Varavoor Gold shines at Onam market

During the recent Onam celebrations, Varavoor Gold emerged as a standout attraction at the Onam market fair organized by Varavoor Panchayat Kudumbashree in Thrissur. Varavoor Gold, a premium variety of Chinese potato (Koorka), is cultivated by Kudumbashree Krishi Sangams across 63 acres of Varavoor paddy fields. Its unique aroma during harvest distinguishes it from other Chinese potato varieties.This vegetable was grown as a companion crop, with its shoot and root ploughed back into the soil after harvest to prepare for Mundakan cultivation. While Chinese potato is typically harvested across the country in the Vrischikam season, Kudumbashree's Varavoor Gold hits the market three months ahead of schedule. Its popularity has even extended to international markets, with farmers earning excellent returns. At the Varavoor CDS Onam market fair, it sold for Rs 100 per kg, with 400 kg sold during the event.Last year, under the leadership of the Panchayat and CDS, Varavoor sold Chinese potatoes worth Rs 25 lakh. This year, the Nila JLG Group has entered the market with their Chinese potato, fetching prices as high as Rs 180 in other markets.