In a bid to boost potato cultivation during the Rabi season, the Odisha government is accelerating the distribution of high-quality seed potatoes across the state.
With a target of cultivating potatoes on 50,000 acres of land, authentic seeds sourced from Punjab are being provided to farmers at a subsidised rate of Rs 20 per kg, with an additional Rs 10 per kg rebate offered after planting.
So far, approximately 1 lakh quintals of premium seed potatoes have been distributed to farmers in various blocks spanning all 30 districts. Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Department, expressed confidence that the entire distribution process will be completed by the end of November. “We are committed to ensuring farmers receive these seeds on time to maximise yields,” Dr Padhee stated.
Farmers are urged to treat the seeds properly and adopt improved planting techniques to enhance productivity. The initiative is being closely monitored by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Energy, Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who is personally overseeing every aspect of the program.
During a key meeting held today at Krushi Bhawan, chaired by Dr Padhee, the focus was on maintaining quality standards and adhering to timelines. Attendees included Director of Horticulture Shri Kalunge Gorakh Waman, Managing Director of Odisha State Seed Corporation Shri Niti Ranjan Sen, and senior officers from the agriculture and horticulture departments. Discussions highlighted the favourable climatic conditions in Odisha, which are expected to contribute to a successful potato harvest.
This effort underscores the state’s push towards agricultural self-sufficiency, empowering farmers with reliable inputs to meet growing demands.
