8 June 2026, Shimla
The Members of Parliament Shri Sukanta Kumar Panigrahi and Shri Patel Umeshbhai Babubhai visited the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla, as part of the study tour of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Food Processing. The visit provided an opportunity to review the institute’s research initiatives, technological innovations, and contributions to the growth and development of India’s potato sector.
Shri Umeshbhai Babubhai Patel discussed the prospects for enhancing India’s potato exports and sought information on quality standards, processing varieties, and strategies to improve the global competitiveness of Indian potatoes. Scientists shared insights on the importance of quality seed production, improved storage infrastructure, and value addition for strengthening export potential.
Shri Sukanta Kumar Panigrahi deliberated on the increasing demand for quality potato seed in the country. The delegation reviewed the institute’s efforts to meet national seed requirements through advanced seed production technologies.
Dr. Jagdev Sharma, Director (Acting), ICAR-CPRI, briefed the delegation on the institute’s mandate, key achievements, and ongoing research programmes. He highlighted ICAR-CPRI’s significant contributions to the development of improved potato varieties, quality seed production technologies, and climate-resilient innovations aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability.
Discussions also focused on the seed plot technique developed by institute, which enables farmers to produce healthy seed potatoes in non-traditional seed-growing regions, thereby reducing production costs and improving local seed availability.
During their interaction with scientists, the Members raised several important issues concerning the future growth of the potato sector in India. They emphasized the need for developing potato varieties suitable for coastal and humid regions, where cultivation faces unique climatic challenges.
Scientists informed the delegation about ongoing breeding programmes focused on developing region-specific varieties adapted to diverse agro-climatic conditions.
The Members appreciated the institute’s significant contributions to agricultural research and acknowledged the vital role of science-driven innovations in strengthening India’s potato sector.
(Source: ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla)
Like on Facebook
Subscribe on Youtube
Follow on X X
Like on instagram