potato Varieties in India

Most high yield potato varieties in India are developed by the ICAR – Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI). These varieties are tested across locations before release and are recommended for specific regions.

Most of them carry the “Kufri” name and are widely grown by farmers across the country.

Also read: India Potato Exports to Indonesia in 2025 – Market Trends & Price Outlook

High Yield Potato Varieties in India

Kufri Sindhuri

Kufri Sindhuri is grown in Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

• Maturity: 110–120 days
• Average yield: 30–40 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Medium, round, red skin, deep eyes
• Disease response: Tolerant to late blight and PLRV
• Use: Table purpose, limited processing

It shows a slow rate of seed degeneration and tolerates heat and water stress to some extent.

Kufri Chandramukhi

This variety is grown in Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

• Maturity: 80–90 days
• Average yield: 25 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Large, oval, white flesh
• Use: Instant flakes and chips

It is suitable for short-duration cropping.

Kufri Jyoti

Kufri Jyoti performs well in both plains and hills.

• Maturity: 90–100 days
• Average yield: 20 t/ha in hills, 25–30 t/ha in plains
• Tuber traits: Large, oval, white flesh
• Disease response: Moderate tolerance to early and late blight
• Use: Table and processing

It shows slow seed degeneration.

Kufri Lauvkar

This variety suits warmer regions such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka.

• Maturity: 75–80 days
• Average yield: 25–30 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Large, round, white flesh
• Use: Chips

It builds yield quickly under warm conditions.

Kufri Badshah

Kufri Badshah is a high output variety grown widely in Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

• Maturity: 100–110 days
• Average yield: 40–50 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Large, oval, dull white flesh
• Disease response: Resistant to PVX, moderate tolerance to blight
• Use: Table purpose

Tubers may turn purple on light exposure.

Kufri Bahar

Kufri Bahar is grown in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

• Maturity: 100–110 days
• Average yield: 35–45 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Large, round-oval, white
• Use: Table purpose

It shows slow seed degeneration.

Kufri Lalima

Kufri Lalima is a red-skinned variety grown mainly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

• Maturity: 100–110 days
• Average yield: 35–40 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Red skin, round shape
• Disease response: Resistant to PVY
• Use: Table purpose

It is not suitable for processing.

Kufri Jawahar

This variety fits well into intensive cropping systems.

• Maturity: 80–90 days
• Average yield: 40 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Medium, round-oval, pale yellow flesh
• Use: Table purpose

It shows moderate tolerance to late blight.

Kufri Sutlej

Kufri Sutlej is grown in Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

• Maturity: 90–100 days
• Average yield: 40 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Large, oval, white flesh
• Use: Table purpose

It has moderate tolerance to late blight.

Also read: Top 10 Potato Producing States in India

Kufri Ashoka

Kufri Ashoka is an early maturing variety.

• Maturity: 70–80 days
• Average yield: 35–40 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Oval-long, white flesh
• Disease response: Susceptible to late blight
• Use: Table purpose

Kufri Pukhraj

Kufri Pukhraj is one of the highest yielding early varieties in India.

• Maturity: 70–90 days
• Average yield: 35–40 t/ha
• Tuber traits: Large, yellow flesh
• Disease response: Resistant to early blight
• Use: Table purpose

Kufri Chipsona-1 and Kufri Chipsona-2

These varieties are grown mainly for processing.

• Maturity: 90–110 days
• Average yield:
  • Chipsona-1: 35–40 t/ha
  • Chipsona-2: 30–35 t/ha
• Traits: Low sugar, good frying quality
• Use: Chips and French fries

They tolerate frost and late blight.

Kufri Anand

Kufri Anand suits the plains of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

• Maturity: 100–110 days
• Average yield: 35–40 t/ha
• Use: French fries

State-Wise High Yield Potato Variety Chart

Northern India

Eastern India

Central and Western India

Southern India

Exotic Varieties

Some imported varieties, such as Russet Burbank and Katahdin are used mainly for processing and research trials in India. They are not widely grown commercially.

Also read: Best Potato Farming Practices in India: From Planting to Harvest

Conclusion

India has many high-yield potato varieties suited for different regions and uses. Choosing the right variety based on climate, season and market demand helps farmers achieve better output without extra input cost. Verified Kufri varieties remain a reliable choice for stable and productive potato farming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Image credit: Potato Insights
Research sources:

Potato – Varieties PDF (National Horticulture Board)
Lists official potato varieties and yield details used by farmers in India.

Top 10 Potato Varieties Cultivated in India – TractorKarvan
Provides yield figures and regions for many Indian potato varieties.

India approves four new ICAR-CPRI potato varieties – FreshPlaza
Shows yield data for new varieties like Kufri Chipbharat-1 (35–38 t/ha).

High yield research on Kufri Mohan variety (ResearchGate)
Academic summary showing ~35–40 t/ha yield for Kufri Mohan.

Potatoes are one of the most widely grown food crops in the world. They are grown for daily meals, food supply chains and farm income. From small family farms to large commercial operations, potatoes play a key role in food systems across many regions. Because of this, farmers are always looking for better ways to grow them with stable output and lower risk.

For decades, traditional potato farming has relied on soil, open fields, rainfall and irrigation. This method is familiar and still used by most growers today. At the same time, farming faces pressure from limited water, rising input costs, plant diseases and shrinking land near cities. These issues have pushed interest toward controlled growing systems.

Aeroponic potato farming is one such system. Instead of soil, plants grow with their roots hanging in the air and receiving a fine nutrient spray. This method is often used indoors or in greenhouses. It aims to save water, reduce disease and increase output per plant, especially for seed potato production. This article compares aeroponics and traditional potato farming in simple terms. It looks at costs, yields, water use, space needs and practical benefits.

What Is Traditional Potato Farming?

Traditional potato farming uses soil on farms. Farmers prepare land, add seeds to soil, water with rain or irrigation and apply fertilizer and water. Good land and weather help plants grow. Thoughtful care controls pests and disease.

A typical yield for potatoes in open fields can be about 25–30 tonnes per hectare. For example, in India, average potato output was around 24.5 tonnes per hectare in recent years. This number can change by region, soil type and climate.

Costs of Traditional Farming

• Land cost and preparation
• Seed tubers purchase
• Irrigation and water use
• Fertilizers and sprays for pests
• Labour for planting and harvest

Traditional farming uses a lot of water and space. It can have soil disease issues and seed degeneration over time. Many farmers reuse seeds that carry disease, lowering output.

Also read: Top 10 Potato Producing States in India

What Is Aeroponic Potato Farming?

Aeroponic farming grows potatoes without soil. Roots hang in air and get a fine mist of water with nutrients. The system runs in greenhouses or controlled spaces.

Aeroponic setups can cost more to start. Basic small systems may range from roughly ₹2,00,000 to ₹3,00,000 for a small indoor area in India. Larger commercial systems can reach around ₹25,00,000 to ₹30,00,000 or more, depending on size and control systems.

How It Works

• Roots hang and get sprayed
• Nutrient mist feeds plants directly
• Climate often controlled for best growth
• No soil means fewer soil pests

Aeroponic systems may use pumps, tanks and timers to repeat misting at set times. These parts use electricity and need care.

Comparing Yields

Output in Traditional Farming

Traditional field potatoes can yield around 25–30 tonnes per hectare under good conditions.

Output in Aeroponic Farming

Studies show aeroponic methods can give more plants or mini tubers per plant than soil systems in greenhouses.

• Some research reports 2 to 5 times more tubers per plant in aeroponics compared to conventional greenhouse systems.
• Aeroponic setups often produce many mini tubers for seed production — around 30–40 mini tubers per plant or in some cases even more, compared to smaller numbers in soil systems.

This is a major advantage when the goal is seed production, as more healthy seed tubers make scaling easier.

So, even if full field yield numbers differ from mini tuber counts, aeroponic systems often produce more output per plant in controlled setups.

Comparing Costs

Upfront and Running Costs

Traditional:

• Land and water costs can be high.
• Less tech cost, but more labour.

Aeroponics:

• Higher setup cost for lights, pumps and chambers.
• Lower water use and fewer soil pests.
• Electricity and nutrient solution are ongoing costs.

One academic study noted that for seed tuber production, the cost per tuber in aeroponic systems can be about one-fourth of traditional methods because of less disease and faster cycles.

Also read: The Journey of McDonald’s French Fries From Farm to Fryer

Water and Space Use

Aeroponic systems can use 90% less water than traditional soil systems because they recirculate water mist and reduce waste.

Benefits of Each Method

Traditional System

• Familiar and widely used
• Works on open fields
• Good for large bulk production

Aeroponic System

• Higher plant output per space
• Uses less water
• Fewer soil diseases and pests
• Produces consistent seeds for future planting

Practical Use Cases

Best For Field Harvest

Large farms growing millions of tubers for sale and storage often use soil systems. These are suited for wide land areas with good water sources.

Best For Seed Production

Aeroponic systems can make large numbers of healthy seed tubers quickly. This is useful for seed farms or regions with limited land.

Conclusion

Both aeroponic and traditional potato farming have roles. If the goal is large field production, soil farming still works well. For seed tubers and efficient use of water and space, aeroponic systems offer clear benefits. Farmers should match methods to their goals, land and budget.

Also read: India Potato Exports to Indonesia – Market Trends & Price Outlook

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Image credit: Potato Insights
Research sources:

• Potato production in aeroponics research — SciELO article (data on yield differences) Potato production in aeroponics research (turn0search0)
• Aeroponics farming in India cost guide — Sheel Biotech Aeroponics farming in India explained (turn0search3)
• Aeroponics vs conventional mini tuber numbers — Agriculture Journals PDF Comparison of aeroponics and conventional system (turn0search14)
• Cost comparison in potato seed production — ScienceDirect Aeroponic vs traditional cost study (turn0search23)
• Aeroponic seed benefits — Peer Journals review Review on aeroponics seed production (turn0search5)
• Aeroponics sustainable farming overview — MDPI review Systematic review of aeroponics (turn0search29)

Key Highlights

• Cuttack farmers still avoiding potato farming despite support
• Cold storage gaps and late paddy harvest cited as main issues
• District target set at 800 acres for this season
• Seed potatoes offered at a lower price with an added refund

Cuttack district may not reach its potato planting target this season. Even though farmers are being offered cheaper seed potatoes and other support, many say they are not ready to grow the crop due to storage gaps and late harvesting of paddy.

Falling Area Over the Years

Potatoes are mainly grown in Salepur, Mahanga, Nischintakoili, Cuttack Sadar, Banki, Athagarh, Kantapada and Niali blocks because the soil suits the crop.

More than a decade ago, in 2012–2013, Cuttack topped the state in potato output with nearly 2,910 hectares under the crop, giving almost 23% of Odisha’s total supply.

But since then, the area has dropped for many reasons, lack of working cold stores, shifting weather and crop loss caused by animals. Last year, the district had aimed for 575 hectares but managed only around 438 hectares.

Fresh Push, Old Worries

This year, the horticulture directorate has set a goal of 800 acres for potato planting in the district. To help farmers take up the crop, the department began giving better seed potatoes at a lower rate. Still, farmers remain unsure. Potato planting usually begins in the last week of November, after paddy is cleared from the fields. One crop cycle takes about 100 to 120 days.

But it is already December and paddy has not been removed in many places because sowing was late. Farmers fear the delay will push potato planting beyond the ideal window.

They also worry about the weather. By mid-February, winter weakens and farmers say that warmer days may affect potato growth, which needs cooler conditions for proper tuber formation.

Cold Storage Failure Adds to Fear

A major concern is storage. Farmers say there is no working cold storage to keep potatoes after harvest. Without proper storage, they would have to sell at low prices. Cold stores at Bahugram in Salepur, 42 Mouza in Cuttack Sadar, Nisthipur in Banki, Lakheswar in Niali and Athagarh, set up long ago are no longer in working condition.

RELATED: How Better Packaging Extends Shelf Life for Potato Products

Officials Explain the Support

Deputy Director of Horticulture for Cuttack, Sandul Rama Rao, said seed potatoes are being given at a reduced price.

“We bought the seeds at ₹42.27 per kg and are giving them to farmers at ₹20 per kg. After they share GPS photos of their planted fields at the block office, they can also get a ₹10 per kg refund,” he said.

With the planting window shrinking and storage concerns still unsolved, farmers say they cannot risk potato farming this year. Unless cold stores are fixed and paddy is cleared on time, the district may fall short of its goal again.

Source: The New Indian Express
Image credit: engin akyurt on Unsplash

Key Highlights

• Potato area in Ukraine grew by 25% for the 2025 season
• Better weather lifted yields by another 25%
• Total output may be about 50% higher than last year
• Imports rose earlier due to drought in 2024

Ukraine may end the 2025 season with a potato harvest that is about half higher than last year. Mykola Furdyga, head of the Potato Institute, said the increase comes from a larger planted area and better weather during the growing months.

How Output Increased This Year

According to Furdyga, farmers planted 25% more land with potatoes this season. On top of that, weather conditions raised yields by another 25%.

He explained the growth in simple terms: last year, the farm price was around 20 UAH per kilo, but this year it stayed close to 8 UAH per kilo. That drop in price, he said, shows how much more supply is available in the market.

He shared these details at a meeting on potato sector development and the future of processing plants in the Volyn region.

Why Ukraine Saw High Imports Earlier

Ukraine brought in more than 123,000 tons of potatoes in the 2024–2025 marketing year. Furdyga said the large import flow was caused by the weather in 2024, when the country faced a strong dry spell.

Because fields produced less, the state had to import potatoes to meet food needs. Supplies from Europe came in at prices buyers found fair. Egypt kept its regular place in the market during the late winter months, as usual.

He added that Ukraine still buys seed potatoes from top seed companies in the European Union, as is normally done each year.

RELATED: The Truth About Potato Peel Waste Around the World

Change in Who Is Growing Potatoes

Since the start of the war, potato growing has shifted. In many villages, fewer people are planting potatoes in their home plots. Some moved away, while others joined the armed forces.

Furdyga said there are places in Vinnytsia and Zhytomyr where households once planted around 30 hectares together, but now they plant only about 2 hectares. He said home production has become hard and less rewarding, which is pushing more growing activity toward farms and larger companies.

Share of Local Potato Types

Local potato types make up about 10–12% of national output. Most of these types are grown by small farmers.

Still, a few farms planted domestic types in the 2025 season, including Biotech Ltd. and Brovary Kartoplya Ltd. in Kyiv region and STOV Desna in Chernihiv region. Together, they grew local types on about 300 hectares for future sale.

Last Season’s Lower Output

In 2024, dry weather pushed Ukraine’s potato harvest down by about 4 million tons. The total reached nearly 17.36 million tons, down from around 21.36 million tons in 2023.

If the 2025 numbers continue as expected, Ukraine’s potato sector may see a much better season, helped by more planted land and kinder weather.

Source: Ukraine Open For Business
Image credit: JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Potato is one of the most common food crops in India and a regular part of daily meals in both villages and cities. Many people call it the “poor man’s friend” because it is easy to cook, easy to store and gives good nutrition at a low cost. It provides starch, vitamin C, vitamin B1 and minerals that fit well in everyday food.

Farmers across India grow potato mainly in the rabi season. The crop supports food supply, market demand and farm income in many states. In the 2024-25 season, India’s potato output reached about 60.18 million tonnes, which shows how important this crop remains.

As demand grows for fresh potatoes and also for chips, fries and other processed items, farmers want simple and effective ways to improve their crop. Clean seed, good field work, proper plant nutrition and the use of basic planting machines are some of the steps that help. This updated potato farming guide explains these methods using recent data and practical field knowledge.

Updated Global Potato Outlook (2024–2025)

Potato demand is rising around the world, and many countries are working to increase production to meet this need. Recent estimates for the season show the scale of potato farming across major regions.

• India
  According to recent estimates, India’s potato production in 2024-25 reached around 60.18 million tonnes. Even official early estimates projected about 59.57 million tonnes for 2024-25, up 4.4% from the previous year.
  
• China
  China remains the largest potato producer in the world. For the 2025-26 season, its production is expected to reach about 101.1 million tonnes.
  
• United States
  Potato growers in the U.S. produced around 412 million cwt, a small drop of about 2.2% from the previous year. This decline mainly comes from lower planted area in some states, even though the average yield per acre has improved slightly.
  
• European Union (EU)
  The EU expects potato acreage to rise by roughly 5.5% for the 2025-26 season. This may help keep yields stable or slightly higher in major producing countries such as Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands.
  France is set to reach around 9 million tonnes, which is about 7% higher than last year.
  
• Russia
  Russia is likely to harvest about 7.5 million tonnes in 2025. This is better than 2024 but still below the levels seen in 2023.
  

In India, some states show much higher yield per hectare than older national averages. For example, in one top producing state, yields have reached over 32 tonnes per hectare in many districts.

This rise shows that with good practices seed, soil, water and care, potato farming remains a strong income source and meets rising demand.

RELATED: Top 10 Potato Producing States in India

Why Solid Farming Practices Matter

Potato grows fast but also reacts fast to problems: poor soil, bad seed, uneven planting, pest or water stress, all can cut yield sharply. But recent high production proves that many farmers can get good results when they follow simple, solid steps. That includes good seed, correct soil prep, plant care and increasingly,  smart use of machines.

Popular Varieties (Short / Medium / Long Season)

Farmers still use many of the trusted varieties. For short, medium and long-duration crops in India:

• Early (about 70-90 days): Kufri Pukhraj, Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Ashoka
• Medium (about 90-100 days): Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Anand, Chipsona (1,2,3),  good for chips / fries due to lower sugar level
• Late (about 110-130 days): Kufri Giriraj, Kufri Sinduri

Variety must match your climate, soil, water supply and market goal (fresh vegetable vs processing).

Land Preparation & Soil Requirements

Potato needs loose, well-drained soil. Best fields are sandy-loam or loam with good organic matter. These help roots grow, water drain and tubers expand well.

Typical land work before planting:

• One or two deep ploughings (25-30 cm)
  
• Harrowing or cross-cultivation to break clods
  
• Ridge + furrow or raised bed layout to help drainage and ease planting
  

Adding organic manure or compost helps soil health and supports good early growth.

Seed Selection, Pre-sprouting & Treatment

Good seed is key. For planting:

• Use clean, healthy tubers of 30-60 g
  
• If tubers are bigger, cut so each piece has 2-3 eyes (sprouts)
  
• Discard any showing spots, soft rot, scab or pest damage
  

Seed rate:  600-800 kg per acre (varies by field and region)

Pre-sprouting (chitting):

• Keep tubers in cool, shaded room for 1-2 weeks after cold storage
  
• Optionally treat with hormone (e.g. gibberellic acid) to get quick sprouts
  
• Let tubers dry in shade after treatment before planting
  

Seed treatment before sowing:
Some farmers use safe seed-treat products to avoid early fungal issues. Spray, let dry, then plant. This reduces early losses and gives better tuber quality.

Planting: Depth, Spacing & Machine Use

Correct planting helps yield:

• Planting depth:  5 cm under soil, shallow planting may cause greening, poor tuber formation, pest damage.
  
• Spacing: Rows  60 cm apart, plants 10-15 cm on ridge top. Ridges 30-40 cm wide.
  

Use of Machine Planters

More farmers now use potato-planter machines or sweet potato-planter machines. Benefits:

• Seed placed at correct depth and spacing
  
• Uniform sowing across the field
  
• Saves labour and time, many hectares planted quickly
  
• Helps avoid human error in spacing
  

This makes planting easier and often improves overall crop uniformity and yield.

RELATED: Smart Packaging Trends Changing the Potato Chips and Snacks Market

Irrigation, Nutrition & Crop Care

Potato needs consistent but not excessive water. Watering plan:

• Light irrigation a day before planting
  
• Another after planting
  
• Then water every 6-8 days depending on soil and weather
  
• Stop irrigation 7-10 days before haulm removal (pre-harvest)
  

Drip irrigation works very well water goes directly near roots, reduces waste, helps maintain even moisture and lowers disease chances from too-wet leaves.

Nutrient need per hectare (common guideline):

• Nitrogen: 120-150 kg
  
• Phosphorus: 60-80 kg
  
• Potassium: 80-100 kg
  
• Sulphur: 20-25 kg
  
• Zinc (if soil is low): 5-10 kg
  

Apply half the nitrogen at planting, rest after 30 days. Others mostly at planting.

Also watch weeds, pests (aphids, moths) and fungal diseases. Light weeding, regular monitoring and timely safe sprays help.

Earthing Up (Inter-cultural Operation)

Earthing up covers the forming tubers, protects them from light (avoids greening) and reduces pest risk. Recommended schedule:

• First earthing up: 20-25 days after planting
  
• Second: 40-45 days after planting
  

Good field care at this stage helps tubers grow evenly and strengthens plant support.

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

When leaves start yellowing and drying, the crop is ready. Correct harvest steps:

• Stop irrigation 7-10 days before haulm removal
  
• Cut haulms so skin hardens
  
• Use manual tools or mechanical harvesters (common in larger farms)
  
  • Mechanical harvesters dig and gently lift tubers with less damage
    
  • Sweet potato-type harvesters are used for delicate tubers
    

After harvest, keep tubers in shade so they dry a bit avoid direct sun. For long storage or bulk sale, use a cool, dark storage (cold rooms) to avoid sprouting or rot.

With good care, farms are getting strong yield and good-quality tubers.

Why Is Promising for Potato Farming in India

• Production at national level has reached record highs 60 million tonnes.
• Some states, with good practices and processing demand, show yield 32 t/ha or more.
• Demand for processed potatoes (chips, fries, etc.) is growing good sign for farmers who grow processing-grade varieties and use proper farming methods. 
• Use of machines (planters, harvesters) reduces labour, speeds work and gives better uniformity helpful for both small and large farms.
  

Thus, a mix of traditional good field practices + modern tools + right variety + proper care can make potato farming more rewarding than ever.

RELATED: The Truth About Potato Peel Waste Around the World

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Image credit: Potato Insights
Research sources:

Potato production projected at 59.57 million tonnes in 2024-25 – Business-Standard
Gujarat leads in processed potato production – news articles & state reports
Agricultural yield data for potato in Gujarat – CEIC data
Study on value chain of potato in India – Plant Archives journal
Some recent analyses show that over the past decades, area under potato cultivation, total production and yield have gradually risen – RSIS International
ICAR potato guides

Key Highlights:

• First field tests for CRISPR starch potatoes were done in Sweden and Denmark.
• Seed work is under way to prepare for wider field trials in 2026.
• The project includes 12 partners from Europe’s starch potato chain.
• Early signs show strong late blight tolerance in the new lines.

Project Opportunity has finished its first field tests for CRISPR-based starch potatoes in Sweden and Denmark. The work is focused on late blight, a major disease that affects potato crops each year. The early tests took place during the 2025 season and showed clear progress.

The team behind Project Opportunity includes 12 partners from across Europe. Each group works in a different part of the starch potato chain and they are all working together to move new breeding methods forward in a simple, safe and clear way.

The first step was to create seedlings in the greenhouse last year. These seedlings were grown to form small seed-tubers. From these, the group planted what they call mini-tubers in open fields in 2025. This first round of tests gave them a chance to see how the plants behave outside the greenhouse and how they stand up against late blight.

Also read: Japan’s Potato Chips Market Set to Reach $7B by 2035

Hans Berggren, secretary of the project, said the group worked closely to carry out the improvement using new breeding tools. He noted that the team moved from early seedlings to field growth in a short time.

He said he feels good about the progress and hopes that by 2026, people will be able to see the results for themselves in full field trials. He also said the work shows how fast these tools can help potatoes deal with changing weather and disease pressure.

Along with the field work, seed multiplication is also taking place. This simply means making more seed so the team can plant larger areas next year. The wider trials planned for 2026 will help check which line offers the strongest and most stable late blight resistance.

Sjefke Allefs, a potato breeder at Agrico, explained that it will still take a few more years to confirm the results. He said the group needs time to find the single line that gives the best late blight tolerance. Once that line is confirmed, it can support starch potato farming in a more steady way.

Agrico supplied the potato type called Kuras for the project. It is a well-known starch variety in Europe. Under Project Opportunity, this variety has now been improved with the new breeding tools and is performing well so far.

The next step will be the larger tests set for 2026. The results from those trials will show how well the new potato lines hold up in real farm settings and how they may help growers in the years ahead.

Source: Seed World
Image: by Akshat Jhingran on Unsplash

Key Highlights:

• Belgium expects a record five million tonnes of potatoes in 2025.
• Farmers face falling prices due to lower exports and strong competition.
• US tariffs and a strong euro have hurt frozen fries sales.
• Industry experts say the Belgian fries sector is entering a reset phase.

Belgium, famous for its fries, is set to harvest a record five million tonnes of potatoes this year. But instead of celebration, farmers are worried. The large yield has pushed prices down as exports slow and global competition grows.

The country’s potato output has jumped 11 percent from last year, close to half a tonne per person. The rise follows years of expansion in farmland driven by demand from Belgium’s powerful frozen fries industry. But this success story now faces trouble abroad.

Belpotato’s secretary, Pierre Lebrun, said foreign markets are buying fewer European fries. The United States has added tariffs, the euro’s strength has made exports less profitable and Asian producers are catching up. India, China and Egypt have become strong players in recent years, putting pressure on Europe’s top fries exporter.

Belgium’s fries industry has long been a symbol of national pride. From small diners called “friteries” to large factories, the sector has grown rapidly over the past decade. In 2024, the country exported more than three billion euros worth of cooked and frozen potato products, triple the amount in 2015, according to Eurostat.

Demand for fries has long followed global fast-food growth. “When the middle class grows, so does the demand for fries,” said Belgapom’s head, Christophe Vermeulen. Every new fast-food outlet needs fries, he added.

Rising demand pushed farmers to expand. Many bought or leased more land to plant potatoes. Across Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Germany, potato fields grew by around seven percent this year, after a similar rise last year.

But the expansion has backfired. With production soaring and exports slowing, the free market price for potatoes has crashed to about 15 euros a tonne, down from last year’s peak of 600 euros. Farmers now find themselves with full fields and little reward.

Baudouin Dewulf, a farmer in Geer, eastern Belgium, said the market is “saturated.” Behind him, harvesters loaded piles of potatoes onto waiting trucks. For many farmers, contracts with fries producers still offer some protection, but others may face heavy losses or rethink their investment plans.

Vermeulen said the Belgian potato industry is now in “reset mode.” Producers will likely review their contracts, spending and export strategies as they prepare for a tougher year ahead.

Belgium’s record harvest shows the sharp edge of success. What began as a booming fries market has now turned into a warning for farmers who expanded too fast. With prices falling and global rivals growing stronger, the country’s once-celebrated potato trade faces a period of correction and uncertainty.

Source: kten.com
Image credit: Pexels by Engin Akyurt

Key Highlights

• Farmers in Dinajpur face fertilizer prices higher than government rates
• Dealers accused of refusing vouchers and inflating market prices
• Potato seed costs dropped sharply this year, easing some expenses
• Authorities say they will act if overpricing is proven

The early potato farming season has started in Dinajpur, with fields now filled with varieties like Bina-7, Sunshine and Stariz. While good weather has helped farmers sow and tend to their land, a syndicate controlling fertilizer prices is causing distress. Many growers say they are being forced to pay far more than the government’s fixed rates, leaving them with extra costs at crucial time.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), about 11,000 hectares in Dinajpur are under early potato cultivation this year. Farmers were initially relieved when potato seed prices fell drastically. Unlike previous years, when seed prices were often much higher than official rates, this year’s seeds are available for as low as Tk15–16 per kilogram. This drop in seed costs has reduced some of the farming burden.

But that relief is being overshadowed by rising fertilizer prices. Farmers say dealers are charging more than the government’s fixed rates, making it difficult to manage their expenses. Officially, government set prices for key fertilizers as follows:

• TSP at Tk1,250, but sold at Tk1,350
• DAP at Tk950, but sold at Tk1,050
• MOP at Tk900, but sold at Tk1,000
• Urea at Tk1,250, but sold at Tk1,350

The problem is worse with imported fertilizers. Tunisian TSP is being sold at Tk2,000 per bag, local TSP at Tk2,400, Moroccan DAP at Tk1,700–1,800, local DAP at Tk2,000 and Canadian MOP at Tk1,200.

Farmers complain that even after paying these inflated amounts, they are not given purchase vouchers. Dealers reportedly claim that stock is low, which forces farmers to buy without receipts. Without a voucher, growers have no legal proof of purchase, leaving them vulnerable to further exploitation.

Jewel Islam, a farmer from Ghughudanga village in Sadar upazila, shared his frustration. He said dealers are openly ignoring the fixed prices and refusing to issue vouchers when asked. “We have no choice but to buy at higher prices,” he said.

While fertilizer prices rise, labor costs have stayed the same as last year, offering a small relief. Farmers are hopeful that within 50-55 days, they will be able to harvest. If all goes well, they expect yields of 140-150 maunds per acre.

Early planting is common in Dinajpur as it allows farmers to sell their crops before the main harvest season, often fetching better prices in the market.

Despite repeated efforts, no fertilizer dealer agreed to speak publicly. A former leader of the BADC Seed and Fertilizer Dealers Association admitted that the fall in potato seed prices was genuine but confirmed that a syndicate is inflating fertilizer costs.

“Even if someone wants to act independently, it’s not possible under the current system,” he said.

Government officials have responded cautiously. Attempts to contact Md Jahangir Alam, joint director (Fertilizer), went unanswered. But Md Afzal Hossain, deputy director of the Dinajpur DAE, said the department would take steps if reports of overpricing are proven true. “Our monitoring teams are actively inspecting the field,” he noted.

Farmers, however, are skeptical. They say investigations have been promised in the past, but the syndicates remain in control. They question why they should carry the burden of higher costs when the government has already set official fertilizer prices.

Dinajpur farmers are heading into the early potato season with mixed feelings. The drop in seed prices has helped, but inflated fertilizer costs are draining their limited resources. With no receipts to prove purchases and dealers refusing to follow government rules, many fear their profits will be wiped out before harvest even begins.

Farmers are calling for swift action to break the grip of fertilizer syndicates and protect their livelihoods.

Source: Dhaka Tribune
Image credit: Dhaka Tribune