Early potato farming begins in Dinajpur despite risk of losses
Farmers are busy cultivating early potatoes in Nawabganj. Photo: Agamir Somoy
Farmers in Nawabganj upazila of Dinajpur have become busy cultivating early potatoes despite fears of losses. Hoping to get good prices at the beginning of the season, they are preparing their land and planting potatoes ahead of schedule. However, rising costs of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and labor have left them concerned about production expenses. They hope favorable weather will bring a good yield and allow them to get fair prices in the market.
According to the Upazila Agriculture Extension Department, a target has been set to cultivate potatoes on around 1,500 hectares of land in Nawabganj this season. Of this area, 350 hectares are planned for early varieties. The agriculture department has set a production target of 18,500 metric tons of early potatoes.
Obaidul Islam, a farmer from Padumhar village, said early potato cultivation is expensive. Seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and land preparation require a substantial investment. If prices are good at the beginning of the season, farmers will make a profit. However, if market prices fall, they will incur losses. Despite the risks, he is cultivating potatoes in the hope of making a profit.
Amzad Hossain, a farmer from Naleya village, said farmers hope to get good prices if they can bring early potatoes to market. However, much depends on the weather and market prices. Cultivation costs are increasing day by day. He said farmers would find some relief if fair prices for potatoes could be ensured.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Zahidul Islam Ilias said early potato cultivation has begun in Nawabganj this year as in previous years. Planting of early varieties has already been completed on around 150 hectares of land. Early potatoes can be harvested and marketed within 60 to 65 days. As a result, farmers have an opportunity to get good prices at the beginning of the season.
He added that the upazila agriculture office is regularly advising farmers. They are optimistic about achieving a good yield this season.
