Tripura’s government has initiated an ambitious agricultural strategy aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in potato production by the financial year 2029-30. By introducing high-yield potato varieties and innovative cultivation methods, the state seeks to transform its potato farming landscape significantly.
In the financial year 2024-25, 402 farmers across eight districts received Epical Rooted Cuttings (ARC) potato seeds, sourced from Haryana, known for their exceptional yields. The five introduced varieties—Kufri Mohan, Kufri Himalini, Kufri Uday, Kufri Lima, and Kufri Thor-2—have demonstrated significant potential. Previously, 104 farmers trialed these varieties, with notable success stories such as Sajal Bhowmik from Betagaon, South Tripura, achieving a record-breaking yield of 61.2 metric tons per hectare, surpassing traditional productivity rates substantially.
Recognizing the critical role of quality seeds, Tripura’s government procured 40 metric tons of seed potatoes at ₹25 per kilogram through the Tripura Horticulture Corporation. These were distributed to approximately 400 farmers, each receiving 100 kilograms of seed. Encouraged by this initiative’s success, the state government has increased the seed purchase price to ₹28 per kilogram for the subsequent financial year (2025-26), aiming to engage around 4,000 additional farmers.
The ARC method has proven particularly effective, as evidenced by Komal Debnath from Betagaon, who achieved a yield of 51.2 metric tons per hectare. Overall, Tripura’s potato yield for the current year reached an impressive average of 36.5 metric tons per hectare, significantly higher than the traditional yield of 19.16 metric tons per hectare. To safeguard this growth, the government has committed to stringent monitoring measures to prevent the misuse of subsidized seeds.
Globally, similar initiatives have demonstrated substantial benefits from high-yield varieties and innovative cultivation techniques, contributing positively to food security and agricultural sustainability.
Tripura’s proactive approach in adopting high-yield potato varieties and modern farming methods positions the state firmly on the path to potato self-sufficiency. This strategy not only promises improved productivity and economic gains but also strengthens long-term agricultural sustainability.
