Just before the farming season, to begin immediately after Monsoon, potato farmers in West Bengal are now exposed to a critical scenario of seed potato. West Bengal contributes around 32% to India's total potato yield. "Officially, WB State Seed Corporation plays the role of seed trading in state.
But, lion's share of farmers is practically dependent on unorganized import of seed,"said Prof. A. Chowdhury DEAN, North Bengal Agriculture University.
"Replacing the previously preferred seed varieties from Punjab or HP, now varieties from Bhutan are in high demand mainly because of less logistic hassle in importing them,"he added.
Indo-Bhutan border is just within 100 km from Jalpaiguri and Cochbehar districts those contribute around 30% to West Bengal's 13.5 Million ton annual production. But, "Developing a critical situation, now supply of Bhutan seed has also become erratic. Too dependent on that, we will be in deep trouble unless quality seed does not reach here in adequate quantity before the sowing season opens in October. Now we cannot shift to Punjab or HP seeds overnight as our entire farming practice has become tuned to Bhutan seeds,"said Mr. D. Mondal, a potato farmer from Dhupguri.
West Bengal potato farmers facing seed potato supply challenges
Like to receive news like this by email? Join and Subscribe!
Get the latest potato industry news straight to your WhatsApp. Join the PotatoPro WhatsApp Community!
Related News
August 03, 2026
China Suspends Seed Potato Import from Zebra Chip Disease Affected Countries
China has introduced new phytosanitary measures to prevent the entry of Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CLso), suspending seed potato import approvals from affected countries and tightening import requirements for planting materials.
August 03, 2026
British Potato Confex 2026 Opens Registration for Major UK Potato Industry Gathering
British Potato Confex 2026 will take place on 18–19 November at Lincolnshire Showground, bringing together growers, suppliers, processors and industry experts for seminars, networking and exhibitions. Free visitor registration is now open.
August 03, 2026
United States lawmakers introduce bill to reform agricultural labor system
United States lawmakers have introduced the 'Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act of 2026,' a bill backed by the National Potato Council to modernize the H-2A program, address labor shortages and improve workforce stability for agriculture.
