Plans for funding to potato farmers hit by losses

Staff Reporter:

The government is considering offering subsidies to potato farmers who suffered losses in last year’s production cycle, Agriculture Adviser Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said on Sunday.

“Potato growers have faced major setbacks this year. We are examining options for providing subsidies to help them recover,” he said at a press briefing on the overall agricultural situation at the Secretariat.

He noted that the arrival of new potatoes has begun in small quantities, though the harvest is expected to be delayed by around 15 days.

“If existing stocks are cleared by then, it will help stabilise prices. We have directed cold storage owners to hold potatoes until December so farmers can sell their full stock,” he added.
On how subsidies would be delivered, the adviser said discussions are ongoing.
Jahangir Alam also highlighted a steep drop in seed potato prices compared to last year.

“A carton of seed potatoes that cost Tk 40,000–42,000 last year is now selling for around Tk 12,000. I have instructed officials to document price changes. Anyone found manipulating the market will face action,” he said.