Farmers in Nilphamari's Kishoreganj upazila are kickstarting early potato planting, seeking higher profits in the renowned potato-producing region. Farmers in Kishoreganj, renowned for its potato production, have commenced early potato cultivation in anticipation of higher profits. The region, known as "Sutikagar or Aturghar," witnesses farmers eagerly engaging in potato planting on elevated plains with dreams of meeting local market demand and securing better prices.
The local Agriculture Office reports a target of 6,700 hectares for potato cultivation in the upazila this year. Of this, 4,700 hectares are designated for early potato planting, while the remaining 2,000 hectares will be cultivated during the regular season. Farmers have already initiated the process by harvesting paddy and commencing early potato planting.
Kishoreganj upazila's Clayey loam soil, coupled with its minimal water accumulation, makes it ideal for early potato cultivation. Furthermore, the farmers utilize the land for triple cropping, hoping to reap the benefits of planting potatoes ahead of the season. Bina-7 potato variety, ready for harvesting in 55-60 days, is in high demand, fetching double the price of seasonal potatoes and offering substantial profits to farmers.
In different unions of the upazila, early potato planting, predominantly of the Bina-7 variety, is already underway. Farmers aim to harvest potatoes early to capitalize on higher market prices, delivering new potatoes to consumers at the onset of winter. However, unfavorable weather conditions have caused a delay in planting compared to the previous year.
Mochedur Rahman Bherbheri village of Putimari, mentioned the approximate cost of potato cultivation per bigha, around 12,000 to 15,000 taka. If the yield and market prices are favorable, farmers can sell potatoes for 20,000 to 25,000 taka per bigha, yielding significant profits. The adoption of triple cropping allows for increased profit margins.
Abdul Majid, also from Putimari Bherbheri village, highlighted that most early potatoes are sold directly from the field, bypassing costs associated with cold storage and bagging. This approach increases profit margins, and Abdul has allocated three acres of land for potato cultivation.
Shamim Hossain Babu and other farmers have prepared substantial land for early potato planting, with hopes of capitalizing on a profitable season, despite the increased costs of potato seeds and agricultural inputs compared to the previous year. The farmers are optimistic about their prospects.
Upazila agriculture officer Lokman Alam revealed that this year's potato cultivation target in Kishoreganj upazila is 100 hectares larger than last year. With favorable weather conditions, the yield is expected to surpass the previous year's results. Farmers are receiving various recommendations and guidance to enhance their potato cultivation efforts.
