The potato crisis in Odisha shows no signs of abating, as efforts by the state to persuade West Bengal to lift the transportation embargo have not been successful. This situation is exacerbated by reduced procurement from Uttar Pradesh, leading to soaring prices in Odisha's vegetable markets, with potato prices ranging from Rs 50 to 60 per kg.
The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister of Odisha, Krushna Chandra Patra, indicated that discussions with the West Bengal government are ongoing, and normalcy is expected shortly. He mentioned the possibility of intervention by the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) for potato procurement from Uttar Pradesh, though details of government approval for this move were not provided.
The response from the West Bengal government remains awaited, putting pressure on the Odisha government to explore alternatives, with a significant role envisioned for traders. The embargo by West Bengal affects not only Odisha but also BJP-ruled states in the northeast, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. Meanwhile, a small relief came as five trucks carrying 100 tonnes of potatoes arrived in Odisha from West Bengal, albeit with additional transportation charges due to detours to evade Bengal police, setting the wholesale price in Bhubaneswar mandi at Rs 3,400-3,500 per 100 kg.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: newindianexpress.com