Potato Icon Awards 2026: Honoring the Potato Architects. Apply for Potato Icon Awards Here https://indianpotato.co/awards In the vast landscape of Indian agriculture, few crops hold as much cultural and economic weight as the potato. Often referred to as the “King of Vegetables,” the potato is a staple in every Indian household, a versatile ingredient in cuisines ranging from the street-side aloo tikki to gourmet preparations. However, beyond the kitchen, the potato industry represents a multi-billion dollar economy that sustains millions of farmers, processors, and entrepreneurs. To celebrate the unsung heroes of this sector, Krishi Jagran has unveiled the Potato Icon Awards 2026, a national platform dedicated to recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in the potato value chain. Apply Here For Potato Icon Awards As part of the broader Crop Icons Mission (2026–2046), these awards represent a pivotal step toward the vision of a Viksit Bharat @2047. By spotlighting the most progressive minds in potato cultivation and processing, the initiative aims to transform the “humble spud” into a symbol of prosperity and technological advancement. The Vision Behind the Awards India stands as the second-largest producer of potatoes globally, yet the sector faces significant challenges, including climate volatility, post-harvest losses, and the need for better market linkages. The Potato Icon Awards 2026 are designed not just as a ceremony, but as a movement to address these hurdles. Organized by Krishi Jagran, a pioneer in agricultural media, the awards seek to bridge the gap between rural innovation and mainstream recognition. The primary objective is to identify and honor individuals and organizations—Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), startups, and researchers—who are driving real change through unity, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge technology. Celebrating Innovation and Resilience The 2026 awards focus heavily on the modernization of the potato sector. In recent years, the industry has seen a massive shift toward “Smart Farming.” The Potato Icon Awards recognize those who have successfully integrated AI, drones, and precision agriculture into their fields. Categories under the Potato Icon umbrella include: Cultivation Excellence: For farmers who have achieved record yields using sustainable and climate-smart techniques. Seed & Bio-Input Innovation: Recognizing the development of high-quality, disease-resistant seed varieties and eco-friendly fertilizers. Processing & Value Addition: Honoring the entrepreneurs who transform raw potatoes into high-value products like chips, fries, and flakes, thereby increasing the shelf life and profitability of the crop. Supply Chain & Logistics Champions: Celebrating those who have built efficient cold-storage networks and logistics systems to reduce wastage. The “Crop Icon” Mission: A Long-term Commitment The Potato Icon Awards are a cornerstone of the Crop Icons Mission, which spans two decades. This mission is rooted in the belief that every major crop in India deserves its own ecosystem of recognition. By focusing specifically on the potato in 2026, the organizers are highlighting its role in food security. The initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to double farmer incomes and promote “Aatmanirbhar Krishi” (Self-reliant Agriculture). By showcasing success stories, the awards provide a roadmap for other farmers to follow, encouraging the adoption of scientific farming methods and entrepreneurial thinking. Empowering the Next Generation: Youth and Women Icons One of the most exciting aspects of the 2026 edition is the focus on inclusivity. The “40 Under 40” and “Women-Led Icon” categories are designed to attract the youth back to agriculture. By showcasing that potato farming can be a high-tech, high-profit business, the awards are inspiring young agritech graduates and rural women to take up leadership roles. These “Agri-Icons” are no longer just traditional farmers; they are CEOs of their own FPOs and founders of innovative startups that solve real-world problems. Impact on the Global Stage The timing of these awards is particularly significant. With the World Potato Congress also scheduled for 2026, the eyes of the global agricultural community are on the sector. The Potato Icon Awards provide a perfect stage for Indian farmers and startups to showcase their potential to international investors and collaborators. It positions India not just as a producer, but as a global hub for potato innovation. How to Join the Recognition Journey The nomination process for the Potato Icon Awards 2026 is currently open, inviting entries from across the country. The platform is designed to be accessible to everyone, from small-scale farmers in the heart of Uttar Pradesh to tech-driven startups in Bangalore. Prospective nominees can file their applications through the official portal at https://indianpotato.co/awards. This link serves as the gateway for farmers and organizations to share their stories of grit and growth. Whether it is a breakthrough in soil health or a revolutionary new way to link farmers directly to the market, every entry contributes to the collective knowledge of the industry. A Harvest of Hope The Potato Icon Awards 2026 are more than just trophies and citations; they are a celebration of the spirit of the Indian farmer. In a world where food security is becoming increasingly complex, the potato offers a resilient solution. By honoring the “Icons” of this industry, Krishi Jagran is ensuring that the hard work of the soil is met with the prestige of the stage. As we move toward the final ceremony, the excitement within the agri-community is palpable. The Potato Icon Awards 2026 promise to be a landmark event, turning the spotlight on the people who feed the nation and, in doing so, are building a stronger, more sustainable future for India. The journey from a small seed in the earth to an “Icon” on the national stage is a testament to the fact that with innovation and dedication, the humble potato can indeed lead a revolution.

आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026: आलू के आर्किटेक्ट्स का सम्मान। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स के लिए आवेदन करें यहाँ https://ift.tt/eL27iFR भारतीय कृषि के विशाल परिदृश्य में, कुछ फसलें आलू की तरह सांस्कृतिक और आर्थिक महत्व रखती हैं। अक्सर "सब्जियों का राजा" कहा जाने वाला आलू हर भारतीय घर में एक मुख्य खाद्य सामग्री है, जो स्ट्रीट-साइड आलू टिक्की से लेकर शानदार पकवानों तक में एक बहुपरकारी सामग्री के रूप में उपयोग होता है। हालाँकि, रसोई से परे, आलू उद्योग एक बहु-बिलियन डॉलर की अर्थव्यवस्था का प्रतिनिधित्व करता है जो लाखों किसानों, प्रोसेसरों और उद्यमियों का समर्थन करता है। इस क्षेत्र के अनसंग नायकों को सम्मानित करने के लिए, कृषी जागरण ने आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026 का अनावरण किया है, एक राष्ट्रीय मंच जो आलू मूल्य श्रृंखला में उत्कृष्टता, नवाचार और नेतृत्व को मान्यता देने के लिए समर्पित है। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स के लिए आवेदन यहाँ करें कृषि आइकन मिशन (2026-2046) के व्यापक भाग के रूप में, ये पुरस्कार विकसित भारत @2047 के दृष्टिकोण की दिशा में एक महत्वपूर्ण कदम हैं। आलू खेती और प्रसंस्करण में सबसे प्रगतिशील बुद्धियों को उजागर करके, यह पहल "सरल कंद" को समृद्धि और तकनीकी उन्नति के प्रतीक में बदलने का लक्ष्य रखती है। पुरस्कारों के पीछे का दृष्टिकोण भारत वैश्विक स्तर पर आलू का दूसरा सबसे बड़ा उत्पादक है, फिर भी इस क्षेत्र का सामना जलवायु अस्थिरता, फसल के बाद के नुकसान और बेहतर बाजार संयोजनों की आवश्यकता जैसे महत्वपूर्ण चुनौतियों से है। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026 को केवल एक समारोह के रूप में नहीं, बल्कि इन बाधाओं का सामना करने के लिए एक आंदोलन के रूप में डिजाइन किया गया है। कृषी जागरण द्वारा आयोजित, जो कृषि मीडिया में एक अग्रणी है, ये पुरस्कार ग्रामीण नवाचार और मुख्यधारा की मान्यता के बीच की खाई को पाटने का प्रयास करते हैं। मुख्य उद्देश्य उन व्यक्तियों और संगठनों—किसान उत्पादक संगठनों (FPOs), स्टार्टअप्स, और शोधकर्ताओं—की पहचान और सम्मान करना है जो एकता, सतत प्रथाओं और अत्याधुनिक तकनीक के माध्यम से वास्तविक बदलाव ला रहे हैं। नवाचार और लचीलापन का जश्न 2026 का पुरस्कार आलू क्षेत्र के आधुनिकीकरण पर भारी ध्यान केंद्रित करता है। हाल के वर्षों में, उद्योग ने "स्मार्ट फार्मिंग" की ओर एक बड़ा बदलाव देखा है। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स उन लोगों को मान्यता देते हैं जिन्होंने अपने खेतों में AI, ड्रोन और सटीक कृषि को सफलतापूर्वक एकीकृत किया है। आलू आइकन की श्रेणियों में शामिल हैं: खेती की उत्कृष्टता: उन किसानों के लिए जिन्होंने स्थायी और जलवायु-स्मार्ट तकनीकों का उपयोग करके रिकॉर्ड उपज हासिल की है। बीज और बायो-इनपुट नवाचार: उच्च गुणवत्ता वाले, रोग-प्रतिरोधी बीज किस्मों और पारिस्थितिक मित्रता वाले उर्वरकों के विकास को मान्यता देना। प्रसंस्करण और मूल्य संवर्धन: उन उद्यमियों को सम्मानित करना जो कच्चे आलू को चिप्स, फ्राई, और फ्लेक्स जैसे उच्च मूल्य वाले उत्पादों में बदलते हैं, इस प्रकार फसल की शेल्फ लाइफ और लाभप्रदता को बढ़ाते हैं। आपूर्ति श्रृंखला और लॉजिस्टिक्स चैंपियंस: उन लोगों का जश्न मनाना जिन्होंने कुशल कोल्ड-स्टोरेज नेटवर्क और लॉजिस्टिक्स सिस्टम का निर्माण किया है ताकि बर्बादी को कम किया जा सके। "Crops Icon" मिशन: एक दीर्घकालिक प्रतिबद्धता आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स कृषि आइकन मिशन का एक महत्वपूर्ण स्तंभ हैं, जो दो दशकों तक फैला हुआ है। यह मिशन इस विश्वास पर आधारित है कि भारत में हर प्रमुख फसल को अपने मान्यता के पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र की आवश्यकता है। 2026 में आलू पर विशेष ध्यान देकर, आयोजक इसके खाद्य सुरक्षा में भूमिका को उजागर कर रहे हैं। यह पहल सरकार के प्रयासों के साथ मेल खाती है ताकि किसान की आय को डबल किया जा सके और "आत्मनिर्भर कृषि" को बढ़ावा दिया जा सके। सफलताओं की कहानियों को प्रदर्शित करके, ये पुरस्कार अन्य किसानों के लिए अनुसरण करने का रोडमैप प्रदान करते हैं, वैज्ञानिक खेती के तरीकों और उद्यमी सोच को अपनाने के लिए प्रोत्साहित करते हैं। नई पीढ़ी को सशक्त बनाना: युवा और महिला आइकन 2026 संस्करण का एक सबसे उत्साहजनक पहलू समावेशिता पर ध्यान केंद्रित करता है। "40 अंडर 40" और "महिला-नेतृत्व आइकन" श्रेणियां युवाओं को कृषि की ओर लौटाने के लिए बनाई गई हैं। यह प्रदर्शित करते हुए कि आलू की खेती एक उच्च तकनीक, उच्च लाभ का व्यवसाय हो सकता है, ये पुरस्कार युवा एग्रीटेक स्नातकों और ग्रामीण महिलाओं को नेतृत्व की भूमिकाएँ अपनाने के लिए प्रेरित कर रहे हैं। ये "एग्री-आइकन" अब केवल पारंपरिक किसान नहीं हैं; वे अपने FPOs के CEOs और नवोन्मेषी स्टार्टअप्स के संस्थापक हैं जो वास्तविक दुनिया की समस्याओं का समाधान करते हैं। वैश्विक मंच पर प्रभाव इन पुरस्कारों का समय विशेष रूप से महत्वपूर्ण है। विश्व आलू कांग्रेस भी 2026 में निर्धारित है, इसलिए वैश्विक कृषि समुदाय की नजरें इस क्षेत्र पर हैं। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स भारतीय किसानों और स्टार्टअप्स के लिए अंतरराष्ट्रीय निवेशकों और सहयोगियों को अपनी क्षमता दिखाने के लिए एक सही मंच प्रदान करते हैं। यह भारत को केवल एक उत्पादक के रूप में नहीं, बल्कि आलू नवाचार का एक वैश्विक केंद्र के रूप में स्थापित करता है। मान्यता यात्रा में कैसे शामिल हों आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026 के लिए नामांकन प्रक्रिया वर्तमान में खुली है, जो देश भर से प्रविष्टियों का स्वागत कर रही है। यह मंच सभी के लिए सुलभ बनाने के लिए डिज़ाइन किया गया है, छोटे किसानों से लेकर टेक-प्रेरित स्टार्टअप्स तक। संभावित नामांकित व्यक्ति आधिकारिक पोर्टल के माध्यम से अपनी प्रविष्टियाँ दाखिल कर सकते हैं: https://indianpotato.co/awards। यह लिंक किसानों और संगठनों को अपनी मेहनत और विकास की कहानियाँ साझा करने के लिए रास्ता प्रदान करता है। चाहे यह मिट्टी के स्वास्थ्य में एक सफलता हो या किसानों को सीधे बाजार से जोड़ने का एक क्रांतिकारी नया तरीका, हर प्रविष्टि उद्योग के सामूहिक ज्ञान में योगदान करती है। आशा की फसल आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026 केवल ट्रॉफियों और प्रमाणपत्रों से अधिक हैं; वे भारतीय किसान की भावना का जश्न मनाते हैं। एक ऐसी दुनिया में जहां खाद्य सुरक्षा越来越 जटिल होती जा रही है, आलू एक लचीला समाधान प्रदान करता है। इस उद्योग के "आइकनों" को सम्मानित करके, कृषी जागरण यह सुनिश्चित कर रहा है कि मिट्टी का कठिन श्रम मंच के सम्मान के साथ मिले। जैसे-जैसे हम अंतिम समारोह की ओर बढ़ते हैं, कृषि समुदाय में उत्साह स्पष्ट है। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026 एक महत्वपूर्ण घटना होने का वादा करते हैं, उन लोगों पर ध्यान केंद्रित करते हैं जो राष्ट्र को खिलाते हैं और, ऐसा करते हुए, एक मजबूत, अधिक टिकाऊ भविष्य के लिए भारत का निर्माण कर रहे हैं। धरती में एक छोटे बीज से लेकर राष्ट्रीय मंच पर एक "आइकन" बनने की यात्रा इस तथ्य का प्रमाण है कि नवाचार और समर्पण के साथ, सरल आलू वास्तव में एक क्रांति का नेतृत्व कर सकता है।

from WordPress https://ift.tt/XHbuzYt
via IFTTT

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Why a Bumper Harvest is Spelling Trouble for Punjab’s Doaba Potato Farmers. In the heart of Punjab’s fertile Doaba region, the arrival of the potato harvesting season is usually a time of bustling activity and economic hope. However, this year, the sprawling green fields of Jalandhar and Kapurthala are clouded by a sense of deep unease. For the farmers of this “potato belt,” a combination of leftover stocks from the previous year and the prospect of an exceptionally high output this season has created a paradoxical crisis of plenty. While a bumper crop is typically celebrated, for the potato growers of Punjab, it has become a harbinger of financial distress. The market is currently grappling with a supply-demand imbalance that threatens to push farm-gate prices below the cost of production, leaving many questioning the viability of their hard work. The Glut from Yesterday The roots of the current crisis lie in the tail end of the previous agricultural cycle. Last year, Punjab witnessed a highly productive season, but the market failed to absorb the entirety of the harvest. Significant quantities of potatoes remained in cold storage, unsold and waiting for a price correction that never materialized. Link As the new harvest begins, these old stocks continue to sit in warehouses, occupying space and dampening the demand for fresh produce. This overlap is a critical factor in the current price slump. When fresh potatoes enter a market already saturated with old stock, the immediate consequence is a sharp decline in wholesale rates. For many Doaba farmers, the struggle isn’t just about selling this year’s crop; it’s about clearing the debts incurred from the one that didn’t sell last year. Prices on the Brink The early varieties of potatoes, such as Kufri Pukhraj, are already hitting the market. These 60-day crops are essential for maintaining a farmer’s cash flow. However, the current farm-gate prices are hovering around ₹6 to ₹7 per kilogram. According to local agricultural representatives, these rates barely cover the basic input costs—seeds, fertilizers, diesel, and labor. Jaswinder Sangha, a prominent voice in the Jalandhar Potato Growers Association, has pointed out that at these rates, there is zero profit margin. “We are just at par with the expenses,” he noted, reflecting a sentiment shared by thousands. Without a profit margin, farmers find it impossible to reinvest in the next cropping cycle or service the high-interest loans often taken from local commission agents or banks. A Nationwide Surplus The crisis is not confined to Punjab alone. Agriculture is a national network, and this year, several major potato-producing states—including West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha—are assumed to report higher-than-average production. Link Historically, Punjab has served as the “seed hub” for the rest of the country. Doaba farmers take pride in producing high-quality seeds that are exported to the eastern and southern states. However, logistical hurdles and political events elsewhere have disrupted this vital trade link. For instance, recent elections in Bihar and labor shortages in West Bengal have slowed down the off-loading of Punjab’s seed consignments. Delays in transportation, exacerbated by unseasonal weather in some regions, have led to some supplies rotting in transit, adding physical loss to financial injury. The Double-Edged Sword of Technology Interestingly, the very innovations that have made Doaba farmers world leaders in potato production are now contributing to the oversupply. The region has seen a surge in the use of advanced agricultural technologies. Many farmers have established private tissue culture laboratories, allowing them to multiply high-yield varieties sourced from the Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) in Kufri. Techniques like aeroponics—growing plants in an air or mist environment without soil—have also gained traction, significantly boosting the output of virus-free potato seeds. While this technological leap exemplifies the Punjab farmer’s progressive mindset, it has also led to a production capacity that currently outstrips the market’s ability to consume or export. The Weather Factor: A Fickle Friend In a typical year, farmers worry about “Late Blight,” a devastating fungal disease triggered by fog, smog, and frost. This year, the weather has been unusually clear. While the absence of blight is a relief, it also means that the survival rate of the crop is nearly 100%. As Jang Bahadur Sangha, one of the region’s largest growers, observed, if the weather remains clear for another fortnight, the region will see a massive bumper crop of varieties like Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Jyoti, and Diamond. In a stable market, this would be a windfall. In a saturated market, every extra bag of potatoes harvested further depresses the price, turning nature’s bounty into an economic burden. The Consumer-Politician Nexus vs. The Grower There is a growing sense of frustration among farmers regarding the “demand-supply ratio.” While low potato prices are a boon for urban consumers and a relief for politicians looking to keep food inflation in check, the grower is the one subsidizing this cheap food with their own losses. Farmers argue that there is a lack of a robust government intervention mechanism to stabilize prices during a glut. Unlike wheat and paddy, which benefit from the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and government procurement, potatoes are largely left to the mercy of the open market. When the market fails, the farmer has no safety net. Summary The potato farmers of Doaba are among the most resilient and innovative in the world. They have turned a humble tuber into a regional powerhouse. Yet, as they stand amidst fields of plenty, they face a future of uncertainty. The sight of farm workers diligently gathering the new harvest should be one of prosperity, but without structural changes to the market and government support, it remains a cycle of struggle. For the Doaba farmer, the hope now rests on a miracle of the market—or perhaps a lesson for the policy-makers: that a bumper crop should never be a cause for worry in a country that prides itself on its agricultural heritage. Until then, the surplus stocks remain a heavy weight on the shoulders of those who feed the nation. Inputs from : The Tribune

पंजाब के दोआबा आलू किसानों के लिए बम्पर फसल क्यों परेशानी का सबब बन रही है। पंजाब के उपजाऊ दोआबा क्षेत्र के दिल में आलू की फसल कटाई का मौसम आमतौर पर व्यस्तता और आर्थिक आशा का समय होता है। हालाँकि, इस वर्ष जलंधर और कपूरथला के फैले हुए हरे खेतों में गहरी चिंता की भावना छाई हुई है। इस "आलू बेल्ट" के किसानों के लिए, पिछले वर्ष के बचे हुए स्टॉक्स और इस मौसम में असाधारण उच्च उत्पादन की संभावना ने abundance की एक विरोधाभासी संकट उत्पन्न कर दिया है। जबकि बम्पर फसल को आमतौर पर मनाया जाता है, पंजाब के आलू उत्पादकों के लिए, यह वित्तीय संकट का एक सूचक बन गया है। बाजार इस समय एक आपूर्ति-प्रतिदान असंतुलन का सामना कर रहा है जो कृषि द्वार मूल्य को उत्पादन लागत से नीचे धकेलने की धमकी दे रहा है, जिससे कई लोग अपने कड़ी मेहनत की व्यवहार्यता पर सवाल उठा रहे हैं। पिछले वर्ष का अधिशेष वर्तमान संकट की जड़ें पिछले कृषि चक्र के अंत में हैं। पिछले वर्ष, पंजाब ने एक अत्यधिक उत्पादक मौसम का अनुभव किया, लेकिन बाजार ने फसल के संपूर्ण स्टॉक को समाहित करने में असफलता दिखाई। आलू की महत्वपूर्ण मात्रा कोल्ड स्ट...
Read more

The Story of McPatel Foods: A Partnership Forged in Europe. McPatel Foods emerged in 2023 from a shared vision among four founders aimed at revolutionizing the frozen food sector within the Indian market. The company’s vision, conceived collectively by the four directors and founders—Karan Sarodia, Aditya Patel, Kirit Haraniya, and Jignesh Patel—was explicitly defined to provide the best quality products to Indian customers while simultaneously focusing on the export market. The company established its operations specifically focusing on frozen French fries. The creation of McPatel Foods was the result of a singular, impactful trip undertaken by the four directors. They were already acquainted, coming from different industries. This pivotal moment occurred when they all attended the Anuga Europe trade fair, in late 2023, with the intention of exploring the frozen food market. It was during this exploration that the idea for McPatel Foods was conceived, leading to the birth of the company. Founders attribute the company’s existence directly to this journey, stating that if the Anuga trip had not happened, the company likely would not be where it is today. Following the trip, the founders collectively decided to establish the company and introduce their brand for processed potato products to the market. Corporate Identity and Director Insight The name “Mc Patel” itself reflects a core aspect of the company’s identity, as the founders “belong to the Patel family”. The directors, whose home state is Gujarat, leverage their local heritage and connections. Their background allows them to have a strong “connect and reach with the farmers and with everyone”. The directors are not only founders but are deeply invested in the operational side, particularly concerning raw material sourcing and farming relationships. Vision, Implementation, and Rapid Growth Despite being a young company, McPatel demonstrated rapid execution, a hallmark of their early operations. With a strong vision, the company initiated its production facility within a year of its inception, ensuring the facility was equipped with “all the best-in-class machineries”. They successfully launched both domestic and export sales within the year of starting production. The current production facility demonstrates a significant capacity even in its initial phase. The facility currently utilizes raw potatoes at a rate of 10 to 12 tons per hour. This raw material consumption translates into finished goods output of 5 tons per hour of frozen French fries. Additionally, recognizing the complementary nature of potato processing, McPatel also established a line for dehydrated potato flakes, currently running at a capacity of 500 kg per hour. Deep Commitment to Contract Farming A critical element of McPatel’s operation and philosophy is its integrated approach to raw material sourcing, centred on contract farming. Given that the founders belong to the Patel family and are closely connected to the farming community, this relationship is foundational. McPatel actively engages in contract farming with producers in Gujarat and neighbouring states. This partnership goes beyond simple purchasing; the company provides significant support to the farmers. Specifically, McPatel helps farmers grow by supplying essential raw materials, such as the specialized potato seeds needed for processing. Furthermore, the company aids them with knowledge regarding plantations and farming techniques. The commitment is cemented by a buy-back agreement, where McPatel purchases the raw potatoes produced under these contracts for use in their factories. This strategy ensures a consistent, high-quality supply of potatoes necessary for best-in-class frozen products. The company has emphasized its plan to “grow with our farmers”. Ambitious Future Expansion Plans McPatel Foods has laid out highly ambitious expansion goals slated for implementation within the coming three years. This expansion is multifaceted, targeting increased raw material handling, greater output of existing products, and diversification into new product lines. The planned expansion will dramatically increase the raw potato processing capability. The current consumption of 10 to 12 tons of raw material per hour is intended to expand substantially, reaching a future capacity of 40 to 50 tons of raw material (potatoes) per hour. In terms of finished goods, the frozen French fries line will see a major upgrade. An additional production line is planned, which will add approximately 20 tons per hour of capacity for frozen French fries. Complementing this, the dehydrated potato flake line is also set for expansion, targeting an increased capacity up to 1.2 tons per hour. Significantly, the expansion includes diversification into specialized products. The company plans to introduce a potato speciality line, which will include products such as hash browns, burger patties , aloo Tikki, and other potato speciality products. This comprehensive expansion plan, projected to be completed within two years, underlines McPatel’s commitment to capturing a larger share of the developing Indian frozen food market.

मैकपटेल फूड्स की कहानी: यूरोप में एक साझेदारी का निर्माण मैकपटेल फूड्स 2023 में चार संस्थापकों के बीच साझा दृष्टिकोण से उभरा, जिसका उद्देश्य भारतीय बाजार में जमी हुई खाद्य पदार्थों के क्षेत्र में क्रांति लाना था। कंपनी का दृष्टिकोण, जिसे चार निदेशकों और संस्थापकों — करण सारोड़िया, आदित्य पटेल, कीरत हरनिया, और जिनेश पटेल — द्वारा सामूहिक रूप से विकसित किया गया था, को स्पष्ट रूप से परिभाषित किया गया था ताकि भारतीय ग्राहकों को सर्वोत्तम गुणवत्ता वाले उत्पाद प्रदान किए जा सकें, साथ ही निर्यात बाजार पर भी ध्यान केंद्रित किया जा सके। कंपनी ने विशेष रूप से जमी हुई आलू फ्राइज़ पर ध्यान केंद्रित करते हुए अपने संचालन की स्थापना की। मैकपटेल फूड्स का निर्माण चार निदेशकों द्वारा किए गए एक विशेष, प्रभावशाली यात्रा का परिणाम था। वे पहले से ही अलग-अलग उद्योगों से परिचित थे। यह महत्वपूर्ण क्षण तब हुआ जब वे सभी 2023 के अंत में अनुगा यूरोप व्यापार मेले में भाग लेने गए, जिसका उद्देश्य जमी हुई खाद्य पदार्थों के बाजार का अन्वेषण करना था। इसी अन्वेषण के दौरान मैकपटेल फूड्स का विचार उत्पन्न हुआ, जिससे कंपनी क...
Read more

West Bengal’s Sanjoy Guha Roy Identifies Why Potato Crops Fail Every Year. In India, the potato is more than just a vegetable—it is a staple, a livelihood, and a cornerstone of food security—a silent enemy has long eluded the grasp of science. For decades, farmers in the Indo-Gangetic plains have watched in despair as their lush green fields turned into a blackened, rotting mass within days. This devastation is caused by Late Blight, a disease triggered by the notorious oomycete Phytophthora infestans. While the symptoms were well-known, the source of the recurring infection remained a subject of intense debate. A groundbreaking study led by Professor Sanjoy Guha Roy from the Department of Botany at West Bengal State University (Barasat) has finally unmasked the culprit. Published in the prestigious journal Phytopathology—the century-old flagship publication of the American Phytopathological Society—the research identifies seed potatoes as the primary reservoir for the disease. Specifically, the study reveals that even “high-tech” seed potatoes, produced under laboratory conditions, harbor hidden, dormant infections that bridge the gap between cropping seasons. The Historical Ghost and Modern Economic Toll To understand the weight of this discovery, one must look back at the 1840s. Phytophthora infestans was the primary cause of the Great Irish Potato Famine, which led to the death of over a million people and changed the course of history through mass migration. In modern India, the second-largest potato producer in the world, the pathogen remains a formidable foe. Link According to the research team, Late Blight claims approximately 15% of India’s total potato production annually. In monetary terms, this translates to a staggering loss of roughly ₹2,700 crore. In years where the disease takes an epidemic form, the losses can be even more catastrophic, pushing debt-ridden farmers to the brink of suicide. Despite the use of expensive fungicides, the disease frequently returns, leading scientists to ask: where does the pathogen hide during the blistering Indian summer when the soil temperature becomes too high for it to survive? The Myth of Soil-Borne Survival In many parts of the world, Late Blight survives in the soil through thick-walled structures called oospores. However, in the tropical and sub-tropical plains of India, the intense heat of the “off-season” (summer) was long thought to be lethal to the pathogen. Some experts theorized that the infection migrated every year from the cooler Himalayan regions or survived in alternative host plants. Professor Guha Roy’s research has effectively debunked these theories for the Indian plains. Through rigorous soil testing and experimental trials under high-temperature conditions, the team found no evidence of the pathogen surviving in the soil between seasons. Instead, they turned their attention to the seed tubers themselves. The study involved testing over 7,000 seed potatoes that appeared perfectly healthy to the naked eye. Using advanced molecular diagnostics and genetic analysis, the researchers discovered that approximately 1.6% of these “healthy” seeds were actually asymptomatic carriers. These tubers contained the pathogen in a dormant state, waiting for the cooler, humid conditions of the winter planting season to reactivate and spread to the rest of the crop. The Paradox of High-Tech Seed Production One of the most alarming findings of the study is that even modern seed production systems are not immune. Today, many farmers rely on seeds produced via tissue culture in specialized labs. These “Pre-Basic” seeds are initially pathogen-free. However, before they reach the farmer, they must be “multiplied” in the field or in greenhouses (often called net-houses or glasshouses) to produce enough volume for commercial sale. Link The researchers identified this multiplication phase as the critical point of failure. In many potato-growing regions, such as Punjab and West Bengal, these seed-multiplication nurseries are located in close proximity to commercial potato fields. During the growing season, spores from infected commercial crops can easily find their way into the supposedly “protected” greenhouses through wind or human activity. Once the seed plants are infected, the pathogen hitches a ride inside the newly formed tubers, where it remains hidden throughout the summer storage period. The European Connection: A More Aggressive Lineage The research also provided a genetic profile of the enemy. The dominant strain currently wreaking havoc in India belongs to the “European clonal lineage,” specifically the genotype known as EU_13_A2. This lineage is significantly more aggressive than the strains previously found in India. It is also notably resistant to Metalaxyl, one of the most commonly used and affordable fungicides. The presence of this lineage explains why recent outbreaks have been so swift and difficult to control. By surviving inside the seed potato, this aggressive strain ensures its survival across seasons, effectively “seeding” the next epidemic even before the farmer has finished planting. Identifying the “Stem Lesion” Clue The study sheds light on how the disease begins its visible assault. In many cases, the infection starts not on the leaves, but as small, dark lesions on the stem of the plant. These stem lesions often go unnoticed by farmers in the early stages. However, they serve as a factory for spores that quickly wash down into the soil or blow across the field, leading to the rapid-fire destruction characteristic of Late Blight. The identification of stem-focused infection pathways is crucial for improving early warning systems. If farmers can be trained to look for these early indicators on the stems of emerging plants, they may be able to take preventative action before the entire field is compromised. A Roadmap for the Future The recognition of Professor Guha Roy’s work as an “Editor’s Pick” in Phytopathology highlights its global significance. It provides a clear directive for policymakers and agricultural scientists in India and other developing nations. To break the cycle of Late Blight, the following steps are essential: Stricter Certification and Monitoring: Current seed certification processes must include molecular testing for asymptomatic infections. Relying on visual inspection alone is clearly insufficient. Strategic Relocation of Nurseries: Seed multiplication should be moved to “blight-free” zones or areas geographically isolated from commercial potato crops to prevent cross-contamination. Modern Diagnostic Kits: There is an urgent need to develop affordable, field-level diagnostic kits that can help seed producers and government agencies identify latent infections in stored tubers. Integrated Management: Since the pathogen is now known to be seed-borne, farmers should be encouraged to use certified, tested seeds and adopt “prophylactic” (preventative) fungicide applications rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Conclusion The work of the West Bengal State University research team marks a turning point in the fight against one of the world’s most devastating plant diseases. By identifying the humble seed potato as the secret hideout for Phytophthora infestans, they have provided the missing link in the epidemiological chain. As India strives to ensure food security for its growing population, protecting the potato crop is non-negotiable. This discovery not only honors the scientific excellence emerging from Bengal but also offers a beacon of hope for millions of farmers whose livelihoods depend on the health of their tubers. The “Silent Saboteur” has been found; the next challenge lies in making sure it has nowhere left to hide.

पश्चिम बंगाल के संजय गुहा रॉय ने पहचान की है कि हर साल आलू की फसलें क्यों असफल होती हैं। भारत में, आलू केवल एक सब्जी नहीं है—यह एक मुख्य खाद्य पदार्थ, जीवन यापन का साधन और खाद्य सुरक्षा का आधार है—एक मौन दुश्मन लंबे समय से विज्ञान की पकड़ से बाहर रहा है। दशकों से, इंडो-गंगेय मैदानों में किसान निराशा से देखते आ रहे हैं जब उनकी हरी-भरी फसलें कुछ ही दिनों में काले, सड़ते ढेर में बदल जाती हैं। यह विनाश लेट ब्लाइट द्वारा होता है, जो कुख्यात ओमीसाइट फाइटोफ्थोरा इंफेस्टन्स द्वारा उत्प्रेरित बीमारी है। जबकि लक्षण अच्छे से ज्ञात थे, पुनरावर्ती संक्रमण का स्रोत गहन बहस का विषय बना रहा। पश्चिम बंगाल राज्य विश्वविद्यालय (बराकपुर) के वनस्पति विज्ञान विभाग के प्रोफेसर संजय गुहा रॉय द्वारा किए गए एक क्रांतिकारी अध्ययन ने अंततः दोषी को बेनकाब कर दिया है। प्रतिष्ठित जर्नल फाइटोपैथोलॉजी में प्रकाशित—अमेरिकन फाइटोपैथोलॉजिकल सोसाइटी का शताब्दी पुराना प्रमुख प्रकाशन—यह शोध बीमारियों के प्राथमिक भंडार के रूप में आलू के बीजों की पहचान करता है। विशेष रूप से, अध्ययन में यह खुलासा किया गया है कि यहां तक कि “उच्...
Read more