Top 5 Highest Potato Producing States in India

India is one the largest producers of potatoes in the world; it is contributing significantly to global production. Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh rank as the top five potato-producing states. These regions combine favorable climate conditions, fertile soil, and advanced farming techniques that contribute to potato production in India. These states not only produce vast quantities of potatoes but also support the livelihood of millions of farmers. Potato production in India also ensures food security and export potential.

1. Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is the highest producer of potatoes in India. It contributes to approximately 30 -32 per cent of total potato production in India. The contribution of the state is nearly 1/3rd of the total output in India. Agra, Farrukhabad, Kanpur and Meerut in Uttar Pradesh are the highest potato-producing regions in the state. UP has favourable agro-climate conditions, fertile soil and a well-integrated irrigation facility that allows for large-scale production of potatoes in UP. Further, the support from the government for the farmers and modern farming practices has improved the state’s yield year by year.

2. West Bengal

The next state on our list of largest potato-producing states in India is West Bengal. It takes second place in potato production in India. The state contributes to nearly 25 – 27 per cent of total potato output in the country. Hooghly, Burdwan, Bankura, and Purulia of West Bengal are the highest potato-producing regions in the state. Potatoes produced in West Bengal are not only consumed domestically but also exported to neighbouring states and countries. In recent times, the government of West Bengal has taken steps to prevent post-harvest loss through cold storage facilities thereby increasing the production capacity of the state.

3. Bihar

Bihar is also the major producer of potatoes in India. It contributes approximately 10-12 per cent of national potato production in the country. The major potato-producing regions of Bihar are Nalanda, Patna, Vaishali and Purnia Bihar. Nalanda, Vaishali, and Patna are the regions focused on large-scale production of potatoes. Potato farmers of the state receive good support from the government and have improved their farming practices by adopting modern technology and new-age techniques. The state has seen a steady increase in potato production in the last few years. Bihar’s potatoes are known for their good quality, and the state has been investing in agricultural infrastructure like cold storage facilities and transportation networks to support the sector.

4. Gujarat

The state on our list of leading potato production in India is Gujarat. Gujarat contributes to nearly 8-9 per cent of potato production in the country. Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Mehsana and Aravalli Gujarat regions are the highest producers of potatoes in the state. Out of these regions, the contribution to potato production by Banaskantha district is significant. Gujarat’s progressive farming practices, use of advanced technologies, and well-established irrigation infrastructure contribute to its position as one of the top potato-producing states. The state also exports a large portion of its potatoes to other regions.

5. Madhya Pradesh

The last state on our list of the highest producers of potatoes in India is Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh contributes to nearly 6-7 per cent of total potato production in India. The top potato-producing regions of the state are Indore, Dhar, Ujjain, and Dewas. With a focus on sustainable farming practices and an efficient irrigation system, the state makes a significant contribution to overall potato production in India. Madhya Pradesh’s relatively moderate climate and investment in agricultural infrastructure have helped it carve out a place among the leading potato producers in India.

Conclusion

India accounts for the lion’s share of the country’s total potato output. The states like UP and West Bengal are leading in the production of potatoes with their extensive farming practices and favourable agro-climate conditions. On the other hand, Bihar and Gujarat are making improvements in potato production through infrastructure support such as cold storage and technology. Madhya Pradesh, a relatively new player, continues to improve potato production with a focus on sustainable agriculture. The sector’s future looks promising, with continuous investments in modern farming techniques, and irrigation infrastructure ensuring steady growth and sustainability.