SRINAGAR: The indigenous Hirpora Red Potato, celebrated for its unique taste and texture, is nearing extinction, warn locals from the Hirpora area in south Kashmir. Situated along the historic Mughal Road and near the Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary, Hirpora has long been recognised for its distinctive potato cultivation.
Once a staple crop, the production of this prized variety, also known as ‘Katt-e-Maaz Aolu’ (Mutton Potato), has sharply declined, with only a few farmers still cultivating it.
Residents from Hirpora said that this potato, known throughout India for its unique flavour and crunch, has seen a significant reduction in cultivation. Factors such as the excessive use of chemical fertilisers, disease outbreaks, and low yields have all contributed to this decline.
“A decade ago, almost every household in Hirpora grew this red potato. Now, only 10 to 20 households out of the 800 in the village continue to grow it, and even then, only on a very small scale,” said Abdul Rehman, a local farmer.
The Hirpora Red Potato requires more labour, fertilisers, and time to cultivate than the standard potato. As a result, it commands a market price approximately three to four times higher than common potatoes, which further discourages farmers from growing it.
Despite the challenges, locals remain hopeful, with some farmers continuing to grow the potato in small quantities. They believe that government support could be instrumental in its revival by procuring seeds from local farmers and distributing them to others after ensuring the seeds are disease-free.
Experts say the shift in farming practices, particularly the increasing establishment of apple orchards in the region, has negatively affected the quality and quantity of these potatoes. They report that the encroachment of apple farming has led to changes in soil composition and microclimate, impacting potato cultivation.
“People from across Kashmir used to come here to buy our potatoes,” said a grower. “We even tried other potato varieties, but none have survived in this region like the Hirpora Red. This potato has unique qualities and thrives best at altitudes above 1,600 metres. Hirpora and the nearby Sedow area are ideal for growing it.”
An official from the Agriculture Department acknowledged the decline in production, and said that the government is aware of the situation and has submitted two revival projects to higher authorities, including the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST).
“The department is actively working to revive this indigenous variety,” said the official. “One farmer has agreed to provide land for trial purposes, and we will source seeds from those still cultivating the red potato. These seeds will be tested for diseases, and we will collaborate with SKUAST experts to determine why yields are low and the potato size remains small.”
The department is also conducting soil tests to identify the best conditions for cultivation, while Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Balpora is working on a separate revival programme.
“This red potato has the potential to boost the local economy,” the official added. “It thrives at high altitudes, which makes it well-suited to areas like Hirpora and Sedow. We are examining all factors, including low yields and potential diseases affecting the crop, as part of our revival efforts. We are confident that with the cooperation of local farmers, we will succeed.”—(KNO)
