Tripura’s ARC Scheme Boosts Potato Yields, Profits
Tripura unleashes a Rs 1.8 crore ARC potato scheme to help 6,000 farmers. Historic yield gains and new varieties position the state for self-sufficiency by 2029. This move directly improves farmer earnings and stabilizes the region’s supply chain.
By the Numbers
- 6,000
- Farmers covered by ARC support (India Today NE, Nov 2025)
- Rs 1.8 crore
- Total government spend on ARC scheme (India Today NE, Nov 2025)
- 9,000–10,000 kg/kani
- ARC potato yield after adoption (India Today NE, Nov 2025)
- Rs 2,000
- Direct assistance per farmer in cash (India Today NE, Nov 2025)
- 36.5 MT/ha
- Current average yield using ARC, up 90% (Tripura Times, Nov 2025)
Changes This Week
ARC potato program expanded to 6,000 farmers, 2025. Average yield rose from 3,000 kg to 10,000 kg per kani, up 230%. Subsidy payout fixed at Rs 2,000 cash and Rs 1,000 materials per farmer this week. Higher mandi prices reported in Agartala, reflecting new ARC supplies.
Supply Analysis
ARC (Apical Rooted Cutting) cuts seed costs and boosts yield. Past methods capped yields at 19.16 MT/ha. ARC models now deliver up to 61 MT/ha for top growers, with the average at 36.5 MT/ha in 2025. Local seed procurement curbs dependency on West Bengal or Punjab, reducing supply risk. Five new varieties introduced further lift total output. Distribution of 100 kg seed to 400-plus growers this season improves seed availability (Tripura Times, Nov 2025).
Demand Signals
Tripura’s annual demand is 1.55 lakh MT. Local supply was 1.46 lakh MT in 2025. Increased ARC production narrows the gap. Local processors anticipate greater in-state buying. Stable retail and mandi prices continue as arrivals rise, preventing price shocks to consumers.
Regional Snapshot
lowest impact: Udaipur Mandi, Gomati, price, slow ARC adoption | highest impact: Betagaon, South Tripura, price, record ARC yield | stable: Agartala Mandi, West Tripura, price, steady arrivals from ARC fields
Policy Risks
Government granted Rs 1.8 crore for ARC, with strict monitoring to stop subsidy misuse. Farmers also access training and ARC seedlings. Tripura Horticulture Corporation manages seed procurement, with 40 MT purchases this year. Future risks include weather disruptions or ARC disease outbreaks, both now rated as low due to seed quality controls. Strategic tie-ups with CIP Peru support further tech adoption (Times of India, Nov 2025).
Questions & Answers
How much does ARC potato production cost per hectare?
ARC costs ₹1.2–1.5 lakh/ha, including seed and inputs, according to Tripura Times (Nov 2025).
What’s the best way to store ARC potatoes securely?
Use ventilated cold storage at 4–7°C. Avoid stacking above 1.5 meters deep.
How much acreage should a small farmer allocate to ARC?
Start with 1 kani (0.16 ha) for subsidy benefits and manageability, per extension office advice.
Where can I check current ARC potato market prices?
Visit Agartala and Betagaon mandi price boards, updated daily by Tripura Horticulture Corporation.
How do I apply for government potato subsidies in Tripura?
Apply at your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra with land proof and ID before the seasonal registration deadline.
Sources
- 1.https://www.indiatodayne.in/tripura/story/tripura-to-support-6000-farmers-with-rs-18-crore-under-arc-potato-cultivation-scheme-agriculture-minister-1300362-2025-11-06
- 2.https://www.freshplaza.com/asia/article/9716465/tripura-targets-potato-self-sufficiency-by-2029-with-high-yield-varieties/
- 3.https://www.freshplaza.com/asia/article/9691143/tripura-adopts-arc-technology-to-boost-potato-yields-and-farmer-livelihoods/
- 4.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/tripura-eyes-self-sufficiency-in-potato-production/articleshow/123857010.cms