In Una district, a notable downturn in potato production is anticipated this year, triggered by a 30% decrease in crop yield. This reduction is attributed to the adverse effects of prolonged summer heat and delayed winter onset. Potatoes rank as the third key crop in Una, following wheat and maize, playing a vital role in augmenting farmers' incomes.
Despite the stable cultivation area of 1,200 hectares, the diminished yield is poised to impact this year's production volumes significantly. Typically, the district produces between 20,000 to 25,000 tonnes of potatoes annually. However, the first week of September recorded a stark yield reduction due to elevated temperatures, as reported by local farmers Ravindra Saini, Ajay Kumar, Desraj, and Sukhwinder. The decline ranged from one to two quintals per kanal, contrasting with the expected seven to eight quintals.
Kulbhushan Dhiman, Deputy Director of Agriculture, highlighted the vulnerability of potato crops to weather fluctuations, noting the extended summer and subsequent untimely rains as detrimental factors. The commencement of potato plowing in the district marks a critical phase, with wheat sowing schedules being adjusted accordingly. The absence of rainfall for over a month has posed challenges for wheat sowing, particularly in areas lacking irrigation facilities, which cover a significant portion of the district's wheat cultivation land.
Source: The Tribune