The West Bengal government’s decision to halt inter-state potato exports has disrupted supply chains, caused prices to skyrocket in neighboring states, and sparked political debates. However, the situation has brought relief to potato farmers in Uttar Pradesh, the largest potato-producing state in India, as increased demand has driven up prices in their favor.

Price Surge Across States

West Bengal imposed the ban on November 27 after a ₹10 per kg price hike in the state. The move left hundreds of potato-laden trucks stranded at the state’s borders, causing shortages in Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Assam, which heavily depend on West Bengal for supply.

**Odisha**: Potato prices doubled to ₹50-60 per kg.

**Jharkhand**: Prices rose by ₹10 per kg, creating additional strain on consumers.

**Uttar Pradesh**: Farmers are witnessing a long-awaited price increase, with old potatoes now selling at ₹28-30 per kg and new ones reaching ₹40 per kg.

Impact on Uttar Pradesh Farmers

Uttar Pradesh, which accounts for 30% of India’s potato production, has seen an increase in demand as neighboring states turn to its markets. Farmers like Pradeep Sharma from Agra have reported significant price hikes, with wholesale rates for local potato varieties rising by 10.5% to ₹2,100 per quintal as of December 7.

“This is the best time for us,” Sharma said, noting that prices for both old and new crops have surged due to delayed harvests caused by heavy rainfall and fertilizer shortages.

West Bengal’s Justification

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee defended the ban, stating that potato exports will resume only after the arrival of the new harvest. The state produces 90-100 lakh tonnes of potatoes annually, with a domestic consumption of about 60 lakh tonnes. The remaining stock is usually exported or stored, but this year’s late harvest has forced the state to rely on cold storage supplies until January.

Political Fallout

The decision has triggered political tension, with BJP MP Manish Jaiswal demanding central intervention. "Potatoes are a free trade commodity, and states cannot block their movement," Jaiswal argued. In contrast, the Trinamool Congress has supported Banerjee’s decision, emphasizing the need to prioritize local consumption during a low-yield season.

Meanwhile, traders in Bengal initially launched an indefinite strike but called it off after Agricultural Marketing Minister Becharam Manna assured them he would discuss the matter with the Chief Minister.

Nationwide Impact

The disruption comes amid rising prices of other vegetables, compounding inflationary pressures. According to data from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Uttar Pradesh contributes 30% of India’s total potato production, followed by West Bengal at 23%. The ban has particularly hit states like Odisha and Jharkhand, where retail prices have soared from ₹32-33 per kg to ₹45-50 per kg within days.

Looking Ahead

With cold storage supplies running low in West Bengal and delayed harvests across states, the situation remains precarious. The decision to lift the ban is likely to depend on the timely arrival of new crops, while farmers in Uttar Pradesh continue to benefit from the increased demand.