Aligarh potatoes making waves in South America
Lucknow: The produce from the fertile soil of Uttar Pradesh is continuously becoming popular in foreign countries. An example of this is the potato of Aligarh, whose taste will now be available to the people of Guyana in South America. Aligarh’s potato has been sent to Guyana for the first time. It is clear that the dream of Yogi government of Uttar Pradesh of doubling the income of farmers is fast coming true. Along with making farmers entrepreneurs, they are also becoming exporters. As a result, 29 metric tonnes of potatoes from Aligarh have been exported to Guyana through farmers’ group FPO.
Farmers themselves are becoming exporters
Yogi government is doubling the income of farmers by removing middlemen. Farmers are becoming exporters through FPO. Dr. C.B. Singh, Deputy General Manager of APEDA’s regional office in Varanasi, said that potatoes from Aligarh have gone commercially to Guyana in South America for the first time. 29 metric tons of potatoes have been sent by sea route. Potatoes for this consignment have been purchased from local FPO of Aligarh and packed in cold storage located in Aligarh. Keeping in view the possibilities of potato production in Aligarh region, APEDA is taking initiative in preparing to set up an agricultural export center for potatoes. After which, employment opportunities will open for farmers of Aligarh and nearby areas as well as other people.
Focus on promoting FPO
The Government of Double Engine has been organizing many programs from time to time on training, capacity building etc. focusing on promoting FPOs, a group of farmers towards international trade. Following the meaningful initiative of APEDA in Uttar Pradesh, Komalika Farmer Producer Company Limited has been directly linked to exports. Provision for financial assistance has also been made to State Governments and FPOs for enhancing capacity infrastructure. APEDA is formulating strategies for country-specific export promotion programs and organizing International Buyer-Seller Meets for EU countries, Middle East and South East Asian countries to tap export potential in new markets.
