Bhubaneswar: In a major initiative to boost potato production, a programme for the distribution of certified seed potatoes for Rabi 2025 under the State Sector Scheme “Development of Potato, Vegetable & Spices” was held on Sunday at Jagamohanpur, Keutapada, and Dhurushia in Athagarh.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and distributed certified seed potatoes to the farmers. The event aimed to promote the availability of quality seeds, strengthen potato production, and support farmers with improved planting material for the upcoming Rabi season.
Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo addressed the gathering, emphasising the state’s focus on increasing potato productivity, reducing dependence on imports, and strengthening the agricultural supply chain. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through various schemes and interventions.
At the outset, upon arrival, all guests, officials, and participants listened to the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his welcome address, Director of Horticulture Kalunge Gorakh Waman highlighted the significance of distributing high-quality seeds to boost potato production and productivity across the state, ensuring farmers’ welfare.
Athagarh MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain encouraged farmers to adopt high-yielding varieties of certified seed potato and improved cultivation practices to achieve enhanced production.
Later, Niti Ranjan Sen, MD of OSSC, addressed the gathering and elaborated on the corporation’s efforts to ensure the timely supply of certified seed potatoes to meet farmer demand across the state.
As of now, 1,40,000 quintals of seed potato have been despatched, and 91,633 quintals have been distributed among farmers across different districts. In Cuttack district, there is a plan to cover 800 hectares under potato cultivation during Rabi, out of which 270 hectares will be covered in the Athagarh subdivision.
Following the formal addresses, certified seed potato distribution was carried out, after which planting activities were undertaken at the venue as a demonstration for the farmers. Among others, Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, Collector and District Magistrate of Cuttack; Joint Director of Horticulture Dr. Prafulla Kumar Bhanja; Subrat Kumar Chand, Deputy Director of Horticulture; Assistant Director of Horticulture; and Assistant Horticulture Officers participated in the seed potato distribution programme.
