Gujarat Leads India in Processed Potato Production

Gujarat has become India’s top producer of processed potatoes, especially those used to make French fries and wafers, according to data from 2024–25. This is a major development for both farmers and food companies, as it helps reduce imports and boost exports. The success is driven by modern farming, government support, and rising demand from food chains and global markets.

Banaskantha Leads the Way in Potato Farming

Banaskantha district is Gujarat’s top performer in processed potato production for the third year in a row. In 2024–25, it produced 18.70 lakh tonnes of potatoes from over 61,000 hectares. This is a jump from 15.62 lakh tonnes in 2023–24. With a productivity rate of 30.65 tonnes per hectare, the district plays a big role in meeting the demand for French fry-grade potatoes.

Other key districts are Sabarkantha, which produced 12.97 lakh tonnes, and Aravalli, which produced 6.99 lakh tonnes, both with high productivity levels. Aravalli, despite being new to potato farming, has grown rapidly due to good climate and strong infrastructure.

Infrastructure and Export Growth

Gujarat’s northern districts have modern cold storage facilities that keep potatoes fresh and suitable for processing throughout the year. These regions are now top suppliers for frozen food companies and quick-service restaurants (QSRs).

The varieties grown—like Lady Rosetta, Kufri Chipsona, and Santana—have high dry matter and low sugar, making them perfect for crispy, golden fries that meet global quality standards. This has also opened up export opportunities, especially to the Middle East.

Government Support Boosts Growth

The rise in processed potato farming is backed by the central and state governments. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push for value-added agriculture, and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s state policies, farmers are receiving the tools and guidance needed to grow processing-grade crops.

Efforts by the Agriculture Department, Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation, and local farmers have made Gujarat a model for how agriculture can support industry and increase farmer incomes through exports and food processing.