Odisha government halts potato procurement from Bengal amid supply disruptions

Bhubaneswar, Nov 30: In a significant move in response to ongoing disruptions in potato supplies from West Bengal, the Odisha government has officially decided to stop procuring the tuber from its neighboring state. On Saturday, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra addressed the media, stating that the state would no longer seek potato supplies from West Bengal.

“We will not make any further appeals to West Bengal for potato supplies. If they choose to send potatoes voluntarily, we will accept them, but we will not actively request their assistance anymore,” Minister Patra asserted.

Addressing concerns about a potential potato shortage in Odisha, the Minister reassured the public that the state has adequate stock. Potatoes are currently being sourced from Uttar Pradesh at a rate of Rs 22 per kilogram, with an additional transport charge of Rs 4. Minister Patra highlighted that West Bengal is not the only potato-producing state, mentioning that Punjab and other states are ready to supply potatoes to Odisha.

Furthermore, he dismissed claims of a price increase in the state, emphasizing that potato prices have remained stable. “Strict action will be taken against traders found selling potatoes at inflated rates,” he warned, ensuring that consumers are protected during this period of supply transition.