Is Gujarat Leading the Charge in Processed Potato Production?
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Synopsis
Gujarat's impressive rise in the processed potato industry is noteworthy, as it leads in production and export of French fries and wafers. This transformation highlights the state's agricultural prowess and its significant role in the global processed food market.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat has become the leading state in processed potato production.
- It tops the export of French fries and wafers.
- Over 25% of total potato production is processed.
- Major contributing districts include Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli.
- Government initiatives have significantly boosted production and cultivation area.
Ahmedabad, July 14 (NationPress) In a significant milestone, Gujarat has established itself as the front-runner in the processed potatoes sector, outpacing other states in production and setting new standards for the nation’s export of processed potatoes.
Today, Gujarat stands as the top producer of processed potatoes and has also taken the lead in exporting French fries and wafers. Uttar Pradesh and Punjab occupy the second and third positions, respectively, in processed potato output.
It’s worth noting that French Fries are a beloved snack globally, enjoyed by both children and adults. With the surge in processed potato production, the nation is transitioning from being a French fries importer to an exporter.
The French fries are derived from processed potatoes, and the increase in production has significantly boosted its share within the fries and wafers market.
Gujarat is at the forefront of the nation’s processed potato export scene, producing over 11.50 lakh tonnes within the state.
Back in 2004-05, processed potato production was below 1 lakh tonnes, covering just around 4000 hectares. Thanks to state government initiatives, production has surged to 11.50 lakh tonnes, with the cultivation area expanding tenfold to approximately 37,000 hectares over the last twenty years.
In the year 2024-25, Gujarat produced 48.59 lakh tonnes of potatoes, with over 25 percent being processed varieties, while the remainder consists of Kufri potatoes used for vegetables.
The processing-grade potatoes grown by farmers in Gujarat are supplied in large volumes to processed food manufacturers producing French fries, chips, and frozen foods.
Of the total processed potato output, approximately 60 percent is allocated for wafer production and 40 percent for French fries. The major contributors include the districts of Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli.
During the 2024-25 season, potatoes were cultivated over a combined area of 1.19 lakh hectares in Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli, yielding a total of 38 lakh tonnes with an average productivity of 32.36 tonnes per hectare.
Point of View
Gujarat's ascendancy in the processed potato sector demonstrates the effectiveness of government support and agricultural innovation. This growth not only positions Gujarat as a vital player in the global food market but also shows the potential for other states to follow suit, benefiting the overall economy.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors contribute to Gujarat's leadership in processed potatoes?
Gujarat's leadership is due to extensive government support, increased cultivation area, and a focus on quality processing-grade potatoes.
How much of Gujarat's potato production is processed?
In 2024-25, over 25 percent of Gujarat's total potato production was processed.
What are the main products derived from processed potatoes?
The primary products include French fries and wafers, with 60 percent of processed potatoes used for wafers.
Which districts are major contributors to potato production in Gujarat?
Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli are the key districts contributing to potato production.
How has potato production changed over the years in Gujarat?
Potato production increased significantly from less than 1 lakh tonnes in 2004-05 to 48.59 lakh tonnes in 2024-25.
