International Potato Center in India
The Union Cabinet of India approved the establishment of a regional wing of the Peru-based International Potato Center (CIP) in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative aims to enhance potato and sweet potato research and development in South Asia. The new centre, named the CIP-South Asia Regional Center (CSARC), will serve farmers in India and neighbouring countries, focusing on improving productivity and food security.
International Potato Center (CIP)
The CIP, founded in 1971 and headquartered in Lima, Peru, is dedicated to the research and development of potatoes, sweet potatoes, and other root crops. The potato is indigenous to the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes and was introduced to India in the 17th century. The CIP has been operational in India since 1975, collaborating with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Functions of the CSARC
The CSARC will focus on enhancing food and nutrition security, increasing farmers’ income, and creating jobs. It aims to improve potato and sweet potato productivity through better seed quality, post-harvest management, and value addition. The centre will develop climate-resilient and disease-free crop varieties, leveraging global scientific expertise and genetic resources.
Financial Aspects and Land Allocation
The establishment of the CSARC involves a total investment of ₹171 crore. India will contribute ₹111.5 crore, while the CIP will fund ₹60 crore. The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated 10 hectares of land for the centre’s operations.
Significance of the CSARC
Potatoes are the third most produced food crop globally, while sweet potatoes rank sixth. Despite being the second-largest potato producer, India’s yield is below its potential. The CSARC will provide access to a vast collection of germplasm, which will enhance domestic seed production and reduce reliance on imports. This will also boost India’s capacity to export potato and sweet potato products.
Global Context and Comparisons
The CSARC marks the second establishment of a CIP wing outside Peru, following the creation of the China Center for Asia Pacific in 2017. It also parallels the establishment of the International Rice Research Institute’s regional centre in Varanasi in 2017.
India’s Position in Global Potato Production
China leads global potato production, followed by India. In 2020, India produced 51.30 million tonnes of potatoes. Major producing states include Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar. The establishment of the CSARC is expected to enhance research capabilities and production efficiency in these regions.
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