🥔 Union Cabinet Approves Global Potato Research Center in Agra: Here’s Why It Matters
In a major boost to India’s agricultural research and innovation capabilities, the Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of a Global Potato Research Center in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative is in collaboration with the International Potato Center (CIP) based in Lima, Peru, and aims to strengthen India’s position as a key hub for potato research and development.
🌐 What is the Global Potato Research Center?
The center will function as an international hub for:
Developing climate-resilient potato varieties
Enhancing potato yields and nutritional quality
Promoting disease resistance and seed quality
Supporting smallholder farmers and sustainable agriculture
This marks India’s first international potato R&D center and reinforces its global leadership in potato cultivation.
📍 Why Agra?
Agra was chosen due to:
Its proximity to major potato-growing regions in North India
Existing infrastructure and agri-research ecosystem
Strong farming community engaged in potato cultivation
📈 Significance of the Center
Empowers Indian farmers with better potato varieties
Boosts India's agri-export potential in processed and raw potatoes
Promotes food security and nutrition through enhanced research
Attracts international collaborations and investments
Generates local employment and builds skilled manpower
🤝 Global Collaboration with CIP
The International Potato Center (CIP) will partner in:
Sharing global research
Providing training and capacity building
Running joint projects for bio-fortified potatoes and sustainable agriculture
❓ FAQ: Global Potato Research Center in Agra
Q1. What is the purpose of the Global Potato Research Center in Agra?
It aims to boost research in potato breeding, improve productivity, and create resilient and nutritional varieties suited for Indian conditions.
Q2. Who is setting up the center?
The project is a collaboration between the Government of India and the International Potato Center (CIP), Peru.
Q3. Why is Agra significant for this project?
Agra lies in a major potato-growing belt and has favorable climatic and logistical conditions for research and development.
Q4. How will this benefit Indian farmers?
It will provide access to disease-resistant and climate-adapted potato varieties, increasing income and reducing crop losses.
Q5. Is this part of a larger agricultural strategy?
Yes, it aligns with the government’s mission to promote agri-research, innovation, and sustainable farming practices under its Vision 2047.
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Reported by Benny on June 26, 2025.
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