Potato (Solanum tuberosum) has become a major cash crop in Bihar, offering farmers a lucrative income source due to:
✔ Favorable climate: Cool, dry winters ideal for potato growth
✔ Soil suitability: Well-drained loamy soils with pH 5.5-6.5
✔ High demand: Rising consumption in domestic and processing markets
Key Potato Varieties for Bihar (2025)
| Variety | Yield Potential (tons/ha) | Best Sowing Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kufri Ashok | 25-30 | Oct-Nov | Disease-resistant, high yield |
| Kufri Sindhuri | 20-25 | Oct-Dec | Good for processing |
| Kufri Chipsona | 22-28 | Oct-Nov | Fast-growing, high starch content |
Step-by-Step Potato Cultivation Guide
1. Seed Selection & Preparation
- Use disease-free, medium-to-large tubers (40-50g per piece)
- Treat seeds with Trichoderma or neem oil to prevent fungal infections
- Seed rate: 3-3.5 quintals per hectare
2. Land Preparation
- Deep ploughing followed by 2-3 harrowings for fine tilth
- Apply 10-15 tons of organic manure (FYM/compost) per hectare
- Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging
3. Sowing Techniques
- Spacing: 60 cm between rows, 20 cm between plants
- Planting depth: 3-4 cm
- Best time: October to December (avoid late planting)
4. Irrigation Management
- First irrigation immediately after sowing
- Drip irrigation recommended for water efficiency (~30% savings)
- Critical stages: Germination, tuber formation, bulking
5. Fertilizer Application (Per Hectare)
- Nitrogen (N): 100-120 kg
- Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 60-80 kg
- Potassium (K₂O): 80-100 kg
- Micronutrients (Zn, B) if soil tests indicate deficiency
6. Disease & Pest Control
- Late blight: Spray Mancozeb (0.2%) or use resistant varieties
- Bacterial wilt: Crop rotation, bio-fungicides
- Aphids/whiteflies: Neem oil or imidacloprid (if severe)
7. Harvesting & Post-Harvest
- Maturity signs: Yellowing of leaves (~90-120 days)
- Yield potential: 20-30 tons/ha (depending on variety)
- Storage: Keep in cool, dark, and ventilated conditions
Emerging Technologies for Bihar’s Potato Farmers
- AI-based crop advisory apps (e.g., Farmonaut) for disease prediction
- Drip irrigation + fertigation for precision nutrient delivery
- Blockchain-based market linkages for better price realization
Challenges & Solutions
Climate risks: Unpredictable winters → Use short-duration varieties
Storage losses: ~20-30% wastage → Promote cold storage cooperatives
Market fluctuations: Tie-ups with FMCG & processing companies
The Future of Potato Farming in Bihar
With improved seeds, smart irrigation, and digital tools, Bihar’s potato farmers can:
Increase yields by 30-40%
Reduce input costs via precision farming
Access better markets through tech-driven supply chains
