Processing industry in India to consume 10% of potato output by 2010-11

India's potato production has seen a phenomenal increase since the 1950s, mainly due to strong demand from the processing industry and remunerative returns.

According to the Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), the area under potato rose by almost 547% since the 50s, while yield rose by 267% and overall output jumped by 146%. In 2008-09, potato production (which is a rabi or winter crop) is estimated to be around 28 million tonne as against 25 million tonne achieved last year.

In this Interview with the Financial Express SK Pandey, director of CPRI says on potato processing in India:

"I feel that the potato processing sector has slowly emerged as a very large industry with more than 35-40 processing units located in various parts of the country. They are engaged in production of value added products like potato powder, chips, French fries, etc.

Development of indigenous high dry matter varieties of Kufri Chipsona series has given boost to the sectors in recent years.

It is estimated that by 2010-11, nearly 10% of the total potato produced in the country will be consumed by the processing industry, which at present is merely 4-5%. This will provide good returns to the farmers on one hand and will also absorb excess supplies during a glut...."