Establishment of International Potato Center in India

The Union Cabinet of India has approved the establishment of the CIP-South Asia Regional Center (CSARC) in Agra. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural research focused on potatoes and sweet potatoes. The centre will serve not only Indian farmers but also those in neighbouring South Asian countries.

About the International Potato Center (CIP)

The International Potato Center is headquartered in Lima, Peru. Founded in 1971, it focuses on the research and development of potatoes, sweet potatoes, and Andean roots and tubers. Potatoes are native to the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes and were introduced to India in the 17th century. The CIP has been active in India since 1975, collaborating with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

Functions of the CSARC

The CSARC will aim to improve food and nutrition security. It will boost farmers’ income and create jobs by enhancing potato and sweet potato productivity. The centre will focus on developing climate-resilient and disease-free varieties. It will also facilitate better post-harvest management and value addition.

Investment and Infrastructure

The total investment for the CSARC is Rs 171 crore. India will contribute Rs 111.5 crore while the CIP will provide Rs 60 crore. The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated 10 hectares of land for the project.

Significance of the CSARC

The potato is the third most consumed food crop globally. India is the second-largest producer of potatoes but has a low average yield of 25 tonnes per hectare. The establishment of the CSARC will improve access to high-quality seeds and enhance domestic seed production. This will reduce India’s reliance on seed imports and boost export potential for potato and sweet potato products.

Global Context and Comparisons

The CSARC is the second international agricultural research centre in India, following the establishment of the International Rice Research Institute’s regional centre in 2017. A similar centre was set up in China in 2017, known as the China Center for Asia Pacific.

India’s Position in Potato Production

China leads global potato production, followed by India. In 2020, India produced 51.30 million tonnes of potatoes. Major potato-producing states include Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar. The country has the potential to increase its yield with the right resources and technology.

Current Research Institutions

In India, two ICAR centres focus on tuber crops. The Central Potato Research Institute in Shimla works on potatoes, while the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute in Thiruvananthapuram focuses on sweet potatoes. The CSARC will complement these existing research efforts.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of the International Potato Center in enhancing agricultural productivity in developing nations.
2. Discuss the significance of potato and sweet potato in global food security. How does India’s production compare to other countries?
3. Critically discuss the impact of agricultural research institutions on local economies in India.
4. What are the challenges faced by India in potato production? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of the International Potato Center in enhancing agricultural productivity in developing nations.

1. The CIP conducts research on potato and sweet potato varieties suitable for diverse climates and conditions.
2. It provides training and resources to farmers, improving agricultural practices and productivity.
3. Collaboration with local agricultural institutions helps in the dissemination of advanced agricultural techniques.
4. The center enhances food security by developing high-yield, disease-resistant crop varieties.
5. Global partnerships contribute to knowledge exchange and innovation in agricultural research.

2. Discuss the significance of potato and sweet potato in global food security. How does India’s production compare to other countries?

1. Potato is the third most produced food crop globally, while sweet potato ranks sixth, crucial for nutrition.
2. India is the second-largest potato producer, with potential for higher yields through improved practices.
3. Sweet potato production in India is low compared to its potential, indicating room for growth.
4. Both crops provide essential calories and nutrients, supporting food security in developing nations.
5. India’s production challenges include seed quality and agricultural practices, affecting overall yield.

3. Critically discuss the impact of agricultural research institutions on local economies in India.

1. Research institutions enhance agricultural productivity, leading to increased farmer incomes and job creation.
2. They develop new crop varieties, improving resilience to climate change and pests.
3. Local economies benefit from increased agricultural output, encouraging food processing and export opportunities.
4. Training and education from these institutions empower farmers with better farming techniques.
5. Collaboration with local governments and industries helps stimulate rural development and innovation.

4. What are the challenges faced by India in potato production? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Low average yields of 25 tonnes per hectare compared to the potential of over 50 tonnes hinder productivity.
2. Lack of access to high-quality seeds is barrier for farmers, affecting crop performance.
3. Climate variability impacts potato cultivation, necessitating the development of climate-resilient varieties.
4. Pest and disease management remains a challenge, leading to crop losses and reduced quality.
5. Infrastructure gaps in storage and transportation affect post-harvest management and market access.