How can potato farmers get better returns through scientific farming?

Potato farmers can earn better returns by adopting modern farming methods and working with food processing companies, Manpreet Singh Chadha, Vice-Chairman of WAVE Group, said at the India Today Group's Kisan Tak Bharat Agriculture Conference.Sharing the group's experience in Uttar Pradesh, Chadha said adding value to farm produce is important for improving farmers' incomes.The group has expanded into potato processing, making potato flakes used in snacks and other food products. It has also started producing frozen French fries, which are being exported to Saudi Arabia and Dubai. It plans to expand into the US market.Chadha said the company has introduced farmers to European farming practices, including better seeds, deeper soil preparation, timely pest control and mechanised planting and harvesting.The company also provides seeds and bears the costs of pesticides and machinery, helping farmers improve productivity and reduce dependence on labour.Under its contract farming model, the company fixes potato purchase prices before the harvest. This protects farmers from sudden market price changes. It also buys potatoes of different sizes, ensuring farmers have a buyer for their produce.Chadha urged farmers to embrace scientific farming and work with organised companies to improve their earnings without selling their land.