Okara, Punjab: Despite a bumper potato harvest in Punjab’s Okara district, thousands of farmers are facing financial hardship as falling market prices continue to erode their profits.
Agricultural experts say potato cultivation increased significantly this season due to favorable weather conditions and expanded acreage. However, demand in both domestic and international markets has failed to keep pace with the higher production, resulting in a sharp decline in market prices.
Farmers report that the cost of cultivation has risen substantially because of higher prices for fertilizers, certified seeds, pesticides, diesel, irrigation, and labor. While production expenses have increased, potato prices in the market remain too low to cover these costs, leaving many growers with little or no profit.
Small-scale farmers have been the hardest hit, with many expressing concerns over mounting debts and the financial uncertainty surrounding future crops.
Agriculture experts have urged the government to introduce measures that add value to the potato industry. They recommend expanding cold storage facilities, promoting food processing industries, and increasing potato exports to international markets. Such initiatives, they say, would help stabilize prices, improve farmers’ incomes, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural economy.
Farmers have also appealed to the authorities to implement practical policies that ensure fair market prices and provide greater support for the country’s agricultural community.
