Nilgiris Potato Sales Surge at Co-operative Society in Mettupalayam
The Nilgiris Co-operative Marketing Society branch in Mettupalayam, Coimbatore district, has reported robust sales of Ooty potatoes, with 21,000 tonnes worth Rs 57.58 crore sold in the last 10 months. This marks a significant uptick in agricultural trade, highlighting the society's pivotal role in supporting local farmers.
Historic Institution Driving Farmer Benefits
Established in 1935 on Nellithurai Road in Mettupalayam, this branch has been a cornerstone for potato marketing. It operates with a 7% service charge collected from farmers for conducting auction sales, which eliminates intermediaries and ensures transparency. Traders procure potatoes through these auctions for domestic markets and exports to destinations like the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Islands.
Key facilities that attract farmers include:
- No commission payments to agents, as sales are direct through auctions.
- Availability of loans against potatoes even before auctions take place.
- Round-the-clock delivery of produce without time restrictions.
- Affordable accommodation at Rs 200 per day for farmers staying overnight.
Steady Growth in Sales and Farmer Participation
According to S Saravanakumar, a potato farmer from Thuneri in the Nilgiris, nearly 90% of potato farmers in the district prefer selling through this society due to its transparent processes. Sales data over recent financial years shows a consistent upward trend:
- 2021-2022: 15,436 tonnes worth Rs 37 crore.
- 2022-2023: 13,089 tonnes worth Rs 32 crore.
- 2023-2024: 21,750 tonnes worth Rs 56 crore.
- 2024-2025: 20,890 tonnes worth Rs 75 crore.
- 2025-2026 (as of Jan 31): 21,781 tonnes worth Rs 57.59 crore.
Daily Auctions and Increased Farmer Engagement
Potatoes grown in the Nilgiris district are sold daily through auctions at this society. D Muthukumar, deputy registrar and managing director of the Nilgiris Co-operative Marketing Society in Udhagamandalam, noted that the society was established in Mettupalayam to simplify potato market operations for commercial trade.
During peak seasons, over 100 farmers from areas like Coonoor, Kotagiri, and Ketti bring potatoes daily for direct sales without middlemen. Potatoes are graded based on size and colour before auction, ensuring quality control. As this branch exclusively handles potatoes, it has garnered strong support and goodwill among the farming community.
Muthukumar added that the number of farmers transporting produce to Mettupalayam has increased from 7,906 last year to 8,153 in the first 10 months of this year, reflecting growing trust and efficiency in the co-operative system.
