The Potato Marketing Department plays a pivotal role in driving the growth and success of the potato value chain. The department is committed to accelerating potato off-taking by creating strong linkages between farmers, farmer groups/cooperatives with processors, and traders. Through these strategic connections, the department ensures an efficient and sustainable flow of produce from farms to markets.

The department’s key focus is coordinating contract and irrigation farming practices. By aligning farming activities with market demands, the department guarantees a consistent and reliable potato supply throughout the year. This approach helps mitigate seasonal shortages and supports processors in maintaining steady production levels.

Training and capacity-building initiatives are central to the department’s work. It provides targeted training programs designed to enhance farmers’ knowledge of best practices in production, post-harvest techniques, financial inclusion, and collective marketing. By promoting group marketing strategies, farmers and cooperatives gain stronger bargaining power when negotiating prices and terms with buyers.

Adherence to quality standards and traceability measures is another critical aspect of the department’s mandate. By ensuring that potatoes meet domestic and international standards, the department helps expand market opportunities for the processors and farmers at large. This focus on quality not only boosts the competitiveness of locally-produced potatoes but also builds consumer trust and satisfaction.

Ultimately, the Potato Marketing Department strives to foster a dynamic and inclusive market environment that benefits all stakeholders. Through collaboration, innovation, and dedication to excellence, the department supports the growth of the potato industry while contributing to the broader agricultural and economic development of the region.