Relief to growers as potato trading begins in Ambala

In a major relief to growers, the trading of potato crop has started at the Mohra Grain Market of Ambala Cantonment.

Earlier, the farmers from Ambala had to visit Pipli, Shahabad and Babain grain markets to sell their produce, incurring additional transportation charges.

As per information, this year, 2,460 hectares in the district are under the crop. Around 400 quintal stocks arrived on Friday and the produce fetched Rs 1,050 to Rs 1,155 a quintal, depending upon the quality of the produce.

Last week, the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board issued directions regarding permission to sell and purchase the crop at the Mohra market.

Harjinder Singh, a farmer from Shahpur village, who has grown potato in 50 acres, said, “The trading at Ambala Cantt market has come as a big relief for us. I used to travel to Pipli market, which is about 40 km from here, to sell my produce, while the Mohra market in Ambala is 2 km away. It will not only save time but also fuel expenses. Moreover, the foggy and cold conditions pose a challenge while transporting crop. Potato is fetching better prices compared to last year.”

Rajiv Sharma, a potato grower from Naraingarh, said, “I have grown potato in 5 acres and the crop is about to mature for harvesting. Earlier, I used to go to the Pipli market in Kurukshetra to sell produce and it would cost me over Rs 2,000 per trip. Last year, the cost of production was Rs 600-700 a quintal, and the produce fetched Rs 265-300 a quintal. Transportation from Naraingarh to Pipli had further increased the financial burden, but since potato trading has started at Ambala Cantt market, it will be convenient for the farmers of Ambala.”

Meanwhile, Neeraj Bhardwaj, secretary of the Mohra market, said, “A large number of farmers grow potato in villages near the grain market. Following the request by the farmers, the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board allowed the trading of potato last week. Around 1,200 quintal stock has arrived so far. Due to uncertain weather conditions, the arrivals have been inconsistent and we are expecting them to turn heavy in the coming days.”