Farrukhabad Potatoes Cultivated for Global Markets with Export Promotion Initiative

Pathways to Global Markets for Farrukhabad's Potatoes: Export Promotion Initiative

Farrukhabad, July 22, 2026 - A significant step has been taken to grant Farrukhabad district's potatoes global recognition and open new avenues for export. A crucial initiative was launched during a meeting held at the Collectorate Auditorium, Fatehgarh, under the chairmanship of District Magistrate Dr. Ankur Lather, in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

The primary agenda of the meeting focused on improving the quality of potatoes produced in the district, strengthening marketing strategies, and expanding their reach in international markets. A senior official from APEDA provided detailed information on the export potential of agricultural products and the necessary technical arrangements, sparking hope among farmers for better prices for their produce.

District Magistrate Issues Clear Directives for Export Readiness

District Magistrate Dr. Ankur Lather issued clear instructions, emphasizing that all necessary arrangements for the smooth transit of the district's agricultural products to national and international markets must be completed within the stipulated timelines.

He stressed the urgency of uploading relevant district data to the e-GIM portal, ensuring the uninterrupted availability of high-quality seeds, and broadly encouraging the production of potatoes specifically suitable for export. The District Magistrate believes this endeavor will not only provide farmers with fair economic returns for their hard work but also empower them towards self-reliance and strength, serving as a milestone in the district's overall economic development.

Focus on Farmer Organization and FPO Formation

During the meeting, intensive deliberations were held on the formation of a dedicated Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) to specifically work in the areas of potato production, quality enhancement, and marketing. The primary objective of this step is to bring small and marginal farmers together, granting them collective bargaining power to secure better market prices.

Furthermore, the importance of developing modern grading, packaging, and sorting systems for farmers and traders, along with providing necessary technical assistance, was highlighted. The District Magistrate also directed an exploration into the possibility of establishing a Mango Pulp Unit in Farrukhabad, which could serve as an additional income source for mango producers.

Farrukhabad's Strong Position in Potato Production

Farrukhabad district holds a significant position in potato production. According to data presented at the meeting, potatoes are cultivated across approximately 43,400 hectares, while mangoes are grown on 16.75 hectares. An average annual production of 15.53 lakh metric tons of potatoes firmly establishes Farrukhabad among the leading potato-producing districts in Uttar Pradesh.

APEDA, dedicated to promoting agricultural exports, offers valuable services to farmers such as registration, technical consultancy, market analysis, and training, which will benefit farmers in this region.

Quality Standards and Global Demand for Export

Particular attention to potato quality is crucial for boosting exports. The meeting emphasized that the international market has the highest demand for potatoes sized between 45 to 80 millimeters, which are clean, smooth, and free from any blemishes or deterioration.

As an attractive provision for exporters, a subsidy of up to 25 percent on transportation freight has also been arranged, which will help make exports more affordable and competitive. The Potato Development Officer advised farmers to adopt scientific farming methods, conduct soil fertility testing, and use balanced fertilizers. They also stressed promoting the use of organic fertilizers like vermicompost and green manure to improve soil quality and enhance the nutritional value of the produced potatoes.

New Demand from Russia and Iraq Boosts Farmer Prospects

Currently, Farrukhabad's potatoes are exported to countries such as Saudi Arabia, Nepal, Oman, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Sri Lanka. Recently, a new demand for the 'Kufri Bahar' variety of potato was received from Russia, while Iraq has also granted approval for the import of Indian potatoes.

These new global demands have further expanded export prospects for the district's farmers. APEDA officials shared information about the six packing centers available in the state, noting that farmers can obtain necessary technical assistance from the Varanasi office, facilitating their export processes.