The West Bengal government on Wednesday lifted all restrictions on the interstate movement of agricultural produce. While the notification covers food grains, oilseeds and vegetables, its most significant impact will be on the unrestricted export of potatoes.
Record potato harvest triggers logistical crisis
Bengal produced a record 140-150 lakh tonnes of potatoes in the 2025-26 season, marking a 20% year-on-year rise and the highest output in five years. The bumper harvest, however, has triggered a logistical crisis. The state's 496 cold storage facilities can hold only 82 lakh tonnes, leaving nearly 60% of the crop vulnerable to rotting in the open.
Without the option of exporting surplus stock to other states, Bengal was staring at an imminent market glut. Oversupply within the state would have led to a sharp fall in prices, causing severe financial losses to farmers.
Government aims to prevent farmer distress
Agricultural marketing minister Dilip Ghosh said that in previous years such price crashes pushed farmers into a web of debt and, in some cases, drove them to suicide. By allowing free movement of potatoes across borders, the government aims to help farmers access better-paying markets in other states.
The department of agricultural marketing has directed all authorities, including police and transport officials, to ensure smooth movement at interstate checkpoints. This step is expected to stabilize prices and provide relief to potato growers who faced the prospect of massive losses due to oversupply.
