Potato glut in Tripura exposes price crash challenges despite high yields. Farmers demand better storage access, stronger market linkages, and efficient supply chains to prevent distress sales and ensure sustainable agricultural income across key farming regions.
Farmers across several regions of Tripura, particularly in Jolaibari, are witnessing a paradoxical situation this harvesting season. While potato production has been encouraging and farmers are satisfied with the yield, the market scenario has turned unfavourable due to low prices and inadequate access to storage facilities.
The bumper production has led to a supply glut, pushing down farmgate prices and leaving many farmers distressed. Without immediate selling options or affordable storage access, cultivators are being forced to sell their produce at throwaway prices. Despite the presence of government-supported infrastructure, many farmers allege that these facilities are not effectively aligned with their immediate needs and demand patterns.
Kiran Bhowmik, a PhD Scholar in Agricultural Economics at Tripura University, emphasized that while government machinery exists to support farmers, the real challenge lies in maintaining an efficient chain of operations. He highlighted the potential role of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in bridging the gap between production, storage, and market access.
According to the Economic Review of Tripura 2024–25, the state’s cold storage infrastructure has expanded significantly, reaching a total capacity of 35,000 metric tonnes (MT), with a dominant 30,350 MT dedicated to potato storage. Government-run facilities contribute 16,000 MT, while private players add another 19,000 MT, indicating a strong institutional presence in this sector.
However, the benefits of this expansion are not reaching all farmers equally. Small and marginal farmers continue to face barriers such as high storage costs, transportation issues, and limited awareness about facility usage. As a result, the utilization of cold storage remains suboptimal in many areas.
Additionally, the skewed focus on potato storage leaving only 4,650 MT capacity for other perishable commodities raises concerns about lack of diversification, especially when the state is aiming to promote horticulture.
Experts suggest that the solution lies beyond infrastructure creation. Strengthening market linkages, ensuring affordable and transparent access to storage, and improving cold chain logistics are crucial. Digital platforms for real-time price information and storage booking could also empower farmers.
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In conclusion, while Tripura has made commendable progress in expanding cold storage capacity, a more farmer centric approach is needed. With better coordination, inclusive policies, and promotion of collective farming institutions, the state can transform current challenges into long-term opportunities, ensuring fair prices and sustainable livelihoods for its farmers.
