Shimla/ Bhubaneswar, Mar 24: A delegation of media representatives from Odisha, led by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), recently visited the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) in Shimla to explore the latest advancements in potato cultivation. The visit aimed to deepen their understanding of ongoing research and innovations aimed at improving potato production across India.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Dr. Brajesh Singh, Director of ICAR-CPRI, who highlighted the institute’s significant role as the national hub for potato research in India. He explained that the potato, introduced to India nearly 400 years ago, has now become a key staple in the nation’s food and nutritional security. Established in 1949 and relocated to Shimla in 1956, the institute operates under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and is supported by six regional stations across various agro-climatic zones.
Dr. Singh shared that the institute has developed over 70 improved potato varieties and plays a pivotal role in the production of high-quality seed potatoes. He also noted that India currently ranks second globally in potato production, making it a major contributor to the world’s food supply.
During the visit, Dr. Singh discussed the integration of modern technologies such as drones, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology in potato research and crop management. He emphasized the institute’s efforts in crop improvement, seed technology, germplasm conservation, and the development of farmer-oriented technologies aimed at increasing productivity. A major concern raised was the issue of Bacterial Wilt-affected soil in Odisha, which severely impacts seed production. Dr. Singh assured the delegation that CPRI is actively working on solutions to address this challenge.
The delegation also interacted with heads of various divisions within the institute. The Social Sciences Division discussed the dissemination of improved varieties and technologies to farmers, while the Plant Protection Division focused on disease management strategies, including the Indo-Blightcast app for forecasting late blight, a common potato disease. Scientists also elaborated on the development of region-specific varieties, crop production practices, and post-harvest processing techniques for value addition.
To provide a firsthand experience of the institute's work, the delegation toured CPRI’s laboratories and research facilities. Senior scientists such as Dr. Jagdev Sharma (Head, Crop Production), Dr. Sanjeev Sharma (Head, Plant Protection), Dr. Alok Kumar (Head, Social Sciences), Dr. Vinod Kumar (Head, CI&ST), and Dr. Som Dutt (Head, CPB&PHT) led the delegation through various ongoing research projects and shared valuable insights.
Accompanying the media team were Manoj Kumar Jali, Deputy Director, Swadhin Shakti Prasad, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Bhubaneswar, and Sanjiv Sharma, Assistant Director, PIB Shimla, who facilitated the visit.
The Odisha media delegation expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to witness the cutting-edge research at CPRI and acknowledged the importance of adopting innovative technologies to improve potato farming practices in Odisha. The visit was seen as an essential step toward fostering better awareness and collaboration in addressing the agricultural challenges faced by the state.
