The Union Cabinet has sanctioned the creation of an international potato research center in Agra

A worldwide research institution affiliated with CGIAR, located in Peru, focusing on potato, sweet potato, and Andean tubers.

Founded in 1971, it commenced operations in India in 1975 through collaboration with ICAR.

CIP Network: Operational throughout South America, Africa, and Asia.

Sede: Lima, Perú.

Regarding the CIP-South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC):

Place: Singna, Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Budget: ₹171 crore (India – ₹111.5 crore; CIP – ₹60 crore).

Area Covered: India and adjacent South Asian nations.

Goals of CSARC:

• Enhance the yield of potatoes and sweet potatoes by utilizing superior seeds.
• Improve farmer earnings through processing, value enhancement, and export.
• Guarantee food and nutrition safety in regions vulnerable to climate change.
• Create varieties that are resistant to climate change and free from diseases.

Roles of CSARC:

Seed Innovation: Obtain worldwide potato genetic resources for improved production.

Climate Study: Create potato varieties that can withstand high temperatures and lack of water.

Post-Harvest Technology: Facilitate advancements in storage, processing, and packaging.

Farmer Assistance: Educate Indian and South Asian farmers on optimal methods.

Market Connection: Enhance local value chains and export capabilities.

Importance for India:

• Second-Largest Producer: India generated 51.3 million tonnes (2020).
• Yield Gap: Average in India – 25 tonnes/ha and potential – 50 tonnes/ha.
• Seed Autonomy: Decreases reliance on seed imports from neighboring countries.
• Increase in Agricultural Exports: Improves ability to export processed goods.
• R&D Growth: Following IRRI-VNS, this is India's second global Agri center.

India and the Potato:

Global Rank: India ranks 2nd in production, behind China (78 MT).

Leading States: UP (15 MT), WB (15 MT), Bihar (9 MT).