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Low prices dent farmer sentiment, potato acreage in Bengal likely to stall this season
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Thursday, 27 November, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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West Bengal, India’s second-largest potato-producing state, is expected to witness little to no increase in potato acreage this season, as farmers continue to reel under last year’s poor price realisation. According to industry stakeholders and farmer groups, weak market rates through the previous harvesting cycle have discouraged growers from expanding cultivation despite stable demand.
Farmers in key potato belts such as Hooghly, Burdwan, Bankura, and East Midnapore say they struggled to even cover input costs last year, with mandi prices dropping sharply due to surplus arrivals and subdued procurement by traders. Many farmers were forced to sell at distress rates during peak season, while others incurred heavy storage losses due to high cold storage charges and delayed offtake.
Agriculture department officials and cold storage operators confirm that early indicators point to a stagnant or slightly reduced sowing area compared to last year. Farmers are adopting a cautious approach, opting either to maintain the same acreage or switch to alternative crops such as mustard, paddy, or seasonal vegetables that offer relatively better margins and quicker turnaround.
Input costs—particularly seeds, fertilisers, and labour—have also risen, further squeezing profitability. Seed potato prices are reportedly higher this year, adding to the burden for small and marginal growers who already absorbed significant losses in the previous cycle.
Traders warn that if acreage does not rise and weather conditions turn unfavourable, the state could face tighter supplies by early next year. However, they also point out that overproduction in recent years has distorted the market, making farmers reluctant to take risks.
Experts emphasise that stable pricing mechanisms, better cold storage management, and timely government intervention are essential to protect farmer interests. Until then, Bengal’s potato growers appear unwilling to expand cultivation, choosing financial caution over aggressive planting.
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