Gujarat tops in production and export of processed potatoes in India

In News

Source:The Hindu | Date: 14 July 2025 | Location: Ahmedabad

• Gujarat has emerged as the top producer and exporter of processed potatoes in India during the 2024–25 season, with a total potato output of 48.59 lakh tonnes, of which over 25% is processing grade.
• Key Processing Varieties: Lady Rosetta, Kufri Chipsona, Santana.
• Processed potato share: 60% wafers, 40% French fries; also exported to Middle East.

UPSC Analysis

Relevance in GS Papers

• GS III – Agriculture: Crop diversification, agri-processing, cold chain.
• GS III – Economy: Food processing industry, export potential.

Production Trends

1. National Context
   • India’s processed potato production rose from <1 lakh tonnes in 2004–05 to 11.5 lakh tonnes in 2024–25.
   • Cultivation area increased from 4,000 ha to 37,000 ha in the same period.
2. State Leaders
   • Gujarat (1st), followed by Uttar Pradesh and Punjab in processed potato production.

District-wise Data – Gujarat

• Banaskantha: 18.70 lakh tonnes (61,016 ha; 30.65 t/ha).
• Sabarkantha: 12.97 lakh tonnes (37,999 ha; 34.13 t/ha).
• Aravalli: 6.99 lakh tonnes (20,515 ha; 34.05 t/ha).

Enabling Factors

• Agro-climatic suitability in North Gujarat.
• Cold storage infrastructure in Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli.
• Contract farming with food processors (e.g., McCain).

Economic Significance

• Boost to food processing industry & exports.
• Employment generation in agri-value chains.
• Potential for value addition & foreign exchange earnings.