World Potato Day 2024
The International Day of Potatoes falls on 30th May every year. This day is celebrated to highlight the versatility of potatoes and their nutritional and cultural value.
Potatoes were a life-saving food source in early times because the vitamin C prevented scurvy. Another major nutrient in potatoes is potassium, an electrolyte which aids in the workings of our heart, muscles, and nervous system. Potato skin contains fiber, which is important for digestive health.
The United Nations, with the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), established this day to draw attention to the potato’s benefits, which range from its nutritional value to its economic, environmental, and cultural significance.
As a matter of fact, theme for the International Day of Potato 2024 is “Harvesting Diversity, Feeding Hope.” This theme highlights the importance of having a wide variety of potato types. With over 5000 different kinds, including both improved varieties and traditional types grown by farmers, there are many options to meet the needs of different farming methods, cooking styles, and industrial uses.
The celebration of International Day of the Potato underscores the potato’s journey from its origins in the South American Andes to becoming a staple food consumed by billions worldwide.
This day not only celebrates the potato’s nutritional and cultural value but also emphasizes its importance in providing food security and supporting economic development. With over 5,000 varieties, the potato is adaptable to various climates, making it a key crop in efforts to combat hunger and malnutrition.
India is the second largest producer of Potato in world, with China ranking first.
In Kashmir valley, the picturesque Gurez is known for producing one of the finest potatoes of world, known for their high quality and taste .We should take all measures to Boost production of Potatoes.