Bangladesh: Farmers expecting bumper potato output in Rangpur region

According to Md Obaidur Rahman Mondal, Additional Director of the DAE’s Rangpur region, 95,970 hectares, or 94.50 percent of the targeted land, is already under potato cultivation, with sowing ongoing. The sowing period will extend until January next, covering both mainland and char areas across the five districts of the region, namely Rangpur, Gaibandha, Nilphamari, Kurigram, and Lalmonirhat.

Farmers began harvesting early potato varieties in late October after the Aman rice season. The DAE, along with the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, and other organizations, have supported the farmers by providing quality potato seeds and the latest farming technologies. This assistance aims to ensure successful intensive potato farming amidst potential cold waves.

Rahman highlighted the interim government’s efforts in supporting potato and winter crop production by ensuring a smooth supply of fertilizers and other inputs. He mentioned that field officials are actively helping farmers with the latest sowing and nursing techniques to maximize yield.

Farmers like Mohibur and Mofizar Rahman from Rangpur Sadar upazila, who have already begun harvesting their early variety potatoes, expressed optimism about earning maximum profits. Ariful Haque, a potato grower, shared his satisfaction with the current market prices for newly harvested potatoes.

Vegetable traders in Rangpur city reported a steady increase in the supply of newly harvested potatoes, with retail prices ranging between $0.60 and $0.70 per kg, depending on quality and variety. Wholesalers are purchasing potatoes from middlemen and farmers at rates between $0.45 and $0.50 per kg, selling them to retailers at prices ranging from $0.50 to $0.60 per kg.