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INDIAN COUNCIL OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

CPRI

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Central Potato Research Institute(Indian Council of Agricultural Research)

Shimla 171 001, HP, IndiaTel.: 0177-2625073 Fax: 0177-2624460

E-mail: dircpri@sancharnet.inWebsite: http://cpri.ernet.in C

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INDIAN COUNCIL OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

CPRI

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VISION - 2025VISION - 2025

Central Potato Research Institute

Shimla 171 001, HP, IndiaTel.: 0177-2625073 Fax: 0177-2624460

E-mail: dircpri@sancharnet.inWebsite: http://cpri.ernet.in

(Indian Council of Agricultural Research)

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Central Potato Research InstituteShimla 171 001, HP, IndiaTel. : 0177-2625073Fax : 0177-2624460E-mail : dircpri@sancharnet.inWebsite : http://cpri.ernet.in

Published by

DirectorDr. S.K. Pandey

Compiled and edited byS.K. Pandey, P.S. Naik, K.C. Sud, and S.K. Chakrabarti

Correct CitationCPRI - Perspective Plan Vision 2025Central Potato Research InstituteShimla 171 001, HP, India

July 2007

Printed atNirmal Vijay PrintersB 62/8, Naraina Industrial Area Phase II,New Delhi - 110028Ph: 25891449, 9811053617

ProductionAvnish Atrey

FOREWORD

Indian agriculture must continuously evolve to remain ever responsiveto manage the change and to meet the growing and diversified needs of differentstakeholders in the entire production to consumption chain. In order to capitalizeon the opportunities and to convert weaknesses into opportunities, we at theICAR attempted to visualize an alternate agricultural scenario from present totwenty years hence. In this endeavour, an in-depth analysis of the Strengths,Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) was undertaken to placeour research and technology development efforts in perspective so that wesucceed in our pursuit of doing better than the best. Accordingly, the researchable issue’s are identified,strategies drawn and programmes indicated to have commensurate projects and relevant activitiescoinciding with the launch of the 11th Five Year Plan.

The Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla will undertake basic and strategic researchaimed at the development of varieties and sustainable technologies for enhancing productivity andquality, diversification of processed products and minimizing post harvest losses of potato in thecountry. It has assigned priority for producing disease free breeder’s seed. Accordingly, the researchprogrammes have been suggested on a time scale with proper prioritisation to carry out researcheffectively. Emphasis has been laid on proper exploitation of wide genetic material, development ofparental lines and varieties resistant to late blight, viruses, bacterial wilt and other biotic/abiotic stressesthrough gene cloning and development of transgenics and marker assisted selection. Priority is alsoset for the development of IPM practices and technology assessment and refinement. The nationaland international linkages have been identified for proper scientific exchange.

It is expected that realizing the Vision embodied in the document would further ensure that theCPRI, Shimla continues to fulfill its mandate to make Indian agriculture locally, regionally and globallycompetitive. The efforts and valuable inputs provided by my colleagues at the ICAR Headquartersand by the Director and his team at the Institute level for over an year to develop Vision 2025 deserveappreciation.

(MANGALA RAI)Secretary, Department of Agriculture Research & Education

&Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Road, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi-110 001, India

March 2007

PREFACE

Potato, a native crop of South America, was introduced in India from Europe in the beginning of17th century. The crop has emerged as the fourth important food crop in India. Potato productionincreased at an annual compounded growth rate (ACGR) of around 5% during 1980 to 2000. Evenduring the current decade, potato production and yield registered 3.48 and 3.65% ACGR vis-à-visnegative trends for major cereals. As a consequence, India emerged as the third largest potato producerin the world after China and Russia. Despite that, per capita consumption of potato in India is muchbelow the world average (33 kg/year). Potato provides carbohydrates, minerals, vitamin C, a numberof B group vitamins, high quality proteins and dietary fiber. People of several European and LatinAmerican countries consume potato as a staple food. The tremendous importance of potato as asource of income for poor farmers and of food for the rural and urban poor is often overlooked in thedebate about improving food security and eradicating poverty in India. The country is now passingthrough a phase of yield stagnation in case of major food grains. High productive crop like potatoshould be encouraged now to counter the sagging growth in agricultural productivity.

“India Vision 2020” prepared by the Planning Commission, Govt. of India projected a scenarioin which the future agricultural sector would be “A vibrant, highly productive commercial farm sectorthat can ensure food & nutritional security, generate employment opportunities, stimulate industrialization,and produce renewable energy from biomass and fuel crops”. The potato has all the virtues to meetthose projected aspirations. It is a highly productive crop that can fit into the requirements of emergingfarm sector. Potato processing sector is currently in a high growth path giving a fillip to agri-business.Potato waste can also be an alternative for producing bio-fuels. It is a labour-intensive crop andcontributes significantly to employment generation in the rural economy.

The IMPACT (International Model for Policy Analysis of Agricultural Commodities and Trade)model of International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) projected an annual production of37.3 million metric tons of potato from 1.4 million ha by the year 2020 under baseline growth scenario,while 43.3 million metric tons from 1.6 million ha under high demand and production (HDP) growthscenario. Projected consumption by 2020 would be 43.20 million MT under baseline scenario and44.6 million MT under HDP growth scenario. Keeping the same growth rate under HDP growthscenario, the projected potato production during 2025 would be 51.85 million MT from 1.74 millionha area with average productivity of 28.95 t/ha. This productivity has to be achieved from a 90 dayscrop, that would mean 322 kg/ha/day production. Currently we produce 224 kg/ha/day in the fertilenorthern plains. Therefore, meticulous planning and vigorous effort are needed in potato research anddevelopment to realize those challenging projections.

This perspective plan presents the basic framework of the research strategies to achieve thattarget. The document has been divided into 21 sections. The first five sections describe the mandate,achievements and impact of research work done by the institute so far. The next two sections givedescription of the crop under global and national scenario. The section 8 presents the current strength,weakness, opportunities and threats of the crop in the country. The remaining sections elucidate theproposed strategies to achieve the goal. Hopefully, the strategies presented in this document will helpgive this crop appropriate consideration in future deliberations about the national food system andthereby improve efforts to ensure access to sufficient food and income for all people.

We are thankful to all head of divisions and stations for the valuable guidance that they providedat all stages in the preparation of this document. We are also thankful to all scientific and other staff fortheir help in developing the draft manuscript.

Shimla SK PandeyJuly 2007 Director

CONTENT

Foreword

Preface

Executive Summary

1. Preamble 1

2. Mandate 5

3. Growth 5

4. Research Achievements 8

5. Impact 18

6. Potato Production and Utilization: Global Scenario 23

7. Potato Production and Utilization: Indian Scenario 29

8. Swot Analysis 32

9. Perspective 38

10. Research Issues and Strategies 40

11. Research Priorities 42

12. Funding Needs 55

13. Linkages 57

14. Critical Inputs 61

15. Revenue Generation during the period 2005-2025 62

16. HRD Plan of CPRI for the period 2005-2025 63

17. Risk Analysis 64

18. Review 64

19. Resource Generation 65

20. Outputs 66

21. Outcome 69

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) was established in 1949. Since its inception CPRIhas grown rapidly. Manpower has increased by 4.5 fold during the period of I to X plan and the plan-budget by 163.3 folds during the period of II to X plan. Apart from the headquarters at Shimla, CPRIat present has 7 research stations including CPRI campus at Modipuram located between 11 and 32o

N latitudes, 75 and 910 E longitudes, and 53–2501 m altitude, covering wide range of agro-climatesin the country.

The All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato (AICRP, Potato) was established in1970. It presently has 22 centres located in different agro-climatic zones of the country. Manpowerand budget of AICRP (Potato) has increased by 1.5 folds during the period of IV to X plan and 22.8folds during V to X plan, respectively.

The primary mandate of CPRI is to undertake basic and strategic research aimed at the developmentof varieties and sustainable technologies for enhancing productivity and utilization of potato in thecountry. It also has the responsibility of producing disease-free basic seed to meet the country’srequirement.

Development and release of 42 high yielding cultivars, development of a “Seed Plot Technique”that made it possible to produce disease-free seed potatoes in the plains, establishment of a NationalDisease-Free Seed Production Programme, development of package of practices for sustainablepotato production and controlling important pests and diseases and growing potatoes in the differentagro-climatic zones have been the major achievements of CPRI. A good germplasm collection, bio-sciences library and biotechnology laboratory have been established. The development of optimalmethods for raising a commercial potato crop using the botanical seed as planting material; forecastinglate blight occurrence in the hills and plains; pathogen detection using electron microscopy/ELISA/NASH; diagnosing soil and tissue nutrient deficiencies; mechanizing potato cultivation and post harvesthandling; breaking tuber dormancy and storing table potatoes without refrigeration for short periods inthe plains; identification of new pests/diseases and profitable potato based cropping systems for differentregions and superior methods of irrigation; determination of pesticide residues; studies on the economicsof potato production and storage; and cloning of economically important genes and production oftransgenic potatoes are achievements worth mentioning.

In keeping with the international standing of CPRI as a centre of excellence in potato research,significant advances have also been made in basic studies on statistical theory as applied to potatoresearch; inheritance of characters; mechanism of spread of late blight; interactions of fertilizers andorganic manures; biofertilizers; biocontrol agents; antibiotic-enhanced production of virulent variantsfrom avirulent strains of Ralstonia solanacearum; photosynthesis and productivity; resistance to abioticstresses; physiological basis of seed vigour; and keeping quality and processing quality of potatoes.Testing and release of 17 high yielding varieties; assessment of true potato seed (TPS) technology;generation of a number of recommendations on cultural practices, potato based intensive croppingsystems and management of diseases/insect pests have been the major achievements of AICRP (Potato).

In five and a half decade (1949-50 to 2004-2005), the production, area and average yield ofpotato in India has increased by 15.6, 5.6, and 2.7 times, respectively. The annual compound growthrates (ACGRs) for potato production in India during the period 1950-51 to 2003-04 was 5.74% ascompared to wheat (5.13%), rice (2.68%) and total food grains (2.60%). The potato contributeseffectively to the national economy also. During the period 2005-2006, the average area underpotato was 0.66% of the total cropped area of the country and its contribution was 1.74% to thetotal value of agricultural output. The corresponding figures, for wheat were 13.51% for the area and8.12% for the value, and for rice 22.69% for the area and 17.01% for the value.

The explosive growth in potato production was made possible by the outstanding success ofCPRI in developing of high yielding varieties, package of practices for potato production/protectionfor different regions and increasing the availability of disease-free seed stocks. However, certainareas that had been given relatively less emphasis earlier have now become very important. The areasthat now need special attention have been identified. These are identification and prioritization ofregion specific potato research; identification and problem analysis of laggard potato growers inIndia; better exploitation of the wide genetic variability available in the potato through conventional/non-conventional methods; development of parental lines resistant/tolerant to late blight, viruses,bacterial wilt and cold induced sweetening; development of varieties for export, early maturity, goodprocessing quality, good keeping quality, resistance to biotic/abiotic stresses, suitable for cold chipping,responsiveness to low fertilizer and water; development of environment-friendly agro-techniquesinvolving INM/IWM; gene cloning, transgenics, marker assisted selection and genome sequencing;IPM/IDM and PRA; development of simulation models and Decision Support Systems for improvingproductivity; agroecological zoning of potato for spatial and temporal diversification using GIS; pre-harvest forecasting of potato acreage and production using remote sencing, GIS and crop models,development of varieties and technologies for production of organic and baby potatoes; integrationof micro-propagation in potato seed production; seed production linkages with government andprivate sector in seed deficient areas; and technology assessment and refinement through extensionactivities.

The major strengths of the potato in India are: 85% of the crop is raised under assured irrigationas a short duration crop; availability of indigenous high yielding varieties; efficient national disease –free seed production programme; large cold-storage capacity of about 19.59 million tonnes availablein the country (2005); high employment generation potential during potato production and processing;potential of potato research in India to become a financially self-sustaining activity; high benefit/costratio of the high productivity and high food value; possibility of exporting fresh potatoes and processedpotato products; and agronomic flexibility for its inclusion in intensive cropping systems. The Majorweaknesses are unsatisfactory distribution and multiplication of the basic seed produced by CPRI;limited genetic variability available in the country; inadequate dispersion and adoption of improvedproduction technologies in some parts of the country; problems related to transportation, storage andmarketing; inadequate availability of varieties with superior processing qualities; and the high cost ofproduction. The major threats are risk of importing exotic pests and parasites, and the potential threatto the environment because of the high input nature of the crop.

It is proposed that by the year 2025, the total annual potato production in the country will bearoun 43 million tones from 1.6 million ha with an average productivity of 26.3 t/ha. Most of theincrease in area is expected to arise from the adoption of new cropping systems and land use patterns,involving inter-cropping, relay cropping and multiple cropping. High temperature tolerance will alsoincrease the flexibility in planting dates and make it possible to fit potato into even more diversecropping systems and expanding cultivation in non-traditional areas.

The research priorities identified to meet above targets are based on the current national/internationalscenario and recommendations made by the RACs and latest QRT. The research activities have beenphased into four time frames based on their priorities. The stakeholders for research output by CPRI(varieties, technologies, etc) would be farmers, potato based industries, private seed companies,exporters, SAUs, State Governments, PSUs, scientists and national/international organizations involvedin potato research and development.

The anticipated expenditure during the XI plan period is Rs. 2324 lakhs under Plan and Rs.13143 lakhs under Non-Plan. About 27% of this will be raised by Institute from its own resources.The anticipated expenditure for AICRP (Potato) during the XI plan period is about Rs. 1629 lakhsout of which the share of ICAR is 1222 lakhs.

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1. PREAMBLE

1.1. Potato: A Potential Crop to Fight Hunger and Malnutrition

The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a major world food crop. In world food production,

potato is exceeded only by rice, wheat and maize. Potatoes are consumed by over one billion

people world over; half of them are in the developing countries alone.

Poverty and large population are significant and persistent problems in India. These

problems besides having close relationship with food insecurity are also related to poor health

and malnutrition. Food and nutritional security in India is, therefore, an important national

priority. Increase in population, urbanization and man-made creation of wastelands is

shrinking arable land and water resources. The present per capita available land in India is

only 0.16 ha. During last one decade the major food crops are reaching their practical limits

of production and there is very slow genetic improvement in yield levels of these crops. The

situation is further aggravated by declining input–use efficiency particularly for chemical

fertilizers, emergence of resistant pests and diseases and declining output-input ratio. All

these factors have resulted in making farming less remunerative for resource poor farmers of

the country.

A short duration crop like potato, which produces more dry matter, edible energy and

edible protein per unit land and time than many other major crops such as wheat, rice and

maize is the most potential and nutritionally superior crop for fighting hunger and

malnutrition. Short duration and wide flexibility in planting and harvesting time are potato’s

valuable traits that help in adjusting this crop in intensive-cropping systems without putting

much pressure on scarce resources such as land, water, fertilizers, etc. It also generates

larger returns per unit land and time and employment during crop season and post harvest

handling.

1.2. Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI)

Potato is not native to India. It was introduced in the country from Europe in the beginning

of early 17th century. During 1824 to 1939 systematic attempts were made to introduce new

potato varieties in the country, mainly from Europe. These, however, could create very little

impression as most of these varieties either failed to yield well under Indian conditions or

degenerated and were lost. The failure of introduced varieties in India was mainly because

these varieties were primarily bred to suit temperate long days of summer in Europe, whereas,

potato in India is grown during short days of sub-tropical winters.

In view of the failure of exotic potato varieties and technologies under Indian agro-

climatic conditions, a need was felt that potato cultivation in India can not depend on exotic

varieties and technologies and the country must have its own research and development

program for potato. A scheme for establishment of the Central Potato Research Institute

was, therefore, drawn up in 1945 under the guidance of Sir Herbert Stewart, the then

Agricultural Advisor to the Government of India and the CPRI was established in 1949 at

Patna. Hills being the ideal location for producing and maintaining healthy seed and using

wide potato genetic base through hybridization for breeding improved varieties, on the

recommendations of an expert committee, the headquarters of CPRI was shifted in hills at

Shimla in 1956.

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During the period 1956 to 1979, a chain of regional research stations was established

in different potato growing zones of the country to address local problems of potato

cultivation. At present the institute has seven regional research stations located in different

parts of the country (Fig. 1), while three research stations established at Darjeeling (West

Bengal), Mukteshwar (Uttaranchal) and Rajgurunagar (Maharashtra) were closed some

time back.

Potato research at the institute is carried out in six disciplines, viz., Crop Improvement,

Crop Production, Crop Protection, Crop Physiology & PHT, Seed Technology and Social

Sciences.

Fig. 1. CPRI and its regional stations

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Organizational set up of CPRI is shown below:

1.3. All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato [AICRP (Potato)]

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) started AICRP on potato in 1970

with its headquarters at CPRI, Shimla. At present AICRP on potato has 22 centres located at

regional research stations of CPRI/ICAR institutes and several State Agricultural Universities

(Table 1). Improved varieties of potato and related agro-techniques developed in the country

are evaluated at these centres before they are recommended for commercial use.

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Table 1: Centres of AICRP (Potato)

Sr. No. Location Year of Start Address

ICAR /CPRI BASED CENTRES

1. Jalandhar 1971 Central Potato Research Station, Jalandhar (Punjab)

2. Ootacamund 1971 Central Potato Research Station, Ootacamund (TN)

3. Patna 1971 Central Potato Research Station, Patna (Bihar)

4. Rajgurunagar 1971 NRC on Onion & Garlic, Rajgurunagar (MS)

5. Shillong 1971 Central Potato Research Station, Shillong (Meghalaya)

SEED PREPARATORY UNITS

1. Kufri 1976 Central Potato Research Station, Kufri (HP)

2. Modipuram 1976 Central Potato Research Institute Campus, Modipuram.Meerut (UP)

UNIVERSITY BASED CENTRES

1. Bhubaneshwar 1971 Orissa University of Agric. & Tech., Bhubaneshwar (Orissa)

2. Raipur 2000 IG Krishi Vishwavidyalya, Raipur (Chhattisgarh)

3. Chhindwara 1971 JN Krishi Vishwavidyalya, Chhindwara (MP)

4. Deesa 1971 Gujarat Agricl. University, Deesa (Gujarat)

5. Dharwad 1993 University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (Karnataka)

6. Dholi 1994 Rajendra Agricultural University, Tirhut College of Agriculture,Dholi (Bihar)

7. Faizabad 1987 ND Univ. of Agric. & Technology, Faizabad (UP)

8. Hassan 1993 UAS Agricultural Research Station, Hassan, (Karnataka)

9. Hissar 1975 CCS Haryana Agril. University, Hissar (Haryana)

10. Jorhat 1975 Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat (Assam)

11. Kalyani 1971 BC Krishi Vishwavidyalya, Kalyani (West Bengal)

12. Kota 1987 Rajasthan Agril. University,Regional Research Station, Kota(Rajasthan)

13. Pantnagar 1975 GB Pant Univ. of Agric. & Tech., Pantnagar (Uttranchal )

14. Srinagar 1972 SK Univ. of Agric. Science & Tech. (K), Shalimar, Srinagar(J & K)

VOLUNTARY CENTRES

1 Ranichauri 1984 GB Pant Univ. of Agric. & Tech., Ranichauri (Uttranchal)

Together, the CPRI and AICRP account for more than 95% potato related research in India.

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2. MANDATE

2.1. Central Potato Research Institute

The research activities of CPRI are aimed at:

• To undertake basic and strategic research for developing technologies to enhance productivity andutilization of the potato.

• To provide leadership and co-ordinate network research with state agricultural universities forgenerating location and variety-specific technologies and for solving area specific problems of potatoproduction.

• To produce disease-free basic seed of different notified varieties developed by the Institute.

• To act as a centre for training in research methodologies and technology for upgrading scientificmanpower in modern technologies for the potato production.

• To collaborate with national and international agencies in achieving the above objectives.

• To act as a national repository of scientific information relevant to potato.

• To provide consultancy in potato research and development

2.2. All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato

The mandates of AICRP (Potato) are:

• To undertake location specific research for identifying varieties and sustainable crop productiontechnologies for enhancing productivity and utilization of potato.

• To identify areas suitable for potato seed production.

• To carry out multi-location trials on newly developed potato hybrids/TPS populations.

• To evaluate agronomic practices including identification of remunerative potato based cropping systemsin different regions.

• To evaluate plant protection measures and post-harvest technologies aimed at increasing productionand productivity of potato in the country as a whole.

• To organize periodic workshops/group meetings to bring out recommendations based on the resultsof the coordinated trials to address the region specific problems in potato production.

3. GROWTH

Since its inception in 1949, the institute has expanded its research activities in new emerging fieldscovering almost all major potato growing regions of the country. Some new disciplines relevant to emergingpriorities have been added, whereas some disciplines have been merged. In 1998, 44 research projectswere consolidated into 21 multidisciplinary research programs to avoid duplication. Potato research at theinstitute is now carried out in six disciplines, viz., Crop Improvement, Crop Production, Crop Protection,Crop Physiology & PHT, Seed Technology and Social Sciences.

3.1. Infrastructure

With increase in research activities at the institute, there has been significant improvement in followingresearch infrastructure.

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3.1.1. Research Laboratories

In addition to modernizing existing laboratories of various disciplines and regional research stationsfollowing new laboratories have been added.

a. State-of-the-art biotechnology laboratory at Shimla

b. Radio-tracer laboratory at Shimla

c. GIS and crop modeling infrastructure at Shimla

d. Tissue culture facilities at Modipuram and Shillong

e. Soil testing laboratory at Modipuram

f. Cell biology laboratory at Shimla

g. Plant pathology laboratory at Shimla

3.1.2. Library

From its small beginning, the CPRI library has now grown to one of the major potato libraries of theworld. It currently has about 32,300 documents including 12,500 books and 13,020 research journals.Entire CPRI library has been automated for easy access through LAN. CD ROM databases (CAB,Agricola, Agris, Current Contents, Derwent Biotech, ISA and Nucssi on CD) have been developed overthe years. All the regional stations have also been provided with small libraries.

3.1.3. Farm

CPRI and its regional research stations have about 521 ha of farm area which is used for potato seedproduction and experimental purposes.

3.1.4. Buildings

New laboratory buildings have been added to the existing infrastructure at Shimla and its regionalresearch stations. The important additions had been auditorium building, administrative block, ATIC building,seed technology laboratory, cell biology laboratory, rabbit house, and extension of library building andplant pathology building at Shimla. Pump house, potato shed and new laboratory building at Patna. Hostelbuilding, potato shed, record room, prototype testing laboratory and scooter-cum-car parking shed atJalandhar. Potato shed and store room at Modipuram. Construction of rain water storage tank, dam,potato drying shed at Shillong, and renovation of office building and seed store at Muthorai (Ootacamund).

3.1.5. Others

In addition to above, there had been significant additions to the infrastructure at the headquarters andalmost all the regional stations in the form of glass-houses, net-houses, residential buildings, modern andefficient irrigation facilities, roads, development and fencing of the farm areas, etc.

3.2. Budget

3.2.1. Central Potato Research Institute

Budgetary expenditure of CPRI under plan and non-plan over different plan periods is given in Table2. With the growth of the institute and manpower there had been 16332% in plan and 19627% increase innon- plan budget during the period 1956-57 to 2005-06.

3.2.2. All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato

Plan-wise budget of AICRP (Potato) is given in Table 3. There had been 2104% increase in planbudget during the period V to X plan.

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Table 3: Plan-wise budget of AICRP (Potato) from 1969-1974 to 2006-07 Rs. in Lakhs

Plan Period Total outlay/expenditure ICAR share (75%)

IV 1969-1974 — 16.85

V 1974-1979 41.10 30.82

AP* 1979-1980 11.85 8.89

VI 1980-1985 76.57 57.43

VII 1985-1990 101.11 76.57

APs* 1990-92 (2 years) 100.20 75.15

VIII 1992-1997 273.33 205.00

IX 1997-2002* 674.57 505.93

X 2002-2006 - 2006-2007 1046.32 784.74

% Increase in X plan over V plan; *Actual expenditure

Table 2: Budgetary expenditure of CPRI from 1956-57 to 2006-2007 Rs. in Lakhs

Plan Period Expenditure under Total Expenditure

Plan Non-plan

II 1956-1957 - 1960-1961 8.04 24.99 33.03

III 1961-1962 - 1965-1966 10.84 55.32 66.16

APs* 1966-1969 (3 years) 4.36 57.46 61.82

IV 1969-1970 - 1973-1974 86.79 131.28 218.07

V 1974-1975 - 1978-1979 144.88 210.08 354.96

APs* 1979-1980 119.60 154.94 274.54

VI 1980-1981 - 1984-1985 258.66 630.47 889.13

VII 1985-1986 - 1989-1990 271.37 1131.70 1403.07

APs* 1990-92 (2 years) 190.02 600.00 790.02

VIII 1992-1993 - 1996-1997 854.16 2130.65 2984.81

IX 1997-1998 - 2001-2002 1073.49 4658.28 5731.77

X 2002-2006 - 2006-2007 1401.20 6407.37 7808.57

% Increase in X plan over II Plan; * Annual Plans

3.3. Manpower

3.3.1. Central Potato Research Institute

With increase in research activities of the institute the manpower also increased over the period. Thisincrease in manpower is depicted in Table 4. However, due to 10% cut imposed by the Council onsanctioned positions and ban on direct recruitment there had been reduction in manpower from 1997onwards.

3.3.2. All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato

Manpower under AICRP (Potato) over different plan periods is shown in Table 5.

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Table 4: Manpower at CPRI over different plan periods

Plan Sanctioned manpower under categories Total

Scientific Technical Administrative Auxiliary Supporting

Pre-Plan 17 10 9 0 20 56

1st 28 24 23 1 30 106

2nd 48 54 36 5 35 178

3rd 78 74 52 12 47 263

4th 122 89 70 21 180 482

5th 202 182 131 53 272 840

6th 210 200 139 54 278 881

7th 212 205 141 54 280 892

8th 180 205 146 56 272 859

9th 160 240 139 00 258 797

10th 135 224 127 00 220 706

In position as on 109 207 122 00 211 649*31.03.2007

*Excluding one RMP

Table 5: Manpower under AICRP (Potato) over different plan periods

Plan Sanctioned manpower under categories Total

Scientific Technical Administrative Auxiliary Supporting

4th 11 32 9 0 8 60

5th 39 47 14 0 13 113

6th 39 47 14 0 13 113

7th 46 41 12 0 12 111

8th 38 30 9 0 11 88

9th 38 30 9 0 11 88

10th 38 30 9 0 11 88

In position as on 37 30 9 0 11 8731.03.2007

4. SALIENT RESEARCH ACHIVEMENTS

4.1. Centarl Potato Research Institute

• Establishment of a germplasm collection having 1500 accessions of Solanum tuberosum ssp.tuberosum, 800 accessions of Solanum tuberosum ssp andigena, and 450 accessions of wild andsemi cultivated species. This collection is being maintained, evaluated and utilized forbreeding potato varieties possessing tolerance to biotic/abiotic stresses and other desirable attributessuch as high yield, adaptability, tuber characters, keeping quality and processing attributes.

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• Developed 42 high-yielding varieties belonging to early (70-80 days), medium (90-100 days) andlate (100-110 days) maturity groups (Table 6; Fig. 2). These varieties are suitable for growing in theplains, north Indian hills and other special problem areas like plateau region, Sikkim and north Bengalhills, and south Indian hills (Fig. 3). All the varieties developed for hills and newly released mediumduration varieties for the plains possess resistance to late blight. Varieties with resistance/tolerance tocyst nematodes, wart, viruses, frost, water stress, and high thermo-periods have also been bred toaddress specific problems. Of the 42 varieties developed, 14 possess multiple resistances to differentbiotic and abiotic stresses. Besides, 7 varieties are suitable for processing.

Fig 2. Improved potato varieties developed by CPRI

Table 6: Indian potato varieties developed by the CPRI

Variety Year of Salient features Areas of adaptationrelease

Kufri Kisan 1958 Late maturing; tuber white, large, round, North Indian plainsand with deep eyes

Kufri Kuber 1958 Early maturing; tuber white, medium, oval and North Indian plains andtapering towards crown ends; resistant to PLRV Plateau regions

Kufri Kumar 1958 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, oval and North Indian hillstapering toward heel ends; moderately resistantto late blight

Kufri Kundan 1958 Medium maturing; tuber white, round to oval North Indian hillsand flattened; moderately resistant to late blight

Contd......

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Variety Year of Salient features Areas of adaptationrelease

Kufri Red 1958 Medium maturing; tuber red, medium and round North eastern plainswith deep eyes

Kufri Safed 1958 Late maturing; tuber white, medium round with North Indian planspicked red-purple eyes

Kufri Neela 1963 Late maturing; tuber white, medium round with South Indian hillsdeep eyes; moderately resistant to late blight

Kufri Sindhuri 1967 Late maturing; tuber red, medium, round with North Indian plainsdeep eyes; moderately resistant to late blight;tolerant to PLRV, drought and heat stresses

Kufri Alankar 1968 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, oblong North Indian planswith fleet eyes; resistant to late blight

Kufri Chamatkar 1968 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, round with North Indian plainsdeep eyes; resistant to early blight

Kufri 1968 Early maturing; tuber white, large, oval with North Indian plains &Chandramukhi fleet eyes; susceptible to late blight plateau regions

Kufri Jeevan 1968 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, oval North Indian hillswith fleet eyes; resistant to late blight andwart; moderately resistant to early blight

Kufri Jyoti 1968 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, oval North Indian hills &with fleet eyes; resistant to wart; moderately plains; South Indian hillsresistant to early and late blight

Kufri Khasigaro 1968 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, round North eastern hillsto oval with deep eyes; resistant to late blightand moderately resistant to early blight

Kufri Naveen 1968 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, oval with North eastern hillsfleet eyes; resistant to late blight and wart

Kufri Neelamani 1968 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, oval, South Indian hillsflattened with fleet eyes; moderately resistantto late blight

Kufri Sheetman 1968 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium, oval North western plainswith fleet eyes; resistant to frost

Kufri Muthu 1971 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, round South Indian hillsto oval with medium deep eyes; moderatelyresistant to late blight

Kufri Lauvkar 1972 Early maturing; tuber white, large, round, Plateau regionsfleet eyes; heat tolerant

Kufri Dewa 1973 Late maturing; tuber white, medium, round North Indian plainswith deep and picked purple eyes;resistant to frost

Contd......

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Variety Year of Salient features Areas of adaptationrelease

Kufri Badshah 1979 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, oval North Indian plains &with fleet eyes; resistant to PVX; moderately plateau regionsresistant to early and late blights

Kufri Bahar 1980 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, round North Indian plainsto oval with medium deep eyes

Kufri Lalima 1982 Medium maturing; tuber red, large, round North Indian plainswith deep eyes; resistant to PVY; moderatelyresistant to early blight

Kufri Sherpa 1983 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium, North Bengal hills &flattened with deep eyes; resistant to wart; Sikkimmoderately resistant to early and late blights

Kufri Swarna 1985 Medium maturing; tuber white, large to South Indian hillsmedium, oval with fleet eyes; resistant tocyst nematodes and late blight

Kufri Megha 1989 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium, North eastern hillsoval with fleet eyes; resistant to late blight

Kufri Jawahar 1996 Early maturing; tuber white, medium, round North Indian plains &to oval with fleet eyes; moderately resistant plateau regionsto late blight

Contd......

Fig 3. Popular Indian potato varieties in India

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Variety Year of Salient features Areas of adaptationrelease

Kufri Sutlej 1996 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, oval North Indian plainswith fleet eyes; moderately resistant to late blight

Kufri Ashoka 1996 Early maturing; tuber white, large oval-long North Indian plainswith fleet eyes

Kufri Pukhraj 1998 Medium maturing; tuber white, large, oval with North Indian plains &fleet eyes; resistant to early blight; moderately plateau regionsresistant to late blight

Kufri Giriraj 1998 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium to North Indian hillslarge, oval with fleet eyes; resistant to late blight

Kufri 1998 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium to North Indian plainsChipsona-1 large, oval with fleet eyes; resistant to late

blight; suitable for processing

Kufri 1998 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium, North Indian plainsChipsona-2 round-oval with fleet eyes; resistant to late

blight; tolerant to frost; suitable for processing

Kufri Anand 1998 Medium maturing; tuber white, medium, North Indian plainsoval-long flattened with fleet eyes; resistantto late blight; tolerant to frost

Kufri Kanchan 1999 Medium maturing, tubers pink, medium, North-Bengal hills andoblong with shallow eyes, immune to wart Sikkimmoderately resistant to late blight, slow rateof degeneration

Kufri Arun 2005 Medium maturing, tubers red, medium ovoid Eastern plainswith medium deep eyes, moderately resistantto late blight

Kufri Pushkar 2005 Medium maturing, tubers white, medium, North-western Indo-ovoid with medium deep eyes, resistant to Gangetic plainslate blight and wart

Kufri Shailja 2005 Medium maturing, tubers white, medium, North Indian hillsround with medium deep eyes, moderatelyresistant to late blight

Kufri Surya 2006 Medium maturing, tubers white, large ovoid Plateau regionwith shallow eyes, heat tolerant, immune to wart

Kufri 2006 Medium maturing, tuber yellow, medium, North-Indian plainsChipsona-3 ovoid with medium deep eyes, resistant to

late blight, suitable for processing

Kufri Himalini 2006 Medium maturing, tubers white medium, North-Indian hillsovoid with shallow eyes, moderatelyresistant to late blight

Kufri Himsona 2007 Medium maturing, tubers white, medium, North-western hillsround with shallow eyes, resistant to late blight.suitable for processing

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Some of the Indian potato cultivars are also under commercial cultivation in other countries (Fig. 4).

• Potato transgenics have been developed for insect resistance (cry1Ab gene), virus resistance (CP-PVY gene), superior nutritional quality (AmA1 gene producing essential amino acid rich storageprotein), cold chipping (invertase inhibitor gene) and amylase-free starch production (PTGS of GBSSgene). Field-testing of AmA1 transgenics is in advanced stage and some of the promising transgenicsare likely to be released for commercial cultivation.

• Standardized tissue culture techniques for micro-propagation, in vitro conservation of genetic resourcesand genetic transformation. Meristem culture coupled with micro-propagation has been successfullyintegrated with potato seed production programme. More than 1300 germplasm accessions havebeen conserved in in vitro form and we plan to conserve entire germplasm within next 15 years. Anefficient method has also been developed for long term cryo-conservation in potato.

• Molecular characterization of 39 commercial cultivars and 24 advanced hybrids has been done usingRAPD and SSRs.

• Osmotin and invertase inhibitor genes have been cloned from Solanum chacoense. It is envisagedto deploy these genes for management of drought/late blight and cold induced sweetening in potato,respectively.

• Development of “Seed Plot Technique” made it possible to carry out disease-free seed productionin the plains under low aphid periods (Fig. 5) and establish a national disease-free seed productionprogramme. This programme annually produces about 2600 t of breeder’s seed, which is sufficientfor the country’s requirement if multiplied and utilized properly. The availability of disease free seedin adequate quantities is a major input for significant increase in potato production in the country.“Seed Plot Technique” was also instrumental in decentralization of potato breeding programme.

Fig 4. Indian potato varieties/hybrids under cultivation in other countries

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This technique enabled seedling raising, evaluation, selection and multiplication of breeding materialunder disease free condition in the plains. This has greatly helped in development of zone-specificvarieties and varietal diversification.

• Identification of suitable parental lines for production of high yielding botanical seed (TPS) and its usefor raising commercial crop in potato seed deficient areas is another important contribution of potatoresearch (Fig. 6). Three TPS populations, viz., HPS I/13, TPS C-3 and 92-PT-27 have been identifiedfor commercialization. However, of late it has been observed that the technology needs somerefinements for its successful adoption.

Fig 5. Seed Plot Technique

Fig 6. TPS Production technology for raising commercial potato crop

• Development of package of practices for different agro-climatic regions of the country. These packagescomprise integrated potato production methods for maximizing yields without putting much pressureon scarce resources such as fertilizers and water.

• To increase potato production per unit area and efficient use of scarce resources, the institute hasidentified profitable potato-based cropping systems in different agro-climates including inter-croppingof potato with sugarcane and wheat (Fig. 7). Optimal schedules for integrated management of fertilizers,water and weeds in these intensive cropping systems have also been worked out.

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• Radio tracer studies showed that farmyard manure reduced transformation of fertilizer P to Fe-P thusincreasing Solution-P in acidic soils where P fixation is a major problem. Studies also indicatedsignificant contribution of Solution-P, Ca-P and Al-P in meeting phosphorus needs of potatoes.

• Auto radiographs indicated significant movement of sulphate ions in the soil profile in soils of HimachalPradesh whereas that of phosphate movement was restricted to top 20 cm layer only.

• Auto-radio graph showed a dense root mass of potato plant grown with integrated use of P and FYM.

• Radiotracer studies involving 32P and 86Rb revealed increase in P and K availability to the potato inpresence of crop residue of wheat and paddy straw @ 2.5 t/ha in early stages of crop growth.

• Use of GIS for spatial and temporal diversification of potato crop was undertaken. Cursory look atthe meteorological and soil data indicated that potato cultivation is possible in many additional locationsother than Indo-Gangetic plains. Using GIS, these places have been identified for spatial diversification.Temporal diversification is possible through increase in the area and productivity of early and springcrops in the northern Indo-Gangetic plains. This is expected to spread the availability of fresh potatofor a long period and reduce the gluts.

• Potato model (INFOCROP-POTATO) has been developed to determine the best growing period,yield potential during the growing period, the optimum management practices to achieve the yieldpotential and also to develop new efficient cropping systems.

• There is much scope for use of remote sensing in potato development. The tool is being used forestimation of acreage and production prior to harvest so that proper planning can be made in advancefor marketing, storage, etc.

• “Potato Pest Manager” for management of important insect pests and diseases has been developed.

• Late blight forecasting systems were developed for the hills and plains to manage this dreaded disease.These have been instrumental in reducing the labour and cost on plant protection by avoidingunnecessary and untimely use of fungicides.

• In order to make potato cultivation eco-friendly, integrated packages of practices for management oflate blight, bacterial wilt, viruses and soil & tuber-borne diseases, potato tuber moth (PTM) and cyst

Fig 7. Intensive cropping systems in plains

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nematodes were developed. These packages included host resistance, sanitation, crop rotations, useof safer chemicals, predators, bio-control agents, botanicals and agronomic practices.

• Standardized sensitive virus detection methods such as ELISA, ISEM and NASH (Fig. 8). Thesemethods are of great help in eliminating quarantine pathogens from the imported germplasm material

having low concentration of viruses/viroids and also testing of mericlones. Besides, deployment ofthese methods in seed production resulted in zeroing the virus incidence in basic/nucleus seed.

• Improvised low cost on-farm storage structures that can hold table/processing potatoes for 3-4months in north Indian plains have been developed (Fig. 9).

Fig 8. Sensitive virus detection techinques

Fig 9. Cost effective on-farm storage structure operating without energy

• Storage of table and processing potatoes at 3-4 0C in cold stores leads to accumulation of reducingsugars which makes tubers unfit for processing. Institute has standardized method of storing potatoesat elevated temperature (10-12 0C) by CIPC spray to check sprout growth. This has revolutionizedcontinuous availability of raw material for processing in the country.

• Dissemination of technologies is one of the major activities of CPRI. This is achieved through technical/extension bulletins, training courses and several other programmes like Lab-to-Land, ORP, TAD,IVLP and TAR.

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• To pool resources and expertise in the country, several research and development linkages have beendeveloped by CPRI. The organizations involved are: CIP, Lima, Peru; Cornell University USA;Wisconsin University, USA; NRCPB, IARI, New Delhi; CTRI, Rajhamundri; NCIPM, New Delhi;NCPGR, New Delhi; TERI, New Delhi; BARC, Trombay; Space Application Centre, ISROAhmedabad; NDDB, New Delhi; NRM, New Delhi; United Phosphorus, New Delhi; Global AgriSystem, Delhi; Me Cains Food India Pvt. Ltd., Delhi; KF Biotech, Pune; Pepsi Foods, Gurgaon; M/s Agrico Quality Ltd. Kolkata; M/S Chambal Agritech, New Delhi; HP University, Shimla; IHBT;HPKVV, Palampur and IGNOU, Shimla.

4.2. All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato

• Since the inception of AICPIP in 1970-71, several hybrids were evaluated in the multilocation trialsunder the project, and 17 hybrids have already been released as varieties for different regions.

• Standardized the techniques for commercial production of hybrid TPS under short day conditions inthe plains. Technologies for raising planting material (seedlings/seedling tubers) from TPS and theirutilization for producing ware potato crop were developed. Three promising TPS families (HPS-I/13, TPS C-3 and 92-PT-27) have been recommended for release.

• Identified optimum time of planting, seed rates and seed size for efficient use of resources and inputsin different regions of the country.

• Established fertilizer needs of potato crop in different agro-eco-regions on the mode and time offertilizer application, responses to nutrients and their residual effects on subsequent crops vis-à-visnitrogen needs of potato when planted on different dates at a particular location.

• Worked out irrigation schedules/water requirement of potato crop based on the prevailing soil typesand climatic conditions, and the effect of mulching on the yield and water use efficiency. Identifiedpre- and post-emergence weedicides for the control of weeds in the potato crop.

• Identified remunerative potato-based cropping sequences (Potato-Jute-Paddy in West Bengal; Potato-Watermelon-Cowpea in tarai area of UP; Potato-Okra-Soyabean in Satpura plateau; Potato-Rice(Summer)-Rice (kharif) in Assam; Potato-Spinach-Radish in Srinagar) and inter cropping of maize(after every row of potato with full N and half of P & K at potato planting) in rabi along with potatoprovided additional returns to the farmers over the sole crop of maize in Satpura plateau of MP.

• Identified suitable varieties of potato, rice and wheat for diversifying potato cultivation in the rice-wheat system and to bring more area under potato for enhancing its production and productivity.

• Mulching of early potato crop with paddy straw, paddy husk, maize and Dhaincha sticks was foundbeneficial at many centres.

• Bio-fertilizers, viz., Azotobacter and phosphosolubilizing bacteria (PSB), increased potato yield andeconomize on the P doses.

• Developed spray schedule using systemic and contact fungicides either alone or in combination forcontrol of late blight on the popular potato varieties in north-western plains, north-eastern plains andthe central plains.

• Standardized and recommended boric acid treatment (3% boric acid for 30 min.) as dip/spray againsttuber borne diseases like black scurf and common scab to replace environmentally hazardous organo-mercurial compounds (OMCs).

• Standardized package for managing potato stem necrosis disease in warmer areas.

• Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and Granulosis virus (GV) were effective as bio-control agents in controllingwhite grubs and potato tuber moth (PTM) respectively.

• Identified the suitability of heap storage for potato at harvest in different potato growing regions.

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Fig 11. India ranks 4th in area and 3rd in potato production. (Source: FAOSTAT 2006)

5. IMPACT

5.1. Growth

5.1.1. Increase in Area, Production and Productivity

The impact of extensive potato research and development in the country during last 55 years hadbeen phenomenal in all aspects of potato production. The crop has witnessed 5.6 time increase in area,15.6 time increase in production and 2.7 time increase in productivity during the period 1949-50 to2004-2005 (Fig. 10). The area, yield and production in 1949-50 was 0.234 million ha, 6.59 t/ha and1.54 million tonnes, respectively. Averaged over last three years (2002-2003 to 2004-05), the countryproduced 23.31 million tonnes of potatoes from an area of 1.26 million hectares with an average yieldof 17.20 t/ha.

Fig 10. Per cent increase in area, productivity and production of potato over 1949-50.(Source:DES, MoA, Govt. of India)

Based on average area and production during last five years (2001-05), India ranks 4th in area and3rd in production in the world (Fig. 11)

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Table 7: Annual compound growth rates (ACGRs) for major food crops during 1980-81 to 2003-2004 (Base: TE 1981-82 = 100)

Crop ACGRs during ACGRs during ACGRs during1980-81 to1989-90 1990-91 to 1999-2000 2000-01 to 2003-2004

A* P Y A P Y A P Y

Rice 0.41 3.62 3.19 0.62 1.90 1.27 -2.63 -1.79 0.86

Wheat 0.46 3.57 3.10 1.67 3.81 2.11 0.44 -0.11 -0.54

Total food grains -0.23 2.85 2.74 -0.17 1.94 1.52 -0.18 0.23 0.41

Potato 2.90 5.17 2.20 3.72 5.19 1.41 2.20 0.50 -1.66

* A = Area; P = Production and Y = Yield (Source: DES, MoA, Govt. of India)

The annual compound growth rates (ACGRs) of potato for increase in area and production duringthe periods 1980-90; 1990-2000 and 2000-2004 were highest among the major food crops in India(Table 7).

Development of improved potato varieties, “Seed Plot Technique”, region specific package of practicesand initiation of national seed production programme and AICRP (Potato) were collectively responsiblefor improving potato productivity in the country (Fig. 12).

5.1.2. Potato Seed Production

The development of “Seed Plot Technique” opened up new avenues for potato seed production inIndian tropics and sub-tropics. In addition to Kufri and Fagu in Shimla hills, the CPRI could producebreeders’ seed in new areas i.e. at Modipuram (Uttar Pradesh), Jalandhar (Punjab), Patna (Bihar) andGwalior (Madhya Pradesh). This seed is supplied to the State Departments of Agriculture/Horticulture forfurther multiplication in three stages, viz., foundation-I, -II, and certified seed. Although we do not haveany data on production of certified seed by the State Departments of Horticulture/Agriculture, it is expectedthat the breeders’ seed would have been multiplied 216 times (6 times in each stage). In recent past CPRIhad been supplying 2000t breeders’ seed to these departments annually. If multiplied properly, this wouldproduce about 432,000t of certified seed. With the average prevailing price of imported potato seed (US$ 1120 of per t), the country saves about 484 million US $ or Rs. 17424 million annually on import ofpotato seed.

Fig 12. Impact of improved potato varieties and technologies on potato yield in India

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*= The figures indicate calendar months i.e. 1= January to 12= December

Fig. 13: Movement of potato seed in India before and after development of “Seed Plot Technique”

(Green and red arrows indicate healthy and unhealthy movement, respectively).

Prior to the development of “Seed Plot Technique”, the main sources of potato seed were high andmid hills, and north-eastern plains. Though the seed produced in high hills did meet the requirement ofhealth standards, it was not physiologically suitable for planting main crop in the plains because of dormancy.The seed produced in mid hills and north-eastern plains did not meet health requirements. With the adventof “Seed Plot Technique”, new seed producing areas in north Indian plains emerged which led to theestablishment of new seed channels in the country (Fig. 13).

5.2. Input/Output Assessment

The above impact was achieved through development of improved varieties and technologies byCPRI and AICRP (Potato) at a total expenditure of Rs. 196 crores during the period 1956 to 2005-2006.In the year 2004-2005, India produced 23.63 million tonnes of potatoes amounting to Rs. 9948 crores.The research investment in this year had been Rs. 19.70 crores, which is only 0.15 % of total value out putby the potato. It shows that the investment in potato research had been highly productive.

Potato also contributes handsomely to the national economy in agricultural sub-sector. Averagedover the period 2000-01 to 2002-03, although potato was cultivated on only 0.66% of total cropped areain India, it contributed over 1.74% to the aggregate value of output from agricultural sector. The monetary

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Table 8: Per cent area and contribution to value of agricultural output in India by rice, wheat andpotato.

Crop 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 Average Av. V/A ratio

A* V* A V A V A V

Rice 23.56 16.38 23.20 19.08 21.30 15.57 22.69 17.01 0.75

Wheat 13.56 8.18 13.66 8.08 13.30 8.11 13.51 8.12 0.60

Potato 0.64 1.31 0.64 2.08 0.71 1.83 0.66 1.74 2.64

* A = % of gross cropped area; V = % of total agricultural value output.

5.3. Shortcomings

The emphasis in potato research in India in the past had been on the development of high yieldingvarieties, standardization of packages of practices, increasing availability of disease-free seed and plantprotection mainly through chemicals for sustaining growth in potato production. However, certain areasreceived relatively less importance, considering the problems of the crop at that time. These need to beaddressed now in light of the changed national/international scenarios. Some of these areas are:

Potato improvement

For sustaining potato production and productivity in the country, continued efforts are needed todevelop varieties that are early bulking; field resistant to late blight; tolerant to viruses, high temperatureand other abiotic stresses, and suitable for processing. Now we are at the cross-roads where concertedefforts are needed to develop internationally acceptable varieties which produce medium-large oblongtubers having yellow flesh, uniform distribution of dry matter, less black spot bruising, lesser glycoalkaloids,longer shelf life and firm cooking quality. Growing demand for “baby potatoes” and “organically grownpotatoes” calls for development of varieties and technologies suited for these purposes. The ease withwhich processed potato products are exported, there is an urgent need to accelerate development ofdifferent types of varieties that can be grown in varied agro-climates of the country and processed intodifferent products particularly for French fries.

Potato production

Although, potato productivity in India is little better than world average, it is much lower than manycountries of Europe and America. Potato crop in these temperate countries is grown under long days andlong growing season of 160-180 days. In contrast, majority of the crop in India is grown in sub-tropicalplains under short days and short growing season of 90 days. Low productivity can also be attributed tothe fact that potato in India is produced by small and marginal farmers on small holdings. Levels of adoptionof improved varieties and technologies also vary from place to palce in the country. This has resulted inalarming productivity gaps in different states, which need to be narrowed through development of efficientfarming practices including intensive farming and use of modern techniques such as simulation modellingand expert systems. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and irrigation water has led to the development ofsick soils and environmental degradation in many parts of the country. This calls for immediate attention onintegrated use of water and nutrients in cropping systems. Potato is a high input high return crop, therefore,to make potato production globally competitive we have to reduce cost of potato production.

contributions by the principal cereal crops like rice and wheat were much less when the area occupied bythese crops was considered. The average ratios of per cent value output to the per cent cropped area forrice, wheat and potato during this period were 0.75, 0.60 and 2.64, respectively (Table 8).

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Potato protection

Late blight and viral degeneration of seed stocks are major problems of potato cultivation in India.These problems are further aggravated by incidence of wide range of other biotic stresses and emergenceof new pathogens and pests. The use of large quantities of pesticides has resulted in problems related toenvironment, residues, and resistance development in pests. Thus, there is a need to develop eco-friendlydisease/pest management practices to boost potato production without compromising on aforesaid issues.

Minimum commercial quality requirements fall under the WTO-TBT agreement. According to theInternational Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) under the WTO/SPS agreement, presence and/or absenceof the pathogens are major quality criteria. Therefore, to promote export of Indian potatoes, there is anurgent need to develop pest risk analysis for both export and import purpose.

Post, harvest technology

With increase in potato production, recurring gluts are common in the country. The prices crashdrastically during months of plenty leading to panic sale by the farmers resulting in heavy monetary losses.Lack of improvised on-farm storage structures, lack of elevated temperature storage facilities, high post-harvest losses, low domestic utilization and processing are the major problems of potato utilization in thecountry.

There is also need for developing novel potato products which are nationally/internationally acceptable,economically viable, healthy and environment friendly.

Planting material

Availability of pathogen-free planting material is most important in potato production. Low rate ofmultiplication necessitates several field multiplication of initial disease-free material, causing progressiveaccumulation of degenerative viral diseases in seed tubers. The seed related problems are further aggravateddue to limited availability of suitable seed producing areas (vector- and other objectionable diseases/insects-free areas). The most deficient states in this respect are NEH region, Maharashtra, Karnataka, W.Bengal, Orissa and Gujarat. Other issues of potato seed production that need attention are high productioncost, lower proportion of seed size tubers and inadequate efforts to integrate modern seed multiplicationtechniques in initial stages of breeders’ seed production. Besides, partnership needs to be developed withprivate sector and/or Government agencies for augmenting supply of quality seed especially to non-traditionalpotato producing areas.

Social science

For sustaining potato production and productivity in the country there is an urgent need to conductstudies on (i) estimation/assessment of price fluctuations, (ii) market intelligence, (iii) demand and productionof processed products in organized and unorganized sectors, (iv) use of modern techniques for areaestimation and (v) marketing system for domestic use and exports.

Low knowledge level of farmers and farm women with regard to potato technologies, low adoptionrate of many potato technologies, low knowledge level of state extension functionaries with regard to therecent research developments in potato are some of the factors responsible for low yields in many states.Efforts are, therefore, needed to technologically empower farmers and extension functionaries of theseareas.

Biotechnology

To harness maximum benefits of biotechnology and for its integration with potato improvement/productionactivities, there is a need to undertake focused activities on (i) developing robust molecular markers/QTLs

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for resistance, yield and quality attributes for initiating marker-assisted selection (MAS), (ii) developingantibiotic resistance marker-free genetic engineering protocol, (iii) standardizing efficient chloroplasttransformation vis-à-vis regeneration protocol, (iv) deciphering signal transduction pathways involvingcellular and molecular mechanisms involved in complex tuberization process and disease responses, and(v) cloning of desirable genes and promoters and their use for developing transgenic varieties with desiredattributes.

5.4. Lessons Learned, Suggestions and Options for the Future

Potato has made considerable progress in the country as a result of concerted research anddevelopment efforts during last 55 years. Nevertheless, there are problems that need urgent attention inview of the changed scenario.

• Only a part of the genetic variability available in the potato has been exploited for improving potatovarieties. Therefore, the strengthening of existing germplasm resources and their better utilization forincorporating a wider genetic base into our varieties are not just options but imperatives for the future.

• Although potato is basically a temperate crop, wide variability in adaptation to high temperatures isavailable in the gene pool. There is a need to develop varieties and agro-techniques that would enablethe spread of potatoes to non-traditional areas and seasons.

• For fitting in intensive cropping sequence including rice-potato-wheat, short duration and early bulkingvarieties with flexibility in planting and harvesting period need to be developed.

• Concerted efforts are also needed to develop internationally acceptable varieties producing medium-large oblong tubers with yellow flesh, uniform distribution of dry matter, less black spot bruising,lesser glycoalkaloids, longer shelf life and firm cooking quality. Growing demand for “baby potatoes”and “organically grown potatoes” also calls for development of varieties and technologies suited forthese.

• In the light of the increased demand for processing varieties, genotypes with high tuber dry matter,high starch and low reducing sugar accumulation during storage need to be developed.

• To reduce dependence on energy intensive refrigerated storage and to avoid sweetening and theconsequent deterioration of tuber quality under refrigeration, there is a need to standardize and refinestorage technology for storing tubers at 10-12 0C. Also varieties with good keeping quality andaccumulating less reducing sugars at low temperature can facilitate such type of storage.

• Low-input, sustainable and environment-friendly agro-techniques which reduce dependence onchemical fertilizers, toxic systemic pesticides, etc. need to be developed.

• Water scarcity is likely to be a serious problem in near future. Development of drought tolerantvarieties and site specific integrated water and nutrient management technologies would address thisproblem to a greater extent.

6. POTATO PRODUCTION AND UTILIZATION: GLOBAL SCENARIO

Due to its diversified uses in the developed countries as food, feed and raw material for producingstarch and alcohol, the potato is generally thought to be a crop confined to these nations. However, in thelast four and half decades, potato production is shifting from the developed countries to the developingones. The world output of potato has ranged between 270 and 321.06 million tonnes annually during theperiod 1961 to 2005. However, the pattern of production amongst the developed and the developingcountries has considerably changed over this period.

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Fig 15. Continent-wise distribution of potato area in 2005

6.1. Area

Today potato is grown in about 18.64 million ha in 150 countries. The share of developing countriesin world potato area has risen from 15.1% in 1961 to 51.0% in 2005. Share of developed countries hascorrespondingly decreased from 84.9% to 49.0%. This negative growth for area in developed countrieshas resulted in an overall decrease in the world potato area from 22.15 million ha to 18.64 million ha.(Fig. 14). The highest growth rate in area was recorded in Africa followed by Asia and Latin America. InAsia major increase in area was observed in China and India. India alone recorded an increase of about0.95 million ha under potato cultivation between 1961 and 2005. Averaged over the last five years (2001-2005), largest potato area in the world lies in China (4.56 million ha), followed by Russian Federation(3.17 million ha) and Ukraine (1.57 million ha) while India with 1.27 million ha is at 4th position.

Fig 14. Changing pattern of area under potato cultivation in different parts of the world(Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

Continent-wise distribution of potato area is shown in figure 15. In the year 2005, over three fourthof the potato area was in Europe and Asia, and rest in Africa, North Central America, South America andOceania. Potato area as percentage of total cropped area varied from 0.3% in USA and Brazil to 19.9%in the Netherlands. Thus, the Netherlands is the most specialised potato producing country in the worldfollowed by Belarus (11%), Poland (9%), Colombia (8%) and Peru (7%). Per capita potato area is highin Belarus (660 m2) and neighbouring countries of eastern Europe, where potato is the staple food and isalso used as feed. In contrast, low per capita potato area in major potato producing countries of Asia, viz.,China (27 m2) and India (14 m2) is due to use of potato merely as a vegetable.

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Fig 16. Potato productivity in different parts of the world during 1961 to 2005(Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

6.2. Productivity

According to the FAO data, average potato productivity in the world during the last five years(2001-2005) was 16.7 t/ha. It ranged from about 2 t/ha in Swaziland in Africa to 44.9 t/ha in New Zealandin Oceania. Rapid increase in potato productivity in developing countries during the ninteties significantlyreduced the productivity gap existed among developed and developing countries in 1961 (Fig. 16).

6.3. Production

In fact, during the last five decades, the concentration of potato production has been shifting fromdeveloped countries to developing countries. In 1961, potatoes in developing countries accounted for10.5% of the global output. Today, 47% of potatoes comes from doveleping countries in the world. Totalpotato production in the world during 1961 to 2005 increased from 270.5 million t to 321.06 million t.Although the productivity in the developed countries has increased from 12.88 t/ha to 18.6 t/ha during thisperiod, the production in these countries was reduced from 242.11 million t to 169.83 million t due toreduction in area has been from 18.8 million ha to 9.12 million ha. On the contrary, increase in area (from

Table 9: Continent-wise average potato productivity during last five years (2001-2005)

Continent Av. Productivity (t/ha) Productivity range

Africa 11.34 2 t/ha in Swaziland to 33.10 t/ha in South Africa

Asia 16.14 6.1 t/ha in Turkmenistan to 34.45 t/ha in Israel

Europe 16.40 8.34 t/ha in Republic of Moldova to 44.11 t/ha inBelgium

North Central America 36.38 3.50 t/ha in Montserrat to 41.84 t/ha in USA

Oceania 37.00 4.54 t/ha in Papua New Guinea to 44.89 t/ha inNew Zealand

South America 15.56 5.90 t/ha in Parggung to 27.84 t/ha in Argentina

(Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

Maximum productivity was recorded in North Central America (36.37 t/ha) and it was least in Africa(11.34 t/ha) (Table 9). In SAARC region, potato productivity was the highest in India (18.39 t/ha) followedby Pakistan (17.07 t/ha), Bangladesh (13.64 t/ha), Sri Lanka (13.48 t/ha), Nepal (11.07 t/ha) and Bhutan(8.4 t/ha).

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Table 10: Continent-wise average potato production (million t) during 2001-2005 and major potatoproducing countries

Continent Av. Annual Major potato producing countriesProduction

Africa 14.19 Egypt (2.2)*, Malawi (1.7), South Africa (1.7), Algeria (1.6) andMorocco (1.4)

Asia 126.73 China (69.2), India (23.3) and Turkey (4.9)

Europe 135.50 Russian Federation (35.4), Poland (14.7), Ukraine (18.5), Germany (11.6),Belarus (8.4), Netherlands (7.1) and UK (6.4)

North 27.6 USA (20.3), Canada (4.9) and Mexico (1.7)Central America

Oceania 18 Australia (1.3)

South America 14.0 Colombia (2.8), Peru (3.1), Argentina (2.2), Brazil (3.0) and Chile (1.2)

*Figures in parentheses indicate average annual potato production (million t)(Source; FAOSTAT, 2006)

3.35 million ha to 9.52 million ha) and productivity (from 8.49 t/ha to 15.9 t/ha) in the developing countriesresulted in an enhanced potato production from 28.44 million t to 151.24 million t (Fig. 17).

Fig 17. Increase in potato production in the world and developing countries during 1961 to 2005(Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

Averaged over 2001 to 2005, Europe and Asia alone accounted for 82% of total potato productionin the world (Table 10). In developing countries, Asia accounts for 83.8% of the 151.24 million tonnes ofpotatoes produced. The three largest producers in Asia are China (69.2 million tonnes), India (23.3 milliontonnes) and Turkey (4.9 million tonnes). China and India ranked first and third largest potato producingcountries in the world during this period. The developing countries are expanding potato production forseveral reasons (i) potato crop produces more edible energy and protein per unit time and area comparedto many other food crops; (ii) for the small and marginal farmers, potato fits well into multiple croppingsystems prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical agro-climatic conditions; (iii) the high profitability of potatoas a commercial crop has given a big boost to potato cultivation and (iv) rapid technological advancesmainly improved varieties, agro-techniques, irrigation, etc. in developing countries have stimulated expansionof potato production even in non-traditional environments.

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6.4. Potato Utilization

6.4.1. Domestic use

Potato is the staple food in Europe and North America and almost a vegetable in rest of the worldincluding India. The diversified uses of potato cover fresh food, processed products, animal feed, seed andraw material for industries (mainly starch). Potato utilisation patterns in major potato producing regions ofthe world are given in Table 11.

In developing countries about 70% potatoes are consumed as fresh food i.e. vegetable, 10% as feed,6.4% as seed, 4.6% for processing and 9% goes as waste. Per capita supply of potatoes in these countries(20.9 kg/year) is much lesser than that of developed countries (74.3 kg/year). In developed world morepotatoes are used for seed, animal feed, processing and other industrial uses. Hance wastage is less.Therefore, with increase in potato production there is a need for its diversified utilization particularly indeveloping countries to avoid glut like situations and reduce wastage.

In recent years the demand for processed potato products in international market has risen at a fastpace due to increased urbanization, rise in per capita income, increase in number of working women andexpanding tourism. In most of the developing countries, home-scale processing of potato is common.However, in comparison to developed countries, the progress in potato processing under organized sectoris not much visible in these countries.

Table 11: Potato utilisation patterns and per capita supply in major potato producing regions in2003

Country Utilization of potato (%) for Per capita supply

Food Feed Seed Processing Waste Other* (kg/yr)

Africa 77.2 2.1 9.7 Nil 10.2 0.8 11.4Asia 69.0 11.0 5.9 5.5 8.1 0.5 23.2Europe 46.0 22.7 16.6 4.9 6.6 3.2 93.6N. C. America NA 0.85 5.5 NA 11.3 5.8 46.9Oceania 78.5 4.2 10.0 5.2 2.0 0.1 45.6S. America 72.5 3.2 10.5 0.6 12.4 0.8 29.8Developed countries 52.3 18.5 14.6 4.1 7.1 3.4 74.3Developing countries 69.7 9.6 6.4 4.6 9.1 0.6 20.9World 59.8 14.7 11.0 4.3 8.0 2.2 32.5

* Other industrial uses (Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

6.4.2. Export

Export of an agricultural commodity is determined by four factors i.e. export surplus, quality productionbased on phyto-sanitary standards, comparative economic advantage, infrastructural support and country’sexport policy. Only 2 to 3% of 321 million tonnes of world potato production is traded internationally.Import and export of fresh potatoes in and from developed countries account for 83 and 86% of totalworld trade, respectively, with North-Central America and Oceania being net exporters (Table 12). Twentyone countries of the world account for world’s 77% fresh potato imports and 86% exports. Major netimporters of fresh potatoes in the world are Algeria, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Russian Federation, Spain, SriLanka, UK, USA and Uzbekistan. While major net exporters are Belarus, Belgium-Luxembourg, Canada,Cyprus, Egypt, France, Germany and Turkey. Although India contributes 7.55 % to the total world potatoproduction, its share (0.3%) in world’s fresh potato export is insignificant.

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Table 13: Region-wise import and export of frozen potatoes in the world

Region Potato Import Export Trade balanceproduction Quantity % Share of total Quantity % Share of total (‘000 t)(E-I)

(‘000 t) (‘000 t)(I) world imports (‘000 t)(E) world exports

Africa 10618.52 10.21 0.40 9.53 0.37 -0.68

Asia 110840.93 466.43 18.35 28.33 1.09 -438.10

Europe 140621.96 1463.06 57.57 1550.77 59.74 +87.71

North-Central 27986.41 478.04 18.81 944.61 36.39 +466.57America

Oceania 1779.69 21.18 0.83 22.83 0.88 +1.65

South America 13837.33 102.33 4.03 39.69 1.53 -62.64

Developed 177809.90 2152.50 84.70 2519.46 97.06 +366.96countries

World 305758.20 2541.25 100.00 2595.77 100.00 +54.52

Five year average for the period 2000-2004 (Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

Table 12: Region-wise import and export of fresh potatoes in the world

Region Potato Import Export Trade balanceproduction Quantity % Share of total Quantity % Share of total (‘000 t)(E-I)

(‘000 t) (‘000 t)(I) world imports (‘000 t)(E) world exports

Africa 10618.52 380.48 4.89 331.60 4.38 -48.88

Asia 110840.93 902.42 11.61 741.24 9.80 -161.18

Europe 140621.96 5481.82 70.50 5482.28 72.45 +0.46

N. C. America 27986.41 841.25 10.82 872.53 11.53 +31.28

Oceania 1779.69 22.97 0.29 62.24 0.82 +39.27

South America 13837.33 146.71 1.89 77.24 1.02 -69.47

Developed 177809.90 6416.80 82.52 6487.45 85.73 +70.65Countries

World 305758.20 7775.66 100.00 7567.12 100.00 -208.54

Five year average for the period 2000-2004; Five year average for the period 2000-2004(Source: FAOSTAT, 2006)

Developed countries are also major players in import and export of frozen potatoes and account for83 and 86% of total world trade, respectively, with Europe, North-Central America, Oceania and Africabeing net exporters (Table 13). Only twenty countries account for world’s 86% frozen potato import and99% exports. Major net importers of frozen potatoes in the world are USA, UK, France, Japan andGermany, while Netherlands, Canada and Belgium are net exporters.

The export share of developing countries for fresh potatoes (14.3%) and frozen potatoes (2.9%) isnot commensurate with their contribution to world potato production (47%). Potato export from developingcountries faces several constraints. For promotion of export of fresh potatoes and processed potatoproducts from these countries, concrete measures need to be undertaken. Surveys of potential exportmarkets and strengthening of suitable infrastructure for export like cold storage, surface transportation andshipping facilities are some of the essential components for successful exports. The database on potatoexports, price, grade standards, phyto-sanitary standards, processing standards, consumer preferences,seed standards, etc. need to be prepared for all importing countries so that all information is readilyavailable to the exporters and manufacturers.

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7. POTATO PRODUCTION AND UTILIZATION: INDIAN SCENARIO

7.1. Area, Production and Productivity

The impact of extensive potato research and development in the country during last fifty six years hadbeen phenomenal in all aspects of potato production (Table 14). Averaged over last six years (1999-2000to 2004-05), the country has produced 23.52 million tonnes of potatoes from an area of 1.283 millionhectares with an average yield of 18.36 t/ha (Tables 14 & 15). Potato productivity in India is much lowerthan many countries of the Europe and America as crop in these temperate countries is grown under longdays and long growing season of 160-180 days (Table 16). In contrast, more than 90 percent of the cropin India is grown in sub-tropical plains under short days and short growing season of 90 days. If potatoproductivity is expressed in terms of per unit area and time, India is likely to rank 1st for potato productivityin the world.

Table 14: Area, production and productivity of potato from 1949 to 2005 in India

Period Av. area (million ha) Av. production (million tonnes) Av. productivity(t/ha)

1949-50 to 1953-54 0.249 1.772 7.151954-55 to 1958-59 0.300 1.938 6.501959-60 to 1963-64 0.305 2.772 7.181964-65 to 1968-69 0.480 4.034 8.381969-70 to 1973-74 0.504 4.572 9.091974-75 to 1978-79 0.662 7.796 11.741979-80 to 1983-84 0.742 10.004 13.451984-85 to 1988-89 0.868 12.928 14.861989-90 to 1993-94 1.002 15.798 15.791994-95 to 1998-99 1.192 20.344 17.031999-00 to 2004-05 1.283 23.517 18.357

(Source: Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, New Delhi)

Table 15: Area, production and yield of potato in major potato producing states of India 2004-05

State Area (‘000 ha) Production (‘000 tonnes) Yield (t/ha)

Andhra Pradesh 2.4 (0.19) 15.90 (0.07) 6.63

Arunachal Pradesh 4.5 (0.36) 31.70 (0.14) 7.04

Assam 78.7 (6.24) 629.20 (2.71) 7.99

Bihar 145.5 (11.54) 1416.50 (6.10) 9.74

Chhatisgarh** 9.1 (0.72) 71.00 (0.31) 7.80

Gujrat 33.6 (2.66) 766.00 (3.30) 22.80

Haryana 15.5 (1.23) 294.50 (1.27) 19.0

Himachal Pradesh 12.5 (0.99) 147.70 (0.64) 11.82

Jammu & Kashmir 1.9 (0.15) 21.20 (0.09) 11.16

Karnataka 42.9 (3.40) 363.00 (1.56) 8.46

Madhya Pradesh 33.4 (2.65) 409.70 (1.76) 12.27

Contd......

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State Area (‘000 ha) Production (‘000 tonnes) Yield (t/ha)

Maharashtra 16.5 (1.31) 75.20 (0.32) 4.56

Manipur 2.9 (0.23) 16.00 (0.07) 5.52

Meghalaya 18.8 (1.49) 158.60 (0.68) 8.44

Mizoram 0.4 (0.03) 2.50 (0.01) 6.25

Nagaland 4.5 (0.36) 39.10 (0.17) 8.69

Orissa 7.6 (0.60) 78.20 (0.34) 10.29

Punjab 65.7 (5.21) 1329.20 (5.72) 20.23

Rajasthan 2.8 (0.22) 27.70 (0.12) 9.89

Sikkim 6.3 (0.50) 25.50 (0.11) 4.05

Tamil Nadu 4.9 (0.39) 90.80 (0.39) 18.53

Tripura 5.5 (0.44) 102.30 (0.44) 18.60

Uttar Ptradesh 410.5 (32.56) 9409.90 (40.51) 22.92

Uttaranchal** 16.9 (1.34) 195.90 (0.84) 11.59

West Bengal 315.9 (25.05) 7499.30 (32.28) 23.74

Delhi 1.7 (0.13) 14.60 (0.06) 8.59

All India 1260.9 (100.0) 23231.20 (100.00) 18.42

** Data for last two years, Figures in parenthesis are percent of the total.(Source: Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, New Delhi.)

Table 16: Average area, yield and production in 15 major potato producing countries of the world(Five-year average 2001-2005)

Country Area(million ha) Yield (t/ha) Production (million t)

Belarus 0.6898 11.44 7.88 (2.58) a

Canada 0.1562 28.04 4.38 (1.43)

China 4.2467 14.24 60.22 (19.70)

France 0.1671 38.99 6.52 (2.13)

Germany 0.2987 40.19 12.01 (3.93)

India 1.2915 17.84 23.09 (7.55)Islamic Rep. of Iran 0.1600 20.98 3.36 (1.10)

Japan 0.0989 30.77 3.05 ((1.00)

Netherlands 0.1816 41.61 7.56 (2.47)

Poland 1.2628 17.62 22.26 (7.28)

Russian Federation 3.2721 10.28 33.66 (11.01)

Turkey 0.2098 25.59 5.37 (1.76)

Ukraine 1.5735 9.92 15.63 (5.11)

United Kingdom 0.1685 40.31 6.79 (2.22)

USA 0.5380 40.04 21.54 (7.04)

World 19.2494 15.88 305.76 (100)

(Source: FAOSTAT, 2006), Figures in parenthesis are percent of the total.

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Fig 18. Scenario of potato production and export from India during 2000-2001 to 2002-2003. (a) India’s share in

global potato production and export (b) Export of table potatoes (total = 91308 t to 29 countries) (c) Export of

seed potatoes (total = 12525 t to 23 countries) (d) Export of frozen potatoes (total = 26383 t to 19 countries) (e)

Export of other potato products (total = 546 t to 18 countries).(Sources: FAO Database and Monthly Statistics of the Foreign Trade of India. Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence

and Statistics, Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of India)

7.2. Utilization

7.2.1. Domestic use

In India, in year 2003 about 79.6% potatoes were consumed as fresh food in the form of vegetable,9.7% as seed, less than 1% were processed, another less than 1% were exported and about 18.3% goesas waste. (FAOSTAT, 2006)

7.2.2. Export

On export front, India’s performance has not been commensurate with its global position in potatoproduction. Though India contributes 7.36% to global potato production, its share in world fresh potatoexports is 0.75% and that of frozen potatoes it is 0.08%. In our own continent, India contributes 21% tototal potato production but its export share in Asian market is only 2% (Fig. 18). European countries stilldominate potato trade even in this part of the world.

7.2.3. Export of Table Potatoes from India

Averaged over the last three years (2001-2003) Asian countries impored about nine hundred thousandtonnes of table potatoes annually. India’s average annual export of about eighteen thousand tonnes toAsian countries during this period is hardly 2%. India exported table potatoes to 29 countries during lastthree years. Sri Lanka and Nepal accounted for 41% and 48% of total fresh potato export from India,respectively. The other important countries that import table potatoes from India are UAE (4.42%) andMauritius (3.44%). The export of fresh potatoes from India had been marginal and inconsistent. But thereis an export on regular basis to Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka and UAE.

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7.2.4. Export of Seed Potatoes from India

In the last three years (2001-2003) India exported 3891 tonnes of potato seed to 23 countries. Nepal andSri Lanka alone accounted for 92.5% of total seed export from India. The other regular seed importingcountries from India are UAE (4.2%), USA (1%), Singapore (0.8%) and Maldives (0.3%). However,export of seed potatoes from India was not only marginal but inconsistent.

7.2.5. Export of Processed Potato Products from India

Although village level potato processing for home consumption is common in India, large scale processingin organized sector for domestic use and export is relatively a new activity in the country. However, in thelast few years, processed potato products particularly chips are substantially available in the country. Withan increasing demand of such products in urban areas, the potato processing industry in the country hasscaled up production. Since the international market for various processed products particularly frozenpotatoes is growing rapidly, there is also a need for orienting Indian industries to undertake production andexport of these products. The quantity of processed potato products being exported from India is relativelysmall. About 92% of frozen potato export from India is to Sri Lanka (60.4%), Mauritius (18.0%) andUAE (13.4%). In case of potato chips, five countries account for 86% of the exports from India. Thesecountries are Oman (22.4%), Sri Lanka (19.7%), UAE (16.9%), USA (16.9%) and Maldives (10.0%).Export volume of other processed products from India is low. Annually, India exports about 109 tonnes ofother processed potato products mainly to Sri Lanka (63.6%) and USA (12.7%).

However, during last two years export of fresh potatoes, potato seed and processed potato productsfrom India is on increase.

8. SWOT ANALYSIS

8.1. Strengths

8.1.1. Strengths of Potato Crop

Poverty and large population are persistent problems in India. These problems besides havingclose relationship with food insecurity are also related to poor health and malnutrition. Food security inIndia is, therefore, an important national priority. Lester Brown and Hal Kene in their book titled “FullHouse: Reassessing the Earth’s Carrying Capacity” calculated that, if population growth is not arrested,China and India are likely to face serious food shortages by 2030. These shortages would be 216million tonnes for China and 45 million tonnes for India. The picture on agricultural front is also notencouraging. Increase in population, urbanization and man-made creation of wastelands is shrinkingarable land and water resources. The present per capita available land in India is only about 0.15 ha.During last one decade, the major food crops are reaching their practical limits of production and thereis very slow genetic improvement in yield levels of these crops. The situation has been further aggravatedby declining input–use efficiency particularly for chemical fertilizers, emergence of resistant pests anddiseases and declining output-input ratio. All these factors have resulted in making farming less and lessremunerative for resource poor farmers of the country.

A short duration crop like potato, which produces more dry matter, edible energy and edible proteinper unit land and time compared to other major crops such as wheat, rice and maize (Fig. 19) is a mostpotential crop for fighting hunger and malnutrition. It is also nutritionally superior (Table 17). Short duration,high yield and wide flexibility in planting and harvesting time are potato’s valuable traits that help in adjustingthis crop in most of the intensive-cropping systems without putting much pressure on scarce resourcessuch as land, water, fertilizers, etc. It also generates larger returns per unit land and time in comparison to

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Fig 19. Potato produces more dry matter, edible energy and protein per unit area

and time than other important food crops.(Source: Gopalan, C, BV Ramashashtri and SC Balsubramanian. 1972. Nutritive Value of Indian Foods. National

Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, India)

other major crops. The average ratio of percent value output to the percent cropped area for potato,wheat, and paddy during the period 2000-01 to 2002-03 were 2.64:1, 0.64:1, and 0.75:1, respectively.Besides the crop also has great potential for employment generation during crop season and post harvesthandling.

8.1.2. Strengths of Potato Research and Development

• Strong research infrastructure and expert manpower in major potato growing zones of the country.

• Establishment of a national disease-free seed production programme. India is the only country inSouth Asia that has such a seed production programme. The success of potato seed production in thecountry is evident from (i) elimination of country’s dependence on imported seed and (ii) the possibilityof potato seed production becoming a financially self-sustaining activity. The latter is backed bythe achievements made by CPRI under Revolving Fund Scheme (RFS) on potato seed production(Fig. 20).

• Indigenous development of 42 high yielding potato varieties suitable for different agro-climaticconditions of the country. Some of these varieties also possess resistances to various biotic andabiotic stresses.

• Availability of short duration varieties and potato-based intensive cropping technologies for fittingpotato crop into intensive cropping systems. These have opened the possibilities for vertical increasein area under potato without affecting area under other crops and improvement in production per unitarea and time.

• The high employment generation potential of potato production. Conventional potato cultivation needsabout 250 man-days per hectare. The adoption of TPS-based potato cultivation will further enhancerural development potential. The post-harvest operations are also highly labour intensive.

• The large cold storage capacity of nearly 19.59 million tonnes (2005) is also responsible for rapidgrowth of the potato in the country.

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Table 17: Nutritive values of some important food crops (per 100 g edible portion)

Nutrients Potato Wheat Rice Maize Soybean

Edible portion (%) 85.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

Moisture (g) 74.70 12.80 13.70 14.90 8.10

Protein (g) 1.60 11.80 6.80 11.10 43.20

Fat (g) 0.10 1.50 0.50 3.60 19.50

Minerals (g) 0.60 1.50 0.60 1.50 4.60

Fibre (g) 0.40 1.20 0.20 2.70 3.70

Carbohydrates (g) 22.60 71.20 78.20 66.20 20.90

Energy (kcal) 97.00 346.00 345.00 342.00 432.00

Calcium (mg) 10.00 41.00 10.00 10.00 240.00

Phosphorus (mg) 40.00 306.00 160.00 348.00 690.00

Iron (mg) 0.70 4.90 3.10 2.00 11.50

Carotene (mg) 24.00 64.00 0.00 90.00 426.00

Thiamine (mg) 0.10 0.45 0.06 0.42 0.73

Riboflavin (mg) 0.01 0.17 0.06 0.10 0.39

Niacin (mg) 1.20 5.50 1.90 1.80 3.20

Vitamin C (mg) 17.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 -

(Source: Gopalan, C, BV Ramashashtri and SC Balsubramanian. 1972. Nutritive Value of Indian Foods.National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, India)

8.2. Weaknesses

The weaknesses of potato crop and research & development are:

• Semi-perishability: Semi-perishability of potatoes and harvesting of about 90% potatoes in thecountry at the beginning of summers poses major problem in post harvest management.

• Sustainability: The potato is a high input requiring crop both during the crop season as well as afterthe harvest. Besides it has a high impact on the environment. Therefore, sustainable technologiesneed to be developed for both the pre-harvest and the post-harvest operations.

• Narrow genetic base: The potato is an introduced crop in India. Indian potato varieties, therefore,have a narrow genetic base. The full genetic variability of the crop is available in the Andean region ofSouth America. The present germplasm collection at CPRI is modest and import of additionalgermplasm has become difficult now-a-days.

• Inadequate availability of processing varieties: A few of the present day varieties are suitablefor processing mainly for chip making. With sudden increase in the demand for potatoes for diversifieduse, the necessity for developing varieties with high processing quality is being acutely felt.

• Inadequate availability of varieties for international trading. To promote the export of potatofrom the country, there is need to develop varieties having combination of export qualities, viz.,oblong tubers with yellow flesh, long shelf life without black spot bruishing, low glycoalkaloids contentand firm cooking quality.

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Fig 20. Physical and financial performance of RFS on potato seed production during the period

1991 to 2005. The scheme was started with Rs. 40 Lakhs.

• Inadequate planting material: Although a sufficient quantity of basic seed is produced by theCPRI, the availability of certified seed to the farmers is unsatisfactory in many parts of the countrydue to non-judicious multiplication and distribution of the basic seed.

• High cost of production: Because of the high price of seed and other inputs the cost of productionis high. This results in high cost of raw material for the processing industry. Also the domestic pricesof potato are relatively high compared with international prices, making the export of potatoes andpotato-based products competitive.

• High water requirement: One of the weaknesses of this crop is its high water requirement (300-500 mm of water per season). Water scarcity could become a problem in the years to come.

• Inadequate diffusion of improved production technologies: There is large variation in averageyields in different parts of the country (Please see Table 15), sometimes within a region with similaragro-climates. For example, Bihar, which has 0.1455 million ha (11.5% of the total area in thecountry) under potato lies between UP (average yield 22.9 t/ha) and West Bengal (average yield23.7 t/ha), but it has an average yield of only 9.7 t/ha.

Potato production in the country faces major weaknesses on account of marketing, storage, utilizationand export. With increase in potato production, recurring gluts are common in the country. The pricescrash drastically during months of plenty leading to panic sale by the farmers resulting in heavy monetarylosses. Lack of proper marketing avenues, insufficient/expensive cold storage facilities and low domesticutilization are some of the other problems. The great potential for exporting seed, table potatoes andprocessed products has hardly been explored. In the true sense our country is not yet prepared to absorbexcess potato production. The issues that need urgent attention of the planners are; development of policies

36

for promoting utilization, storage, marketing, processing and export, contract/co-operative farming, promotionof processing both at cottage and organized sector levels, development of export infrastructure andreorientation of exim policies including export subsidies.

Utilization: In India about 16% potatoes go as waste. Although per capita potato availability in India isabout 24 kg, its consumption (16 kg/year) is much less than other parts of the world (136 kg/year inPoland) and there is ample scope for increasing consumption. In India potatoes are neither used as animalfeed nor as industrial raw material for production of starch and alcohol.

Storage: Potatoes can not be stored under ordinary conditions particularly in sub-tropical plains wherehigh temperatures and dry weather prevails soon after its harvest. Therefore, to sustain increased potatoproduction, proper storage facilities are essential. Earlier, some non-refrigerated storage structures weredeveloped which included sandpits, diffused light storage rooms, thatched mud wall rooms, etc. Thesestructures are suitable to hold potatoes upto 3-4 months. Obviously these structures can not be used forstorage of table, processing and seed potatoes for a longer period of 8-10 months.

The growth of cold storage industry has given a big boost to potato cultivation in India by facilitatingavailability of potato seed tubers in right physiological stage for planting and also ensured freedom fromsome diseases and pests that do not survive at low temperatures. However, with the progressive increasein production, the present cold storage capacity (19.6 million t in 2005) is not adequate. Most of the coldstores are located near big towns and markets, and are unevenly distributed in different parts of thecountry.

Storage of table and processing potatoes at 3-40C in cold stores accumulate reducing sugars andhence such tubers are not fit for processing. Therefore, concerted efforts are needed to create facilities forstoring potatoes at 10-120C at which sugar accumulation is reduced. But at this temperature the tubersneed CIPC treatment to prevent sprouting. Other possibilities are (i) to develop processing varieties thatdo not accumulate reducing sugars and can be stored for longer periods at 10-120C without sproutsuppressant treatment, and (ii) to develop “Cold Chipper Varieties” accumulating less reducing sugars atlow temperatures that can be used for processing after a short period of reconditioning at 15-180C.

Marketing: The problems of potato marketing are not as simple as many other field crops. Potato is asemi-perishable and bulky commodity with high water content. Therefore, it requires a suitable and well-knit infrastructure for appropriate storage and transport throughout the country.

Most of the potato trade in India is done through commission agents or local shopkeepers. In someareas, trading of potatoes through co-operatives has also been initiated. The Government or the localbodies have very little or no control over the business or the trading methods, resulting in several deficienciesand malpractices in the business.

Wholesale and retail prices of potato vary from time to time, during the year, and from year to yeardepending upon the supply and demand. Generally, the prices are high at the beginning of the harvest anddecline gradually as the supplies increase. Cold storage of potatoes during surplus months has helpedmoderate the price fluctuations in the country, though it has not fully eliminated them. Market intelligencecoupled with quick movement of potatoes from surplus to deficient areas would further moderate theprices.

Processing: Diversion of a part of the produce for processing, industrial use and export is expected toresolve most of the post harvest handling and marketing problems associated with this semi-perishablecrop.

In recent years the demand for processed potato products in India and international market has risenat a fast pace due to increased urbanization, rise in per capita income, increase in number of working

37

women and expanding tourism. In India, home-scale processing of potato to produce chips, papads,dehydrated cubes, shreds, etc. is common in all potato growing areas. However, there was no visibleprogress in potato processing under organized sector in the country until 1990. During the last decadegrowth of organized potato processing became apparent due to the incentives given by the Government.

On processing front, as compared to the USA (60%) and the Netherlands (47%), less than 3% oftotal potato production in the country is processed.

Export: On export front India’s performance had not been commensurate with its global position in potatoproduction. Though India contributes 7.55% to global potato production its share in world fresh potatoexports is 0.3% and that for frozen potatoes it is 0.2%. In our own continent, India contributes 21% tototal potato production but its export share in Asian market had been only 2% during the last five years.The main reasons for dismal export of Indian potatoes had been lack of planned and targeted exportpolicy, lack of efforts to identify assured markets, and inconsistency in quality of the produce.

8.3. Opportunities

According to the estimates published by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)and International Potato Centre (CIP), India is likely to have the highest growth rates in production andproductivity of potatoes during 1993-2020. During the same period worldwide demand of potatoes isexpected to increase by 40%. This scenario calls for concerted efforts to capture global market by producinginternational quality potatoes and processed products. Potato production and utilization pattern in theworld including India is changing very fast. There is much demand for processed products; gourmet qualitybaby potatoes; medium-large sized tubers with yellow flesh and firm cooking quality as well as organicallygrown potatoes. These changes harbour many opportunities and challenges. If we want to be nationallycomfortable and globally competitive, we have to keep pace and adapt to the new emerging trends inpotato production and utilization.

High productivity and high food value: Potato is highly productive and highly nutritious food. Apartfrom providing carbohydrates, proteins, vitamin C and a number of vitamins of the B group, it provideshigh quality dietary fibre. The protein is comparable in quality to egg and milk proteins and is superior tocereal and other vegetable proteins. It also produces more protein than all the other major food crops perunit area and time. For instance, the potato produces 3 kg of protein/ha/day as compared to only 2.5 kg/ha/day in wheat, 1.2 kg/ha/day in maize and 1 kg/ha/day in rice (Table17). Contrary to popular beliefs it isa low calorie food with hardly any fat. Thus, the potato provides a unique opportunity to improve thequantity and quality of food availability in the country.

Agronomic flexibility: The potato is a crop that can be grown from the sea level to the snow line. It alsohas a wide flexibility in its planting and harvest time. It, therefore, can fit well in various intensive croppingsystems including inter-cropping systems. There is thus a great opportunity to increase area and productionof the potato without decreasing the area under other crops.

Versatility in processing: The potato is the most widely processed food. There are many ways ofprocessing it into delicious and nutritious food items either by itself or in combination with other products.With increasing incomes, and greater urbanization, there will be a demand for processed fast foods and thepotato can play major role in the production of such processed food.

Export of seed and table potatoes: India has many natural advantages in potato production that can beaggressively utilized for exporting table and seed potatoes. These advantages are:

(a) In European countries fresh potatoes are available only after September whereas, about 90% freshpotatoes in India are harvested during January to March and potato harvesting continues in one part

38

or the other in the country through out the year. The fact that India can supply fresh potatoes roundthe year at comparatively low price (due to short crop duration and cheap labour) needs to beaggressively considered for tapping international markets.

(b) India is the only country in South Asia having its own seed production programme. The seed of Indianpotato varieties is more suitable for growing in the adjoining Asian countries because; (i) Indianpotato varieties, bred to suit sub-tropical climate can perform better in neighbouring countries thanthe varieties bred to suit temperate agro-climate of Europe, (ii) potato seed harvested in January/February in India is in perfect physiological state for planting in Asian countries in October/November(European seed harvested in September is dormant), (iii) due to short crop duration, cheap labourand lower transportation costs, price of seed produced in India is also far lower as compared withthe potatoes produced in Europe, and (iv) the potato production in India is free from prohibiteddiseases like potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd), potato virus T (PVT), Andean potato latent virus(APLV), tobacco ring spot virus (TRSV), Arracacha virus-B (AVB), potato yellowing virus (PYV),Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV), silver scurf, ring rot, gangrene, nematodes, etc.

8.4. Threats (Challenges)

Under scarcity of resources, potato production can only be increased by enhancing productivity perunit area and time. The challenge is to tailor the crop in such a way that it gives high yield and at the sametime fit into crop rotations and/or mixed cropping systems of the respective regions. Other challenges areincidence of wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses, heavy use of chemical fertilizers and lower scale ofproduction. The use of large quantities of pesticides and fertilizers has resulted in environmental problems.This concern attaches priorities to develop eco-friendly disease/pest management practices and low inputproduction technologies so that potato production can be increased in an environmentally, economicallyand socially sustainable manner. To attain a globally competitive scale of production we have to think ofcontract/cooperative farming.

With globalization there is rapid spread of varieties and technologies across the national boundaries.Strict quarantine is a must for preventing entry of diseases like the Andean Potato viruses, potato spindletuber viroid (PSTVd), potato virus T. Clavobacterium, Colorado beetle, etc. that could have a devastatingeffect if allowed to get through. The policy option of allowing bulk imports of planting material (with onlysmall samples being subjected to post-entry quarantine procedures) is to be strongly discouraged. Theinfrastructural facilities for post-entry quarantine have to be strengthened. Presently only CPRI has theexpertise to prevent the entry of exotic pests and diseases into the country, and any attempt to bypass theCPRI in this regard could be potentially disastrous.

Indiscriminate import/export of planting material can bring a bad name to the country. It has beenobserved that both tuber material as well as true potato seeds are being imported/exported in/out of thecountry by some private parties without ensuring proper quality and proper phytosanitary certificates.Some of the tuber material exported as ware potato is being utilized by the importing countries as seed. Allthis is likely to adversely affect the reputation of the country in long run.

9. PERSPECTIVE

The IFPRI and CIP have calculated potato growth rates in India using IMPACT model on the baseyear 1993 and made projections for baseline as well as high demand and production growth for the year2020. With the same growth rate, projections for the year 2025 is given in Table 18. Based on currentACGRs for potato and population in India, it is envisaged that by 2025 we can achieve high demand andproduction growth projections i.e. 1.74 million ha area, 51.85 million t production and 28.95 t/ha productivity.

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Perspective for area and productivity

Most of the increase in area is expected to arise from the adoption of new cropping systems and landuse patterns, involving inter-cropping, relay cropping and multiple cropping. There is also some possibilityof expanding potato production to non-traditional areas through the development of temperature tolerantcultivars. High temperature tolerance will also increase the flexibility in planting dates and make it possibleto fit potato into even more diverse cropping systems.

The average yield of 28.95 t/ha projected for 2025 is for a 90 days crop. This means we have toproduce 322 kg/ha/day. According to our estimates, the production of potatoes in the northern plains ofIndia is presently about 224 kg/ha/day. Vigorous efforts will, therefore, have to be made both in potatoresearch and development to realize these projections.

Planting material

The CPRI presently has the responsibility of producing basic seed for the entire country. At present itproduces about 2,600 t of basic seed annually, which is sufficient for the requirement of the country ifproperly multiplied. The area under potato is expected to go up to 1.6 million ha by the year 2020. This willresult in increased requirement of basic seed. Certain changes are being made in the basic seed productiontechnology to meet this increased demand. These include the integration of in vitro rapid multiplicationtechniques into the seed production programme. This will result in increased efficiency of seed productionand a reduction of 1-2 stages of field multiplication. The use of advanced methods of disease detection isexpected to significantly improve the quality of the seed produced. Apart from this, the quantity of disease-free seed produced will have to be increased, perhaps by involving SAUs, private sector, progressivefarmers, cooperatives, etc. located in the seed production belt and by working out state-wise and year-wise rolling plan for seed production in the country.

A part of the future seed requirement can possibly be met by the use of true potato seed (TPS) if thistechnology is refined and made farmer friendly.

Sustainability

The potato is a high input requiring crop, particularly with regard to water, chemical fertilizers, andplant protection chemicals. Long term sustainability will depend on the development of genotypes that areefficient in the uptake and utilization of nutrients and have inbuilt resistance to pathogens and pests. Sustainablealternatives like bio-fertilizers including recycling of organic crop residues, bio-control of pathogens andpests are being actively pursued. Genetic manipulation of potato for reduced requirement of water, nutrientsand plant protection chemicals will have to be actively looked into.

Table 18: Projections for area, production and productivity

Particulars Baseline projection High demand andproduction growth

Area (million ha) 1.49 (1.19)* 1.6 (1.71)

Production (million t) 43.45 (3.10) 43.3 (3.67)

Yield (t/ha) 28.44 (1.89) 26.3 (1.94)

Consumption/Demand (million t) 43.20(3.09) 44.6 (3.80)

* Figures in parentheses indicate growth rates(Source: Scott JG, Rosegrant MW and Ringler C. 2000. Roots and tubers for the 21st century: Trends, projections, and policy options.IFPRI, Washington DC, USA and CIP, Lima, Peru. 64 p)

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Processing and value addition

It is expected that the present low level of processing (less than 3% of the total production as comparedto 60% in USA) will increase sustainability in the near future. The absence of major diseases or insect pestsin the plains make our potatoes suitable for processing. Moreover, some of our varieties have the essentialrequirements of processing potatoes, i.e. good shape, relatively high dry matter, etc. However, the ongoingbreeding effort may result in the development of more processing varieties that are internationally competitive.The institute has already identified promising advanced lines, particularly with regard to high dry matter,low reducing sugars, better chipping and French fry quality. Big tubers with good keeping quality at astorage temperature of about 10 0C are additional breeding objectives for processing potatoes. Furthermore,fresh potatoes are available in India around the year except for 2-3 months.

Since all refrigerated stores in India are operated at a temperature of 2-4 0C, a temperature rangethat is unsuitable for processing and table potatoes, new viable storage technology involving storage athigher temperature (10-12 0C) needs to be standardized/refined.

Apart from developing varieties suited for traditional forms of processing, both varieties and technologiesfor the production of convenience foods with long shelf life, like reconstitutable dehydrated cubes are alsovery desirable. Refinement is also needed in the agro-techniques for producing potatoes with superiorprocessing qualities.

There are some very specialized applications like, textile sizing, etc. in which potato starch may havesome special strengths, however, this type of value addition (production of industrially useful products) isnot likely to become a major factor in potato utilization. In a country with a massive population to feed,food related use of the potato should be encouraged. However, genetic modification of starch biosynthesisin potato will have promising industrial applications in near future.

Export

India has the potential of becoming a major exporter of both ware and seed potatoes. More than80% of the crop is grown in the winter when there is no potato crop in the temperate countries. During1967-2004 we have exported potatoes varying in quantities from 593 to 67159 t annually (value$ 67,000 to 73,22,000). The overall growth rate for export during this period had been 7.38% interms of tonnage and 8.04% in terms of value. If a long-term policy is formulated, there is no reasonwhy India should not emerge as a major exporter of potatoes by the year 2025. There is a greatpotential for exporting processed potatoes to Middle East and neighbouring countries at competitiveprices.

10. RESEARCH ISSUES AND STRATEGIES

Strengthening of social science activities

This is high time to give a social face to our research programmes. In addition to technologydissemination, the most important activity of the Division of Social Sciences has to be to provide valuablefeedback collected through surveys and interactions with farmers, industries, domestic markets and exporters.This feedback on national and international requirements should be a guiding force for formulation ofresearch programmes at the institute.

Priorities with emphasis on diversified utilization and export oriented research

To promote production, utilization and exports, certain exclusive measures will have to be taken.From research point of view the important ones are development of globally competitive varieties and

41

production technologies to meet the standards of domestic and international market.

• Identification of areas in the country those are globally competitive for potato production and toconcentrate research efforts to address potato related problems in these areas.

• Identification of requirements and quality standards of importing countries.

• Development of internationally acceptable varieties having medium-big oblong tubers, yellow flesh,uniform distribution of dry matter, less black-spot bruising, less glycoalkaloids, long shelf life and firmcooking quality.

• Development of nutrients and water use efficient varieties.

• Development of varieties and agronomic practices for production of “Baby/Salad” potatoes for homeand export.

• In order to expand potato cultivation in non-traditional potato growing areas of south and peninsularIndia, the activities on development of heat tolerant varieties need a boost.

• It is easy to export processed products. Therefore, there is need to develop more varieties forprocessing.

• Developed diversified value added products and viable processing technologies at industrial scaleand at village level.

• Increasing domestic consumption through awareness campaigns.

• Development of “Cold Chipper” varieties accumulating less reducing sugars. Genes for cold chipping,high specific gravity and low reducing sugars are available in S. phureja, S. chacoense and cultivarsSnowden and Brodick. Long dormancy can be an additional attribute.

• Growing demand for organically grown food calls for development of varieties and technologies forlarge scale and self sustainable organic farming.

• To avoid gluts by diversification of potato utilization, a collaborative research programme on “Use ofPotatoes in Animal Feed” can be taken up with NDRI, IVRI, etc.

• Integration of micro-propagation in potato seed production.

• In tune with the National Agricultural Policy there is a need to strengthen activities on development oflow cost production technologies, INM/IWM components, cropping systems, crop modelling, precisionfarming, IPM/IDM components, bio-fertilizers, etc. to achieve potato growth that is technologically,environmentally and economically sustainable.

• Biotechnological efforts need to be directed towards use of output traits such as increased starchcontent, improvement in protein quality, accumulation of less reducing sugars during cold storage,improved shelf life and production of pharmaceuticals. Diagnostics and bio-fertilizers are other importantareas that need attention.

• Pest risk analysis for both imports and exports.

• Development and evaluation of water harvesting methodologies at each regional research station.

Enhancement of gene pool through population and pre-breeding

For the last 50 years we have been collecting genetic resources from various sources. But we havenot made serious efforts to acclimatize the gene pool to our agro-climate through recurrent mass selections.

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Most of our potato cultivation is done under short days of sub-tropical plains. In this regard S. tuberosumsubsp. andigena which is adapted to short days, have a good keeping quality, long dormancy, containshigh dry matter and resistance to several biotic and abiotic stresses is a very valuable material. A full-fledged long term (12-15 years) population improvement programme using recurrent selection needs to beinitiated to develop improved material for use as parental lines in various breeding programmes in future.Efforts made in this direction have resulted in improved andigena clones adopted both to short and longdays, and having good tuber size.

Another important population development programme would be breeding at diploid level.Conventionally potato is bred at tetraploid level. Heterozygosity and inbreeding depression makes thisbreeding highly inefficient. In contrast, gene management at diploid level is much easier. With the availabletechnologies it is possible to enrich gene pool at diploid level through recurrent mass selection for severalgenerations and finally use selected parental lines to introgress valuable genes into cultivated potatoes. Tostart with screening of wild species for resistance to bacterial wilt, late blight and tolerance to cold-inducedsweetning has been initiated. These are priority characters as sources of resistance/tolerance for these incultivated potatoes are either not available or inadequate.

Technical/Research collaboration with SAARC countries

India is a leader in sub-tropical potato production. The agro-climatic conditions in neighbouringcountries are similar to us and, therefore, varieties and technologies developed in India are more suitablefor adoption in these countries. If we want to break Dutch lobby in SAARC countries, we have to pushour varieties and technology aggressively through technical/research collaboration under regional co-operativeprogrammes.

Stronger linkages with other organizations, industries and progressive farmers

No tangible results can be obtained if we work in isolation. To face global challenges posed by WTOand IPR, all available expertise and resources in the country need to be pooled to make potato industrycompetitive in the world market. In this direction stronger research and production linkages with researchorganizations, industries and progressive farmers will be needed. In particular, linkages for potato seedproduction and village level processing with NGOs, Co-operatives and Gram Panchayats will be of greaterimportance in near future.

Whenever essential, such linkages also need to be developed with international organizations andmultinational companies.

11. RESEARCH PRIORITIES

11.1. Time Frame

The research priorities given below have been identified based on the current national/internationalscenario and recommendations made by the RACs and latest QRT. The research activities have beenphased into four time frames (2005-2007; 2008-2012; 2013-2020 and 2021-2025) based on their prioritiesand deliverables indicated in each time frame. The stakeholders for research output by CPRI (varieties,technologies, etc) are farmers, potato based industries, private seed companies, exporters, SAUs, stategovernments, PSUs, potato scientists and national/international organizations involved in potato researchand development.

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11.2.1. Research priorities and targets

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

GENETIC RESOURCESAugmentation of 100 accessions 250 accessions 350 accessions 450 accessionsgermplasm collection

Evaluation of germplasm 100-240 225-600 350-840 225-600in different agro-climatic accessions accessions accessions accessionsconditions for importantattributes like yield,resistances to biotic stresses(late blight, bacterial wilt,cyst nematodes, viruses,leaf hoppers and mites),tolerance to abiotic stresses(drought and heat),nutritional value andprocessing qualities

Population and pre- Screening (300- Hybridization, Evaluation, back -breeding for combining 500 accessions) evaluation and crossing (1000-pest/ disease resistance back-crossing 1200 hybrids)from Solanum species (400-600 hybrids) and identificationand andigena to develop of promisingsuperior parental lines parental linesfor yield, biotic/abioticstresses and qualitycharacters

In-vitro conservation 1400 accessions 2000 accessions 3000 accessions 4000 accessionsMolecular characteriza- - 200 accessions/ 200 accessions/ 200 accessions/tion of germplasm annum annum annumcollection using RAPD,AFLP & SSR markers

POTATO IMPROVEMENTVarieties with early Early Advanced Multilocation tests Next cycle ofmaturity (70-80 d) generations generations and release of 2-3 breeding

(F1C

1 - F

1C

3) (F

1C

4 - F

1C

7) varieties

Varieties for export Early generations Selections in Multilocation Next cycle ofpurposes (F

1C

1 - F

1C

3) F

1C

4 – F

1C

7tests & release of breeding

generations 2-3 varieties

Late blight resistant Selections in early Advanced Advanced Next cycle ofvarieties & advanced generation generation breeding

generations selections/ selections/Multi-location Multi-locationtests & release tests & releaseof 1-2 varieties of 1-2 varieties

Virus resistant varieties Selections in Advanced Multilocation Next cycle ofF

1C

1- F

1C

3generations tests and release breeding

generations (F1C

4 - F

1C

7) of 1-2 varieties

Varieties for French fries, Selections in early Advanced Advanced Next cycle ofchips and high starch & advanced generation generation breeding

generations selections/ selections/Multi-location Multi-locationtest & release test & release ofof 1-2 varieties 1-2 varieties

Contd......

44

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

Cold chipper varieties Selections of Selections in Advanced Next cycle ofparents and F

1C

1 – F

1C

5generation / breeding

hybridization generations Multilocationtests & releaseof 1-2 varieties

Varieties tolerant to Selections in early Advanced Advanced Next cycle ofdrought and high & advanced generation generation breedingtemperatures generations for selections/ selections/

high temperature Multi-location Multi-locationScreening of test & release test & release ofgermplasm for of at least 1 heat at least 1 droughtdrought tolerance tolerant variety tolerant variety

Low fertilizer responsive Screening of Selections of Initial/final Next cycle ofvarieties germplasm parents & yield trials breeding

accessions hybridization

Development of early Selections of Progeny tests Multilocation Next cycle ofbulking and late blight parents & tests & release of breedingresistant TPS lines hybridization 1-2 TPS populations

Development of varieties Selections in Advanced Advanced Next cycle ofpossessing resistance to F

1C

1- F

1C

4generations trials generation trials breeding

both late blight and generations and release of and release of atcyst nematodes 1 variety 1-2 varieties

Production of tuberosum x tuberosum x Evaluation for 2n Next cycle ofdihaploids phureja phureja gametes & breedingfor pre-breeding crossing & crossing & agronomic traits

screening screening

Development of meiotic Crossing 4x X 2x Selection & 4x X MT crossing, Next cycle oftetraploids (MTs) for & selection of screening for screening & breedinglate blight resistance MTs resistance selection of hybrids& their utilization as parents or for

release

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Development of late Raising F1 (KJ/ Evaluations F

1C

2Multilocation tests Initiation of

blight resistant KBR x RB- to F1C

6Limited & release of transgenic work

transgenics using Katahdin) field trials and food varieties with new genesRB gene (ABSP II) Transformation safety analysis of for LB resistance

with RB gene. transgenics.Glasshouse Release of 1-2 lateevaluation of blight resistanttransgenics. transgenics.

Potato genome Sequencing of Identification of – –sequencing (as a member one chromosome genes involved inof Potato Genome (Chr. 2 of potato) tuberization andSequencing Consortium) late blight resistance

Development of virus Cloning of viral Limited field trial. – –resistant transgenics sequencesusing pathogen and constructderived genes development.

Transformation. Food safety analysis. – –Glasshouse Release of 1-2evaluation. transgenics

Contd......

45

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

Bacterial wilt resistance Glasshouse Limited field trials, Limited field trials, Use of new geneusing b-defensin gene evaluation of food safety food safety for bacterial wilt

existing analysis and analysis and resistancetransgenics Fresh release of 1-2 release of 1-2transformation. resistant resistant transgenics

transgenics from freshtransformants.

Prevention of cold- In vitro & Limited field trial – –induced sweetening glasshouse and food safety(inhh/PTGS) evaluation. analysis.

Release of promisingtransgenics for coldchipping.

Improvement in starch In vitro & Limited field trial Release of 1-2 –quality (Amylose-free glasshouse and food safety transgenics forstarch) evaluation. analysis. producing better

quality starch.

Identification of QTLs Raising F1

SSR & EST Validation & Use of QTLsfor late blight resistance population, analysis. Map application of marker assisted

phenotyping construction and linked markers. solution inand AFLP QTL identification. Cloning of breedinganalysis. candidate gene(S).

Cloning of novel genes Infrastructure Identification of Cloning of –development for genes regulating candidate genesmicroarray tuberization and involved inanalysis. early stages of late tuberization andStandardization blight /virus resistances to bioticof RNaseP & pathogenesis by stresses.cytomic tools. microarray Gene function

analysis. analysis by RNasePand cytomics.Patenting of genesfor IPR protection.

Chloroplast Development of Plastid Glasshouse trial. Chloroplasttransformation to potato-specific transformation to Limited field trial transformation forimprove starch quantity. vector. improve starch and food safety starch quality

Standardization quantity of potato analysis.of transformation/ (glgC from E. coli).regenerationprotocol.

Symmetric and Symmetric and Development of Use of somatic –asymmetric somatic asymmetric somatic hybrids hybrids, nohybridizations for somatic between 1 EBN hybridizationpotato improvement and hybridizations for wild sps and 2 with cultivatedgermplasm utilization. potato improvement EBN dihaploids types(somatic hybridization and germplasmbetween 1 EBN wild utilization.sps and 2 EBN (somaticdihaploids) hybridization

between 1 EBNwild sps and 2EBN dihaploids)

Contd......

46

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

Cellular and molecular Cellular and Ceramide signaling – –dissection of signal molecular pathway will betransduction. dissection of dissected especially

signal transduction for late blightpathways resistance andinvolving cell tuberizationcycle analysis andapoptosis, potatotuberization, widehybridization anddisease responses.

POTATO PRODUCTION

Develop agro- Develop potato Determine potato – –ecological zone models and data production undermaps of potato. base of crop and different situations

weather and develop thematicparameters for maps using the cropdifferent locations and weather datain India. bases for agro-

ecological zoning.

Increase nutrient use Screening of Develop decision Develop precision Continueefficiency. cultivars for support tools for site farming technology

higher nutrient use specific nutrient including cropefficiency. management. modeling, remoteDevelop multiple Standardize agro- sensing and GIS.and intercropping techniques for Standardize agro-systems for different cropping techniques fordifferent production systems using newly releasedsituations. simulation models. hybrids/varieties

Increase water use Screening of Develop irrigation Develop decision –efficiency. cultivars for systems for support tools for

higher water increasing water precision irrigation.use efficiency use efficiency.

Studies on effect ofsprinkler and dripirrigation on aerialand soil microflora

Enhance potato Work out potential Develop agro- Field experimen- –productivity in productivity of technology for tation for theplateau region and these areas through these situations refinement ofhills. models using crop agro-technology.

(INFOCROP- simulation modelsPOTATO). (INFOCROP-

POTATO) and GIS

Work out sustainability Study the Study the Design sustainable Continueof potato production. implications of implications of potato production

different potato different potato systems.production productiontechnologies on technologies onyield and productivity andeconomics. soil health

Contd......

47

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

Reduce energy Work out Modification of Field testing of Continuerequirements of energetics of design of the the prototypes ofpotato production. existing implements designs for different

implements/ including electronic farming situations.devices and and electro-other cultural mechanical systemsoperations and develop

prototypes fordifferent farmingsituations.

Organic potato Field Standardize Studies on the long Continueproduction experimentation technology and term implications

for developing package for organic of organic potatotechnology for potato productions production onorganic potato under different soil health.production. agro-climatic

conditions.

Develop DSS & crop Develop DSS for Develop DSS for Develop DSS for Refinement ofmodels for potato weed management weed management farming systems developed DSS

Standardize Standardizeregional scale regional scaleyield acreage yield acreageestimation estimationmethodology using methodology usingcrop models and crop models andremote sensing. remote sensing.

Develop precision Standardize Continue Application of Continuefarming technologies methodology for precision farmingfor potato classifying soil techniques at

fertility status/ regional scale.organic mattercontent/soiltexture throughremote sensing.

Synthesize suitable Evaluation Study the Study the cropping Continuepotato based production cropping pattern pattern in importantcropping systems potential & in important potato potato growingfor different potato economics of growing areas areas through remotegrowing zones. different potato through remote sensing.Standardize

based cropping sensing. agro-techniques forsystem in different croppingdifferent zones. Standardize agro- systems usingDevelop multiple techniques for simulation models.and intercropping different croppingsystems for systems usingdifferent simulation models.productionsituations.

Contd......

48

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

POTATO PROTECTION

Surveillance of Identification of Molecular/ Development of Development ofimportant pests and areas of chemical diagnostics for microarray/pathogens. occurrence characterization detection of new biochip for

and biological of pests & pathogens/pests. pathogencharacterization pathogens. detectionof pests &pathogens.

Development of Nucleic acid Serology based Extension of virus Effectiveserological and based detection detection kits to vector relationship management ofNASH techniques kits to be be achieved.Virus- to manage the the diseasefor the detection developed vector relationship disease.of ToLCNDV Virusvector

relationship

Pest risk analysis for PRA of Further refinement PRA for more pests PRA for moremajor pests. R. solanacearum, of PRA as demanded by the pests.

P. infestans, International TradeS. endobioticumto be completed

Total variability of Collection of Molecular Colning of genes Use of microarraymajor pests/ isolates of characterization for pathogen in pathogenpathogens p. infestans, of the collected derived detection;

R. solanacearum isolates resistance. effectiveToLCNDV, Development of management ofB.tabaci and their microarray/ pathogens.biological biochips forcharacterization pathogenand maintenance detection.

Development of Requirements for Reproduction of Development of Use of microarray/molecular and these technologies technologies under microarray/ biochip in diseaseelectronic diagnostics to be identified Indian conditions. biochip managementfor large scale and procuredexport/import.

Development of Development of Testing of Extension of ContinuedDecision Support forecasting models forecasting models technologymajor diseases/pests for initial occurrence. Develop models developed(late blight and aphids) Develop models for disease Use of the gained Continued

for disease progression knowledge inprogression. Develop yield loss disease management.Develop yield loss assessment models Use of the gained Continuedassessment models. Development of knowledge in disease

Decision Support management.Systems Use of the gained Continued

knowledge in diseasemanagement.

Production of ELISA Production of Production of Production of Continuedkits for the detection antisera for PVX, antisera for PVX, antisera for PVX,of common potato S and Y. S, Y, A and M. S, Y, A and M.viruses Development of

microarray biochipfor virus detection

Contd......

49

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

Molecular diagnostics Development of Refinement and Development of Continuedfor the detection of PCR based simplification for microarray forP. infestans and detection large scale testing detectionR. solanacearum techniques.

IDM/IPM for major Isolation of fungal Large scale Extension of Furtherdiseases/pests and bacterial formulations & technologies development of

antagonists evaluations of developed technology toEvaluation of antagonists and control pests withbotanicals botanicals. antagonists

PHYSIOLOGY AND POST HARVEST TECHNOLOGY

Extending storage life Storage experiments Small scale trials Large scale trials Extension ofduring non-refrigerated with CIPC and with CIPC and with CIPC and on-farm storagestorage screening of natural volatile natural volatile technology

natural volatile plant products plant productscompounds forsprout suppression

Storage behaviour of Storage and Evaluation of CO2

Reconditioning Variety-wiseprocessing varieties at evaluation of concentration on studies to improve storage trials indifferent temperature processing varieties sugar accumulation the processing commercial cold

at 8, 12, 16 and 20C during storage quality of potatoes stores andcoupled with CIPC stored at different recommendations

temperature

Diversified utilization Preparation of flour Utilization of pulp Nutritional quality Development ofof potatoes flakes and granules as animal feed/ of potato protein different potato

from potatoes adhesive products toincrease potatoutilization

Identification of Studies on enzymes Studies on sugar Identification of Identification ofbiochemical factors involved in to starch conversion genes for superior genes for superioraffecting quality of carbohydrate during processing quality processing qualitypotatoes metabolism reconditioning

Heat tolerance in Isolation and Characterization Development of Field trials, foodpotatoes identification of of isolated genes for transgenic plants safety analysis of

genes involved in their role in tolerant to heat transgenics fortuberization tuberization under stress and their release as heat

normal and high evaluation tolerant varietiestemperatureconditions

Induction of dwarfism Transformation, Limited field trials, Release of dwarf Development ofin potato through rDNA in vitro and glass food safety analysis. transgenic/mutant more dwarftechnology (PTGS of house evaluation. Evaluation of varieties varieties for betterGA 20 ox) and mutations Mutagenesis for dwarf mutants. performance underfor cultivation in hills dwarfism. heat stress and long

day conditions.

Drought tolerance in Screening of Combining high Evaluation of Release of droughtpotatoes potato germplasm WUE with high hybrids for yield tolerant varieties

for water use dry matter and under limited Identification ofefficiency and tuber yield through water supply and genes responsibletranspiration breeding Screening rain-fed conditions for better rootingIdentification of of the progeny Multi-location characteristicshigh WUE and yield trialshigh dry matteraccessions

Contd......

50

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

SOCIAL SCIENCES

Modelling and forecasting Survey and Area estimation Providing yield Providing yield &analysis of time using remote & price forecasting price forecastingseries data of sensing & GIS service servicepotato prices

Demand estimation of Survey of organized Assessment of Work out product Continuedprocessed potato products and unorganized growth of potato specific marketing

processing sector processing industry system

Assessment of Indian Survey and Analysis of Identification of Provide policypotato marketing system analysis of secondary data destinations for recommendationfor exports domestic markets of foreign markets Indian potatoes

Analysis of returns on Study on economic Analysis of research Analysis of benefits -investment in potato impact of potato cost items at the accrued to farmersresearch in India production Institute

technology

Impact assessment of Identification of Continued Continued Continueextension strategies for technological gaps,technology dissemination technology

assessment &refinement, impactassessment.

HRD of state extension Conducting training Conducting follow- Continued Continuefunctionaries. and workshops. up studies of trained

Disseminating extensioninformation through functionariesbulletins, CDs,internet, etc

Design of Experiments Planning, designing Continued Continued Continue& analysis of data and interpretation

of experimentalresults of differentDivisions

Development of potato Collection & Updating of Updating of Continuedatabase tabulation of database database

secondary data

SEED PRODUCTION

Production of breeders’ 8000 t 14000 t 16000 t 18000 tseed (All Stations) (All Stations) (All Stations) (All Stations)

Seed production in Signing of MOUs NEH: 3200 t* NEH: 3200 t Continuepartnership with Govt. Pvt.: 1000 t Pvt. : 1000 t(NEH)/Private sector (*Private sector)

Expansion of seed 25000 50000 MP 100000 MP Continuemultiplication through Microplants (MP) 20000 MT 25000 MTtissue culture at 10000 (Modipuram) (Modipuram)Modipuram & Shillong Microtubers (MT)

(Modipuram)10000 MP 20000 MP 30000 MP Continue5000MT(Shillong) 10000 MT(Shillong) 25000 MT (Shillong)

Contd......

51

11.3.1. Research priorities and targets

Critical gaps Research target Approaches to achieve target

2005-2007

Limitation of area Diversify cultivation The germplasm accessions/ potato hybrids and varieties willunder potato of potato in kharif be evaluated in batches in the kharif crop under rain fed

crop in plateau condition at Dharwad centre to identify promising genotypes.region. Suitable potato varieties and agronomic practices for

diversifying potato cultivation in kharif crop in plateau regionwill be standardized

Incorporate potato Surveillance of different potato based cropping systems inin different cropping important potato growing regions will be under taken at differentsystems. AICRP centres to identify remunerative cropping systems (inter-

or rotational crop). Suitable agronomic practices need to bedeveloped and varieties identified for cultivation of potato assandwich crop in the rice-wheat system (occupying more than10 million hectare area).

Shortage of short Development of Early maturing hybrids will be evaluated at different centres induration varieties short duration potato the plains to develop new high yielding short duration potato

varieties. varieties to fit potato in different cropping systems under theprevailing intensive cultivation practices and to enhance areaunder potato in different regions.

New pests/ diseases Integrated New insect/pests are emerging in different regions and causingmanagement of severe yield losses directly or indirectly (through viruses spreadwhite flies and by these pests) to potato crop. White fly and stem necrosis arepotato stem necrosis. the emerging threats to potato in different parts of the country.

Studies will be undertaken at the AICRP centres in the problemareas to identify potato varieties/hybrids having resistance tothese pests vis-à-vis find optimum planting dates with minimumpest infestation/damage to the crop.

11.3. Research Priorities of All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato

Contd......

Target 2005-2007 2008-2012 2013-2020 2021-2025

Establishment of Tissue Creation of TC 25000 MP 50000 MPCulture Labs (TC) and Lab Jalandhar 10000 MT 15000 MTproduction of seed at (Jalandhar) (Jalandhar) ContinueJalandhar, Patna, Creation of TC 10000 MP 20000 MPGwalior & Ooty. Lab Patna 5000 MT(Patna) 10000 MT(Patna) Continue

Creation of TC 10000 MP 10000 MPLab Gwalior 5000 MT(Gwalior) 5000 MT(Gwalior) ContinueCreation of 10000 MP 10000 MP TC LabOoty 5000 MT(Ooty) 5000 MT(Ooty) Continue

Involvement of Private Signing BS: 1500 tSector in multiplication BS: 1000 tof breeders’ seedof MOUs

52

Critical gaps Research target Approaches to achieve target

2008-2012

Limitation of area Identify new areas In view of shrinking arable land no crop can be sacrificed to putunder potato for potato cultivation more area under potato. Therefore, opportunities will be explored

& develop package for potato cultivation in new/non-traditional areas. Systematicof practices and attempts will be made to develop suitable varieties/packagevarieties of practices for potato cultivation under rain fed condition in

kahrif season for which the trials will be conducted at Dharwadcentre.

Identification of heat Evaluation and identification of germplasm/hybrids suitable fortolerant potato hybrids growing in South India under high temperature regimes.for south India

Inefficient use Development of High cost of inputs has been hampering potato cultivation inof nutrients nutrient efficient many parts of our country. Fertilizers are the second most costly

potato hybrids inputs after seed. Potato hybrids/ varieties that are nutrient(early/medium efficient and producing high yields in short/medium durationsmaturing) (75-90 days) will be developed following multilocation testing

of new hybrids at different AICRP centres.

Inadequate Production of The yields of potato in many states are much below the nationalavailability of quality tuber seed/ average mainly for want of non-availability and high cost ofquality seed TPS derived planting quality tuber seed. Surveys will be conducted in collaboration

material. with the state departments of agriculture/horticulture/extensionservices & state agriculture universities to identify areas suitablefor producing quality tuber seed. TPS would also be used asalternative for producing quality planting material in lowproductivity states. Early bulking TPS populations with highertransplant survival will be identified.

Increasing Identify Survey of potato based cropping systems in different regionsproductivity per remunerative potato will be conducted to identify most commonly adopted systemunit time and based cropping and evaluate them for economic returns to find mostarea systems remunerative system in the region.

Maximization of Maximization of Considering the global change in climate or weather conditionpotato yields potato yield through it is imperative to reschedule planting dates for potato to

agronomic maximize yields for which trials will be undertaken at AICRPmanipulations. centres in important potato growing regions of the country.

Yield losses due Develop integrated Many pesticides used to control diseases/pests are hazardousto diseases/pests pest management and polluting the environment. It is therefore, essential to

schedules for potato develop integrated pest management schedules for differentregions of the country for minimizing the use of pesticides andalternatively use bio agents/plant extracts as pesticides.

Low per capita Diversify potato In contrast to many developed countries consumption of potatoconsumption of consumption in India is very low for the per capita potato availability in the

potato country, where it is consumed mainly as a vegetable. To enhanceper capita consumption of potato in the country the processedpotato products may be promoted in the domestic andinternational markets, which would need varieties for processingand also having culinary values and good storability. Differenthybrids will be evaluated in the multilocation trials under AICRPto identify hybrids that suit the needs of processing industry.

Contd......

53

Critical gaps Research target Approaches to achieve target

2013-2020

Shortage of Development of In the face of changing agro-climatic conditions new potatovarieties for new generation varieties will be required for planting in early and the main cropchanging farming early and medium season, to fit potato in different cropping systems in differentpatterns. maturing potato regions. New potato varieties will be needed that are early

varieties. medium maturing and having heat tolerance, high tuber drymatter and storability both under ambient and refrigeratedstorage conditions. Trials for this purpose will be conducted atdifferent AICRP centres in different regions.

Shortage of Strengthen the Upon diversification of potato cultivation in new/non-traditionalquality seed quality tuber seed areas and different cropping systems the demand for qualitypotatoes in production in seed tuber seed will increase exponentially in different states. Basedmany states deficit potato on surveys, new areas for producing quality seed potatoes will

growing regions be identified and seed production will be initiated.

Negligible export Producing potatoes For promoting export of potato from India there will be need toof ware/seed with the standards produce potatoes with high tuber dry matter, better keepingpotatoes acceptable in the quality in transportation and low residues of hazardous

international pesticides. Studies will be undertaken at different AICRP centresmarkets. on organic farming/substrate dynamics and usage of bio

fertilizers to minimize the use of inorganic fertilizers as well ashazardous chemicals against diseases under the prevailing highcropping intensity.

High cost of Development of Potato being high input crop and considering the escalatingpotato cultivation low cost potato costs of inputs such as chemical fertilizers and the pesticides,

production there is a need to develop low cost potato production technologytechnology to optimize the use of inputs. Studies in this direction will be

undertaken at different AICRP centres.

Low export of Identify new hybrids Value addition in the potato varieties for export purpose wouldprocessed potato with attributes of be essential. Evaluation of new hybrids under varied agroproducts processing quality climates to identify suitable ones for processing purpose will

be done at different AICRP centres.

Inadequate Identify hybrid With the expected increase in area under potato over the yearsquality planting TPS populations/ the demand for tuber seed/ quality planting material will alsomaterial/ seed agronomic practices increase exponentially. TPS could be used as an alternativepotatoes giving better source for this purpose. Identification of suitable TPS

survival and plant populations through hybridization among the genotypes withvigour in transplanted genetic variability from diverse sources and standardizationseedlings of agronomic practices giving better survival of transplanted

seedlings will be undertaken at different AICPIP centres.

Lack of potato Develop suitable This would need to have potato varieties that are nutrientvarieties for agro techniques efficient and could give higher yields in organic farming. Alsoorganic farming and hybrids for to minimize the usage of chemical fertilizers and pesticides,

organic potato different sources of organic manures, biofertilizers andfarming biopesticides for higher yield and quality of potato will be

explored at different AICRP centres.

Post harvest Improvisation of In many states the storage facility (refrigerated stores) is eitherlosses traditional storages lacking or not adequate to accommodate the ware/seed potatoes.

Many small /marginal farmers in these states sell their produceimmediately after harvest; some are using traditional systemsfor storing their potatoes both for seed or ware purpose andbearing losses due to rottage. This is an important area where

Contd......

54

Critical gaps Research target Approaches to achieve target

research is needed to be focused to make innovations for makingthe traditional storage of potato more efficient and effective sothat farmers could retain their produce at least for couple ofmonths especially at the peak of harvesting time so that distresssale of potato in the market by poor farmers could be avoided.Testing of improvised techniques developed at CPRI could beundertaken at different centres in collaboration with the stateagriculture universities and state departments of agriculturehorticulture and through farmer participatory approaches toimprove the efficiency of traditional storage systems.

2021-2025

Shortage of Identification of In view of the shrinking arable land day by day and anticipatedvarieties for new early/medium change in the cropping intensity/pattern in future there will bechanging maturing potato pressing demand for potato varieties that could be fitted incropping intensity/ varieties different cropping systems. Trials will be conducted at differentpattern AICRP (Potato) centers in this direction.

Expansion of Varietal trials using For increasing area under potato it is imperative to promotepotato in non- improved potato potato cultivation in the non-traditional areas by initiatingtraditional areas varieties preliminary vareital trials with the help of state department ofis lacking agriculture/horticulture and Agriculture universities in the areas.

Studies in this direction will be undertaken at selected AICRPcenters.

Shortage of Identification of hybrids/ For achieving the production target of potato by 2025, eithervarieties for varieties with high area or productivity per unit area as well as total factor potatocultivation yield and adaptability productivity of this important food crop will have to be increasedin kharif and in kharif crop in across the diverse agro-climates of the country. This wouldplateau areas the plains require varieties better adapted and producing high yields in

diverse agro-climates including kharif season in the plains andplateau areas. Trials will be conducted at selected centers.

Saving on water Identification of Fertilizers are next costly inputs after seed and there is need toand nutrients potato varieties have potato varieties that are nutrient efficient and agro-

for efficient use techniques and tolerant to drought thereby using less water forof water and producing higher yield. Water is going to be the biggestnutrients constraint in the near future and there is dire need to develop

potato varieties that are tolerant to drought and efficient inusing water so that under ground water resources are not overexploited. Trials will be designed & conducted at differentcenters of the project.

Lack of potato Identification of This would need potato varieties that are nutrient efficient andvarieties for suitable agro could give higher yields in organic farming. Also to minimizeorganic farming techniques and the usage of chemical fertilizers and pesticides different sources

hybrids for organic of organic manures, biofertilizers and biopesticides giving higherpotato farming yield and quality of potato will be explored at different AICRP

centres.

Post harvest Improvisation of In many states the storage facility (refrigerated stores) is eitherlosses traditional lacking or not adequate to accommodate the ware/seed potatoes.

storagestructures Many small/marginal farmers in these states are left with nooption but to sell their produce at whatever prices available atthe time of harvesting, which some times result in heavymonetary losses; some farmers use traditional systems forstoring their potatoes both for seed or ware purpose and have

Contd......

55

Critical gaps Research target Approaches to achieve target

to bear losses due to rottage. This is an important area whereresearch is needed to be focused to make innovations for makingthe traditional storage of potato more efficient and effective sothat farmers could retain their produce at least for couple ofmonths especially at the peak of harvesting time so that distresssale of potato could be avoided. Testing of improvisedtechniques developed at CPRI could be undertaken at differentcentres in collaboration with the state agriculture universitiesand state departments of agriculture horticulture and throughfarmer participatory approaches to improve the efficiency oftraditional storage systems.

Inadequate Identify hybrid With the expected increase in area under potato over the yearsquality planting TPS populations/ the demand for tuber seed/quality planting material will alsomaterial/seed agronomic practices increase exponentially. TPS could be used as an alternativepotatoes giving better survival source of healthy planting material in areas unsuitable for

and plant vigour in production and maintenance of quality tuber seed of populartransplanted seedlings varieties. Identification of suitable TPS populations through

hybridization among the genotypes with genetic variability fromdiverse sources and standard-ization of agronomic practicesproviding better survival of transplanted seedlings will beundertaken at different AICRP (Potato) centers through initiatingindependent breeding programmes at SAU based centers ofAICRP (Potato) in distinct agro-climates.

12. FUNDING NEEDS

The anticipated expenditure of CPRI during the XI plan period is likely to be Rs. 5306.63 lakhsunder plan (Table 19) and 13142.60 lakhs under non-plan. About 27% of this is expected to be raised bythe institute through its own resources, like RFS, training, consultancies, externally funded schemes etc.

Based on compound growth rate of 49.55% for plan expenditure during VII to X plan and ratio ofplan : non-plan expenditure (1:3.67), plan and non-plan funding needs of CPRI for X, XI, XII and XIIIplan periods are given in Table 20.

The anticipated expenditure of AICRP (Potato) during the XI plan period is likely to be Rs. 21.65lakhs under plan (Table 21). Based on compound growth rate of 56.28% for plan expenditure during VIIto X plan, funding needs of AICRP (Potato) for XI, XII and XIII plan periods are given in Table 24.

Table 19: Broad head-wise and year-wise break up of XI-Plan budget of CPRIRs. in Lakhs

Head 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Total

A. Recurring

Pay & Allowances - - - - - -

TA 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 100.00

HRD - 10.00 10.00 - - 20.00

Contingencies 100.00 140.00 140.00 120.00 100.00 600.00

Sub Total (A) 120.00 170.00 170.00 140.00 120.00 720.00

Contd......

56

Table 21: Broad head-wise and year-wise break up of XI-Plan budget of AICRP (Potato) - ICARShare

Rs. in lakhs

Sl. Head of account 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 TotalNo.

A Recurring

1. Pay & Allowance 180.0 185.71 198.58 210.68 225.30 1000.27

2. TA 3.98 2.93 3.98 2.93 3.98 17.78

3. Contingency 23.40 23.40 23.40 23.40 23.40 117.00

4. Frontline 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.05 5.25demonstration onfarmers fields

Sub – Total A 208.43 213.09 227.01 238.6 253.73 1140.3

B Non Recurring

1. Works 44.75 8.50 - - - 53.25

2. Equipments 12.10 16.00 - - - 28.10

Sub – Total B 56.85 24.50 - - - 81.35

Grand Total A + B 265.28 237.59 227.01 238.6 253.73 1221.65

Head 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Total

B. Non-RecurringEquipments 140.00 165.00 175.00 100.00 96.70 676.70

Works 238.00 175.00 180.00 100.00 84.23 777.23

Library 25.00 35.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 150.00

Others - - - - - -

Sub Total (B) 403.00 375.00 385.00 230.00 210.93 1603.93

Total (A+B) 523.00 545.00 555.00 370.00 330.93 2323.93

C. New Project on potato Genome sequencing1426.94 716.94 358.94 340.94 138.94 2982.70

Grand (A+B+C) 1949.94 1241.94 913.94 720.94 488.94 5306.63

* This also includes wages for casual laborers granted with Temporary Status

Table 20: Funding needs of CPRI for XI, XII and XIII plan periodsRs. in lakhs

Plan period Plan Non-plan

X Plan (2002-2007) 1505 5525

XI Plan (2007-2012) 2251 8260

XII Plan (2012-2018) 3366 12350

XIII Plan (2018-2023) 5034 18475

(2023-2024) 2850 10440

57

13. RESEARCH AND PRODUCTION LINKAGESAND EXECUTION ARRANGEMENTS

To face global challenges posed by WTO and IPR, all available expertise and resources in thecountry as well as outside need to be used to make Indian potato industry competitive in the world market.In this direction stronger research and production linkages with research organizations, industries, progressivefarmers and other organizations will be needed. Some of such possible linkages are given below.

Table 22: Funding needs of AICRP (Potato) for XI, XII and XIII plan periodsRs. in lakhs

Plan period Plan

XI Plan (2007-2012) 1200

XII Plan (2012-2018) 2100

XIII Plan (2018-2023) 3600

(2023-2024) 2500

13.1. Research Linkages

Organization Details of areas in which collaboration is proposed Reasons for such linkages

NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Advanced Centre in • Molecular diagnostics • Development of molecular diagnostics for new

Plant Virology, IARI, • Virus resistant transgenics emerging viruses like ALCV & PSNV.

New Delhi • Development of virus resistant transgenics for PVY

and ALCV.

APEDA, DGCIS, • Potato export • Collection and analysis of information on potato

New Delhi export.

BARC, Trombay • Transgenics • Development of transgenics for virus resistance.

• Potato storage • Research collaboration for irradiation and storage

of potatoes.

CFTRI, Mysore • Processing • Development of novel potato products.

CIAE, Bhopal • Farm machinery • Collaboration for development for low energy

requiring farm machinery.

CWCR & TI, • INM and IWM • Use of expertise and research infrastructure for

Dehradun priority research in INM & IWM

Frito-Lay (India), • Potato processing • Online testing of processing quality of Indian potato

New Delhi varieties and hybrids.

IARI, New Delhi • Crop modeling and • Research collaboration for testing and validation of

simulation potato crop models.

• Integrated nutrient and • Use of expertise and research infrastructure for

water management priority research in INM & IWM

• Potato irradiation • Collaboration with NRL for potato irradiation and

and storage storage.

IASRI, New Delhi • Price forecasting • Models developed for price forecasting through this

collaboration will be highly useful to potato growers

in marketing their produce.

Contd......

58

Organization Details of areas in which collaboration is proposed Reasons for such linkages

NCAP, New Delhi Studies on • To develop demand estimation models for potato

• Demand estimation area planning.

• Research impact • Analysis of impact of potato research and prioritizing

research areas.

NCPGR, New Delhi • Transgenics • AmA1 gene has been cloned and patented by

NCPGR.

• Introduction of this gene in Indian potato varieties

is likely to improve nutritional qualities of potatoes

(improved protein quantity and quality)

IAM, Jaipur • Marketing analysis • Methodology for market analysis developed by

NIAM will be refined and used for potato.

NIN, Hyderabad • Nutrition • Nutritional qualities of potatoes and how potato can

be integrated in RDA.

NRC for Women • Women empowerment • To develop methodologies for women empowerment

in Agriculture, in potato farming and post harvest handling.

Bhubneshwar

NRC on Plant • Transgenics • Development of transgenics for insect resistance and

Biotechnology, • Molecular aspects of drought tolerance.

New Delhi abiotic stress management. • Collaboration for research on molecular mechanism

of heat/drought tolerance.

PAU, Ludhiana • Farm Machinery • Collaboration for development of low energy farm

machinery.

Space Applications • Remote sensing and GIS • Expertise and facilities can be used to pursue

(ISRO), Ahmedabad advanced research in this modern field.

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

AIT, Thailand • INM & IWM • Research collaboration and HRD in these fields.

• Farm Machinery

Alternate Crops and • Crop modeling and • Validation of potato crop models developed by them

Systems Laboratory, simulation in India.

USDA, Beltsville, USA • HRD.

Centre for • Physiology of drought • The CABO is a leader in research on these aspects.

Agrobiological resistance Their expertise can be utilized for developing

Research (CABO), • Photosynthesis and superior potato varieties and planting material in

Wageningen, productivity India.

Netherlands. • Seed physiology

Cornell University, • Physiology of stress • Research collaboration and HRD for;

Ithaca, New York, resistance • Development of varieties tolerent to abiotic stresses.

USA. • Molecular breeding • Refinement of our late blight forecasting model for

• Late Blight forecasting. accurate and more advance forecasting.

• Late blight breeding • LB breeding

(ABSP-II)

Horticulture Research • Programmed cell death • For expertise on research on programmed cell death

International, in potato.

Warwick, UK

Contd......

59

Organization Details of areas in which collaboration is proposed Reasons for such linkages

International Potato • Genetic resources • Being CGIAR Institute exclusively working on rootCentre, Lima, Peru • Control of bacterial wilt and tuber crops, CIP can offer germplasm as well as

• Research prioritization. research expertise in the fields listed in column 2.• Training of CPRI They have expertise as well as infrastructure to

Scientists in frontier areas address these problems more effectively.

Max-Plank-Institute • Use of molecular markers • It is one of the world’s premier institutions. Researchfor Plant Breeding like RFLP, SSR and AFLP collaboration and HRD at this Institute would beResearch, W-5000 for studying yield attributes, beneficial in deciphering molecular mechanismsKoln 30, FRG virus resistance and under lying yield attributes and resistances to viruses

structure of late blight and late blight.resistance genes

PICTIPAPA, Mexico • Collaborative research • Late blight of potato is a recurring problem in theon potato late blight hills as well as plains in India. Maxico, due to

predominance of complex races of late blightpathogen, is most suitable place to conduct late blightrelated research. Moreover, PICTIPAPA hasadequate experisie in this field.

Rothamstead • Control of bacterial wilt • Rothamstead Experiment Station has adequateExperiment Station, • Identification and control facilities and expertise for these aspects of potatoHarpenden, Herts, of cyst nematodes research. These are also priorities in India. ResearchUK • Biological control of aphids. collaboration as well as training of Indian Scientists

• Nutrient balance sheet in on these aspects will be highly beneficial to thecropping systems. Country.

Rutgers University, • Plastid transformation • Expertise and HRD in chloroplast transformation.New Jersey, USA

Salisbury Research • Transgenics • Expertise and HRD in antibiotic resistant marker-Laboratory, UK free genetic transformation.

Scottish Crop • Developments of diploid • Scottish Crop Research Institute has manyResearch Institute germplasm with resistance exemplary achievements at its credit in the fields(SCRI), Invergowrie, to abiotic stresses like identified under column 2. Indian Research isDD2, 5DA Scotland, drought, heat tolerance etc. slightly deficient in these areas and research(UK) • Germplasm of wild collaborations and HRD at this Institute would be

species, conservation beneficial to develop scientific expertise in theand characterization. country as well as to address these major problems.

• Environmental factorsaffecting spread of lateblight.

• Late blight resistancebreeding

• Electron microscopyof viruses

• Low temperaturesweetening in storedpotatoes.

• Training of CPRIScientists in frontier areas.

Institute fiir • Identification & • IPK is a strong centre of international potato Wildpflanzengenetik conservation of wild species collection, characterization andund kulturpflan- species cryoconservation. Indian research on wild spp needszenforschering, • Cryoconservation to be strengthened. Research collaboration and HRD(IPK), GroB at this institute would be beneficial to the country.Lusewitzer, Germany

Contd......

60

31.2. Production Linkages

APEDA, New Delhi Potato Export To identify international markets for fresh/table

potatoes and processed products and accelerate

potato export from India.

Chambal Agritech Seed Production Production of quality seed for export.

Limited, Chandigarh

Cold stores in Potato storage TOT for storing table and processing potatoes at

different states 10-12 0C.

Different Co-operatives Seed production, processing Stronger linkages with farmers’ co-operatives in

and marketing potato growing areas of the country could be valuable

for quality seed production, processing and

marketing of potatoes.

Frito-Lay (India), Potato processing Evaluation and popularization of Indian processing

New Delhi potato varieties.

Government of Seed production Production of breeders’/quality potato seed for NEH

Manipur region

Organization Details of areas in which collaboration is proposed Reasons for such linkages

Texas A & M, USA • INM and IWM • Research collaboration and HRD.

TIGR, USA • Genomics • Expertise and HRD in functional genomics

(microarray and ESTs).

University of Chicago, • Programmed cell death • Expertise on programmed cell death in relation to

Illinois, USA plant disease response.

University of • Cryo-preservation • Cryopreservation is an important tool to conserve

Minnesota, • Low temperature genetic resources for long periods. These will ease

St. Paul, Min., USA sweetening pressure on limiting resources like manpower, space

• Returns of investment and other inputs. Cold induced sweetening is a major

in agricultural research problem in potato processing. Collaborative research

programmes and training of our Scientists on these

aspects will be highly beneficial for potato

development in the country.

University of Reading, • Marketing of farm produce • During WTO era International marketing and

Reading, UK and international trade market intellegence are important aspects for

in potatoes. boosting potato export from India. Potato being

• Modelling of crop growth highly suitable for inclusion in intensive cropping

and yield. systems, crop modelling is a new emerging tool in

potato production.

University of • Germplasm • One of the largest repositories of potato germplasm,

Wisconsin, USA • Late blight breeding exceptional expertise in potato late blight breeding

and QTL mapping.

Wageningen • Potato genomics • Expertise and HRD in genome sequencing and

Agricultural functional genomics.

University,

Wageningen,

Netherlands

Weizmann Institute • Heat tolerance • Heat tolerant germplasm and renowned expertise in

of Science, Rehovot, potato breeding

Israel.

Contd......

61

Ministry of Food • Potato processing Frontline research in potato processing and to put

Processing Industry this research to commercial use in India.

NGO’s and Gram • Processing These are likely to be effective organizations to

Panchayats promote village level potato processing.

NHB, Gurgaon • Potato storage Development and extension of economically viable

storage technologies developed at CPRI.

Progressive potato • Seed production Production of breeders’/quality potato seed for seed

growers deficient areas.

SAUs in different • Evaluation of technologies Evaluation of technologies developed at CPRI

potato producing states • Seed production and AICRP (Potato) will be accelerated.

The infrastructure in the form of land can be better

utilized for production of breeder’s/quality seed

by SAUs deficient seed producing areas.

State departments of Transfer of Technologies TOT on production, storage and utilization of

Agriculture/Horticulture potatoes developed at CPRI and AICRP (Potato)

TERI, New Delhi Seed Production TERI has an excellent infrastructure for micro

propagation which can be used for potato seed

production for export in neighboring countries.

13.3. Execution Arrangements

CPRI and AICRP (Potato) will be responsible for carrying out the research. CPRI will also producebreeder’s seed of the required cultivars. Developmental activities will be undertaken by the relevantGovernment agencies. The main responsibility for coordination will lie with the Director CPRI. He will beadvised by the Director General (ICAR), Deputy Director General (Horticulture) ICAR, InstituteManagement Committee (IMC) and Research Advisory Committee (RAC). He will be assisted by theAssistant Director General (Vegetable Crops), ICAR, Heads of Divisions of the Institute, Heads of theRegional Research Stations and Staff Research Council (SRC). The Project Coordinator, AICRP (Potato)will be responsible for coordination of research undertaken by AICRP.

14. CRITICAL INPUTS

14.1. Funds

The minimum funds required for executing the research programmes of CPRI and AICRP (Potato)have already been discussed earlier i.e. a requirement of Rs. 72426 lakhs during the period upto 2024-2025. The funds are mainly required for developing and strengthening research infrastructure at theheadquarters as well as at Regional Research Stations. Expenditure on contingencies is expected to increasesubstantially because of the needs of modernization and for maintenance of sophisticated equipment.

14.2. Manpower

The sanctioned strength of scientific staff for CPRI is 109. At present there are 97 scientists belongingto 20 disciplines. The institute plans to fill remaining scientists during 2005-2007. During the years 2005-07, 2008-12, 2013-20 and 2021-25, the number of superannuating scientists will be 12, 25 and 10,respectively. These superannuating positions need to be filled during respective periods to meet the targetsgiven under chapter 8. The details of manpower requirement is given in Table 23.

Under AICRP (Potato) at present there are 86 scientists and no additional scientists are requiredupto 2025 except filling of posts in lieu of superannuation of scientists.

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15. REVENUE GENERATION DURING THE PERIOD 2005-2025

Presently CPRI is generating revenue through training/consultancy, funds received under externally fundedschemes and sale of farm produce including breeders’ seed under Revolving Fund Scheme. The institute plans togenerate Rs. 1015 Lakhs, Rs. 1725 Lakhs, Rs. 2840 Lakhs and Rs. 4665 Lakhs during 2005-07, 2008-12,2013-20 and 2021-25, respectively through above means. Details of revenue generation are given in Table 24.

Table 24: Tentative revenue generation by CPRI from 2005- 2025 Rs. in Lakhs

Item 2005-07 2008-12 2013-20 2021-25 Total

Training/Consultancies 15.00 25.00 40.00 65.00 145.00Externally funded schemes 300.00 500.00 800.00 1300.00 2900.00Sale of farm produce 700.00 1200.00 2000.00 3300.00 7200.00(including breeders’seed under RFS)Total 1015.00 1725.00 2840.00 4665.00 10245.00

Table 23: Manpower requirement at CPRI upto 2025

Discipline Scientists in Additional Additional Additional Additionalposition required required required required

(2005-07) (2008-12) (2013-20) (2021-2025)

Agronomy 12 1 (1 + 0) 1 (1 + 0) 2 (2 + 0) 1Ag. Entomology 5 1 (1 + 0) 2 (2 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 1Ag. Economics 3 1 (0 + 1) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Ag. Statistics 1 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Comp. Application 2 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Ag. Extension 4 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Ag. Engg.(FM & P) 3 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 1 (1 + 0) 1Ag. Chemistry 1 1 (0 + 1) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Biochemistry 3 1 (0 + 1) 2 (1 + 1) 0 (0 + 0) 1Biotechnology 4 2 (0 + 2) 2 (0 + 2) 1 (0 + 1) 0Gen. & Cytogenetics 4 1 (1 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 1 (1 + 0) 1Horticulture 5 1 (1 + 0) 2 (2 + 0) 1 (1 + 0) 1Microbiology 0 1 (0 + 1) 1 (0 + 1) 1 (0 + 1) 0Nematology 2 0 (0 + 0) 2 (2 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Plant Breeding 13 2 (1 + 1) 6 (6 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Plant Physiology 4 2 (2 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 1Soil Science 7 1 (1 + 0) 2 (2 + 0) 2 (2 + 0) 1Soil Physics. 1 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Seed Tech. 6 0 (0 + 0) 1 (1 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Food Sci. & Technology 1 3 (1 + 2) 2 (0 + 2) 1 (0 + 1) 1Plant Pathology 16 6 (3 + 3) 11 (8 + 3) 4 (3 + 1) 0Environmental Science 0 1 (0 + 1) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 0Agro-meteorology 0 1 (0 + 1) 0 (0 + 0) 0 (0 + 0) 1Total 97 26 (12*+14**) 34 (25*+9**) 14 (10*+4**) 10

* No. of scientists likely to superannuate & posts required to be filled in lieu of their superannuation.**Additional requirement

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16. HRD PLAN OF CPRI FOR THE PERIOD 2005-2025

HRD is an important instrument to improve efficiency and capabilities of scientific manpower. Theinstitute plans to give high priority to this aspect and train CPRI scientists in emerging frontier areas ofpotato research. Training of scientists in national laboratories may not be difficult and can be managedwithin funds allotted to the institute. Training in foreign laboratories is, however, likely to involve considerablefinances, which the institute hopes to get from the ICAR/DARE. The details of HRD in foreign laboratoriesare given in Table 25.

Table 25: HRD Plan for CPRI scientists

Area of HRD No. of persons Organization where HRD is suggested Countryto be trained

Integrated nutrient and 2 Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) Thailandwater management

Crop modeling and 1 Alternate Crops and Systems Laboratory, USAsimulation USDA, Beltsville

Drought resistance 1 Centre for Agro-biological Research (CABO),the Netherlands, Wageningen

Late blight forecasting 3 Cornell University, Ithaca, New York USALate blight breeding

Programmed cell death 1 Horticulture Research International, Warwick UK

Social Science 4 International Potato Centre, Lima Peru(Economics, researchpriorities, extension etc.)

Molecular aspects of 1 Max-Plank-Institute for Plant Breeding FRGvirus resistance Research, W-5000 Koln 30

Antibiotic resistance 1 Salisbury Research Laboratory UKfree marker system

Germplasm management 1 Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI), UK

Genomics 2 TIGR USA

Cryopreservation of 1 University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Min. USAgermplasm

Remote sensing and GIS 1 University of Quebec Canada

International trade in potato 1 University of Reading, Reading UK

Molecular aspects of late 1 University of Wisconsin USAblight management

Functional genomics 1 Wageningen Agricultural University,the Netherlands, Wageningen

Heat tolerance 1 Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot Israel

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17. RISK ANALYSIS

The activities as envisaged above do not involve any major risk. There is of course ever present riskof accidental introduction into the country of an exotic pest or pathogen. Such introductions have occurredin the past. The cyst nematodes in the Nilgiri hills and the wart disease of Darjeeling hills are examples thatwe still live with. They can occur in the future if we relax our quarantine procedures in the name of liberalizationof commerce.

The potato is a risk prone crop primarily due to its high susceptibility to biotic stresses. The longer thecrop duration, the higher is the risk. This risk is sought to be minimized by development of short durationcultivars.

Potatoes are bulky and semi-perishable. Therefore, the sustainability of its increased production inthe future is linked with continued increases in storage capacity, processing, efficient transportation, exportand efficient marketing systems.

The risk of environmental degradation from the cultivation of potatoes is negligible. There is a smallrisk of residual toxicity from agrochemicals applied to the crop, to the seed crop in particular. However,this risk is likely to taper off with the continuing switch over to less harmful chemicals and minimization ofthe use of chemicals. As far as rDNA research is concerned, it would be necessary to pursue this kind ofresearch strictly in accordance with the regulatory guidelines.

There is also the theoretical risk of the whole potato R&D programme failing to achieve its statedobjectives or not even coming close to achieving them. But past experience does not support such aprognosis.

18. REVIEW

Central Potato Research Institute is a premier research institute under ICAR and exclusively workingon the potato as per mandate set by the Council. The Institute critically analyzed the strength, weakness,opportunities and threats (SWOT) of potato in India and had identified priority areas for potato researchand development so as to achieve the target of 49 millions tones potato set by the planning commissionby the year 2020. To achieve this target, it need multidisciplinary approach and accordingly researchis being carried out under 21 research programmes involving scientists from Crop Improvement,Crop Production, Plant Protection, Crop Physiology and PHT, Seed Technology and Social Sciences.The technologies developed are retested at Institute’s regional stations and also under AICRP potatocentres spread over different agro climatic regions in the country before final recommendations aremade.

The results from programmes are presented by the programme leaders before Research AdvisoryCommittee (RAC) at its annual meeting and the suggestions made by the subject experts are discussed inannual Institute Research Council (IRC) chaired by the Director. After deliberations among the scientistsfrom Headquarter and Research station and results achieved as per programme’s objectives and targetsset, course corrections if necessary are made in the programmme so as to strengthen the activities wherevernecessary. The overall progress under the various programmmes are further reviewed onec in five year andevaluated by QRT’s appointed by the ICAR.

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19. RESOURCE GENERATION

IXth Plan

Detail 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 Total

1 Sale of Sale of Farm Produce 3670963 3770225 3215012 3512165 3565833 17734198

2 Rent 289349 328310 370704 413277 466985 1868625

3 Interest on Loan and Advances 79249 155869 249228 257256 447013 1188615

4 Machine & Vehicle 85000 - 202900 70300 81000 439200

5 Miscellaneous 759475 735672 553435 652593 831442 3532617

6 Leave Salary & Pension Contribution 25015 12683 - 104010 28070 169778

7 Interest on short term deposits 293151 474950 326770 335786 843086 2273743

8 Receipts from services rended by the Instt. - - 426580 - 80144 506724

9 I.RGS 1012877 - - - - 1012877

TOTAL 6215079 5477709 5344629 5345387 6343573 28726377

Xth Plan

Detail 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 Total

1 Sale of Sale of Farm Produce 4245428 4027544 4195000 9816145 4224170 26508287

2 Rent 491855 485185 536723 503332 515600 2532695

3 Interest on Loan and Advances 373257 202954 462074 716040 884246 2638571

4 Machine & Vehicle 198250 83556 124250 216500 101000 723556

5 Miscellaneous 836470 1187051 1195456 1197789 1760512 6177278

6 Leave Salary & Pension Contribution 13545 36920 - 161801 109694 321960

7 Interest on short term deposits 453510 662007 721333 - - 1836850

8 Receipts from services rended by the Instt. 555357 129717 263900 1472744 3050 2424768

9 IRGS - 351900 773830 1002077 7418708 9546515

TOTAL 7167672 7166834 8272566 15086428 15016980 52710480

Xth Plan

Item of activity Funding 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Totalagency

Training/ConsultanciesExpected revenue generation - 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 25.00from Trainings/consultancies

Externally funded schemesNetwork project on Molecular AP Cess Contd. - - - - 16.90breeding

Network project on diagnostic AP Cess Contd. - - - - 14.40of emerging plant viruses

Evaluation, characterization & AP Cess Contd. - - - - 20.80formulation developments offungal diseases & sproutingin Potato

Biotechnological approaches DBT Contd. Contd. - - - 27.00for reduction of cold inducedsweetening

Study on current status of TIFAC Contd. - - - - 2.53potato production

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20. OUTPUT

Though potato was introduced in India during 17th century, it remained an insignificant crop tillindependence. It gradually emerged as a profitable food crop as a consequence of sustained researcheffort of Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), established in the year 1949. During last 58 years,CPRI developed an array of high-impact technologies that shifted potato cultivation from cooler temperateclimate in the hills to sub-tropical climate of vast Indo-Gangentic plains. Today, more than 90% potatoarea belongs to sub-tropical climate. It became possible only due to development of appropriate technologiesby CPRI. The most important output of CPRI so far, is the development of 42 high yielding indigenousvarieties including 4 processing varieties and 1 heat-tolerant variety suitable for growing under differentagro-climatic conditions. Other major outputs with very high impact are: (i) the “Seed Plot Technique”which made it possible to carry out disease free seed production in the plains and established a nationaldisease-free seed production programme for hills and plains, utilizing the low aphid periods identified in theplains, (ii) the “Breeder’s Seed Production Programme” that ensured availability of quality planting materials,(iii) the “True Potato Seed (TPS) Technology” for production of low cost planting materials, (iv) the“Package of Practices” for cultivation of ware and seed potato in different agro-climatic conditions, (v)identification of profitable potato-based cropping systems in different agro-climates, including inter-croppingof the potato with sugarcane and wheat, (vi) development of agricultural implements for mechanizingpotato cultivation, including an oscillating tray type potato grader, fertilizer applicator-cum-line marker,potato culti-ridger, soil crust brakers, granular insecticide applicator, two/four row automatic potato planter,and potato digger, (vii) development of integrated package of practices for management of late blight,bacterial wilt, viruses and soil and tuber-borne diseases, (viii) development of sensitive virus detectiontechniques, (ix) development of strategies for restricting spread of wart disease and cyst nematode byeffective quarantine, (x) development of techniques for storage of potato at elevated temperature and on-farm storage structures, (xi) standardization of tissue culture techniques for micro-propagation, in vitromicro-tuber production and rapid multiplication, (xi) generation of DNA fingerprints of all released varietiesand advance hybried and (xii) development of transgenics with enhanced late blight resistance, reducedcold-induced sweetening and improved nutritional quality. The institute has critically analyzed the gaps andfuture thrust areas in potato research. Accordingly, research would be intensified during next two decadesin the identified areas. Projected outputs in terms of technology generation by 2025 is given below.

• Remote sensing and GIS to identify potential new areas and cropping system for increasing area underpotato.

• Diversify cultivation of potato as kharif crop in plateau region.

• Development of short duration potato varieties.

• Identification of heat tolerant potato hybrids for south India.

• Identify new hybrids with attributes of processing quality.

• Develop package of practices and varieties for new areas.

• Identify hybrid TPS populations giving better survival and plant vigour in transplanted seedlings.

• Incorporate potato in different cropping systems.

• Development of nutrient efficient potato varieties.

• Rescheduling of planting dates keeping in view global climate change.

• Encouraging micro-irrigation schemes.

• Identification of areas suitable for producing quality tuber seed in collaboration with the state departmentsof agriculture/horticulture/extension services & state agriculture universities.

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• Encouraging TPS as alternative for producing quality planting material in NEH region.

• Integration of micro-propagation techniques for quality seed production.

• Production of 100% breeder seed from tissue culture raised and virus free nucleus materials.

• Strengthen the quality tuber seed production in seed deficit potato growing regions.

• Need based spray schedule for late blight management.

• Targeted improvement of late blight resistance by genetic engineering.

• Refinement and popularisation of IDM for soil and tuber borne diseases.

• IPM for emerging pests like white fly and stem necrosis.

• Targeted improvement of processing quality by genetic engineering.

• Encouraging intermediate temperature (10-12 °C) storage and improvised on-farm storage.

• Encouraging gamma irradiation to increase shelf life.

• Post harvest processing and value addition.

• Increasing potato processing to at least 10% of the total produce.

• Increasing domestic consumption and export.

The Intellectual Property and Technology portfolio of CPRI includes 42 high yielding potato cultivars,3 TPS populations, 8 registered germplasm, designs of several agricultural implements, 3 computer softwares,number of digital databases, and more than 20 profitable technology packages (See the box). Protectingor patenting research output was not a preferred practice in CPRI so far. Even then, three innovations havebeen chosen for patent protection. The technologies generated at CPRI are being used for ContractResearch, Contract Services, and Advisory Consultancy, etc. in addition to allowing free access to farmersand general public.

The IP regime of ICAR and its constituent institutes are poised for a major shift as a consequence ofTRIPS Agreement of WTO. Under this agreement, the member countries of WTO (including India) areobliged to provide intellectual property rights (IPR) in one form or the other in all fields of technology,including agriculture. It has been recognized that research in frontier sciences, such as agri-biotechnologywill require intellectual property (IP) protection through patents, plant variety protection and other forms ofIPR. Public-private partnerships will play an increasing role in the advancement of agricultural researchunder the new IPR regime. The transfer of IPR enabled agricultural technologies through commercial routewill gain greater importance. In response to the changing scenario of technology generation and dissemination,ICAR has developed a policy framework that will guide the management of IP created by its scientists/innovators at its institutions. In compliance to the guidelines, CPRI has constituted its Institute TechnologyManagement Committee (ITMC) chaired by the Director. The committee would be responsible forformulating an appropriate strategy for ensuring protection and commercialization of innovations made bythe staff of the institute. Effort will be made to substantiate resource generation of the institute bycommercializing its intellectual properties.

Scientists of the institute contributed a large number of articles in Indian, foreign journals as well as inproceedings. They also brought out several topical books, contemporary popular articles, review articlesin English and vernacular languages and also contributed chapters in edited books of Indian and foreignpublishers. Besides, the institute also brought out a large number of technical and extension bulletins,manuals, etc. for scientific and farming community. The institute would continue to encourage its scientiststo publish their research findings in reputed foreign journals after securing IP protection, if any. Wherever

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CPRI would decide not to apply for IPR protection, efforts will be made to quickly publish the researchresults and thereby bring the information/knowledge into public domain. This will also be done throughdigitalization of the publications creating widely accessible prior art so that any unacknowledged use of thepublic domain information is forestalled.

Intellectual Property and Technology Portfolio of CPRI

Varieties & Germplasm

• Released 42 high yielding cultivars for different agro-climatic zones.

• Developed 3 TPS population.

• Registered 8 germplasm materials.

Computer Softwares

• Var Track- a computer software for identifying Indian Potato cultivars based onmorphological and microsatellite database.

• ivCMS Version 2.0: A computer program for in vitro germplasm conservation management.

• INFOCROP-POTATO: A Simulation model

Technologies

• Seed Plot Technique.

• TPS production under short days.

• Raising of seedling transplants crop from TPS.

• Seedling tuber production from TPS.

• Micro-tuber production technology.

• Semi-automated potato DNA Genotyping.

• Immunodiagnostic kits and immune electron microscopy for detection and identificationf common potato viruses.

• Nucleic acid based diagnostics of potato viruses.

• Use of a fungal bioagents for the control of black scurf disease of potato.

• Soil solarization for control of soil-borne diseases of potato.

• Control of tuber-borne diseases with boric acid treatment.

• Integrated management of bacterial wilt.

• Evaporatively cooled potato store.

• Storage of potatoes meant for processing at 10-12ºC with CIPC treatment.

• Heap storage of potato.

• Potato custard powder.

• Potato seed production.

Patents• Automated Hydroponic System for Potato Microtuber Production in vitro. (824/DEL/2001).

• Biofertilizer-cum-Biofungicide/Biobactericide composition B5. (3456/DEL/2005A)

• Gashemin DNA Agarose Plug Insert Device and Driver for Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis.(255/DEL/2001).

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21. OUTCOME

Potato research in India paid a rich dividend during last six decades. Technologies generated by CPRItriggered a revolution in potato production causing very fast growth in area, production and productivity.Potato production jumped from 1.54 million metric ton (MT) in the year 1949-50 to 24.22 million MTduring 1996-97, thus making India the third largest potato producer in the world after China and Russia.However, potato yield in India is better than the first two countries, i.e. China and Russia.

Agriculture contributes about 25% of India’s GDP. A major share of agricultural output is contributedby cereals and other grain crops. Potato contributes about 2.0% of the total agricultural output. This is asignificant contribution considering the fact that potato is cultivated in only 0.67% of the total croppedarea. In comparison, wheat and paddy contributes about 12.6% from 13.8% area and 22.4% from 24.1%area respectively. The average ratio of per cent value output to the per cent cropped area for potato,wheat and paddy during the period 1978-79 to 1995-96 were 3.3:1, 0.92:1 and 0.96:1, respectively. Thisindicates that potato contributes about 3.5 times more than both wheat and paddy from unit area to thenational economy in agricultural sub-sector. Production of breeder’s seed is a major activity of the institute.At least US$ 500 million of foreign exchange is being saved every year due to availability of good qualityindigenous seed through the institute.

Potato research in India has always been a highly cost effective venture. For example, total outlay onR&D of potato during 1998-99 was about Rs. 100.00 million, which was only 0.17% of potato’s contributionto the national economy. During 10th plan period, the total outlay for the scheme was Rs. 1,291 million,while potato contributed at least Rs. 100 billion annually to the economy. However, only 0.26% of thepotato’s contribution to national economy was invested in R&D of this crop.

“India Vision 2020” prepared by the Planning Commission, Govt. of India projected a scenario inwhich the future agricultural sector would be “A vibrant, highly productive commercial farm sectorthat can ensure food & nutritional security, generate employment opportunities, stimulateindustrialization, and produce renewable energy from biomass and fuel crops”. CPRI will strive tofulfill that projected outcome in letter and spirit. Fortunately, the potato crop has all the virtues to meet theprojected aspirations. It is a highly productive crop that can fit into the requirements of emerging farmsector. Potato processing sector is currently in a high growth path giving a fillip to agri-business. Potatowaste can also be an alternative for producing bio-fuels. Potato will be an ideal candidate for cropdiversification. It is a labour-intensive crop and contributes significantly to employment generation in therural economy. Potato requires an input of 250 man-days for cultivation of one hectare area. Currently,potato is being cultivated in an area of 1.4 million ha annually, thereby creating 0.35 billion man-days ofrural employment every year. Moreover, women labourers have an edge over men in potato cultivation.They are preferred for planting, harvesting, and grading operations. Besides, about 90 percent of potatoprocessing in India is done in the unorganized sector, which provides employment to a large number ofrural women.

CPRI has chalked out a future R&D strategy as illustrated in this perspective plan. These activities arelikely to make potato cultivation economically, technologically, socially and environmentally sustainable inthe country. The export-oriented research is also likely to open new avenues for promoting potato exportfrom the country. The likely outcome of the R&D efforts would be as follows.

• Increase in potato area and production (52 million metric ton from 1.8 million ha area).

• Production of 100% nucleus seed material of potato through tissue culture and ensuring truthfullylabeled seed material to farmers.

• Availability of heat tolerant, short duration, and processing grade potato varieties.

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• Application of biotechnology to solve chronic problem in potato farming.

• Availability of entire potato genome sequence data and identification of genes controlling late blighthorizontal resistance and tuberization through functional genomics.

• Knowledge based potato farming to avoid gluts and economic loss.

• Precision farming of potato extending farm sustainability.

• Post-harvest processing of at least 10% potato produce by organized sector.

• Year-round utilization of potato.

• Management of crop losses due to biotic stresses in ecologically sustainable manner.

• Improvement of potato productivity in North-eastern states.

• Efficient transfer of modern technologies to farmers.