Agartala (
Tripura
) [India], March 29 (ANI):
Tripura
Minister for Agriculture and Farmer’s Development
Ratan Lal Nath
on Saturday attributed the “remarkable progress” in potato farming in the State to the adoption of
Apical Rooted Cutting
(ARC) technology.
The Minister likewise showcased the Chief Minister
Manik Saha
With a basket containing locally sourced potatoes, two packs of ‘Kali-Khasha’ rice, and biscuits made with millet placed on the floor of the state legislative chamber, these goods were equally handed out to every member present in the house. This included delegates affiliated with IPFT, TIPRA Motha Party, CPIM, as well as those from the Congress party.
The state has achieved notable progress in potato cultivation, and the implementation of ARC technology has resulted in higher production levels. This program will help enhance agricultural output further.
Tripura
Nath stated during the budget session at the State Legislative Assembly that enhancing the state’s self-reliance in seed production is crucial.
Potato cultivation in
Tripura
Traces its origins back to the 17th century when European merchants brought it over. Nevertheless, significant growth took place from 1940 to 1947, during which time the state embraced widespread types such as contemporary Lalit, Kufri Jyoti, and Kufri Sindhuri.
Back then, the typical output was 1,500 kilograms per kani. By 1988-89,
Tripura
made significant progress with the introduction of True Potato Seed (TPS) technology, developed at the State Horticulture Research Station in Nagicherra. This advancement boosted yields to 4,000 kg per kani.
As part of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), the state entered into an MoU with the International Potato Center (CIP) based in Lima, Peru, along with the Department of Horticulture & Soil Conservation on January 17, 2023, to deploy ARC technology.
Nath stated that this initiative intends to improve the efficiency of seed production and decrease reliance on outside suppliers.
The initiative, commencing in 2022 and set to conclude by 2025, is named ‘Enhancing Potato Seed Production.’
Apical Rooted Cutting
(ARC) Technology.’
For the initial time in the 2023-24 season,
Tripura
Implemented ARC-driven potato cultivation throughout all eight regions, engaging 104 cultivators spanning five production areas: Kufri Mohan, Kufri Lima, Kufri Himali, Kufri Uday, and Kufri Surya.
The overall ARC cultivation spanned 15.75 kani in the Sepahijala district. According to Nath, this effort has produced remarkable outcomes, with farmers experiencing notably increased yields.
In 2024-25, ARC potato cultivation will involve 402 farmers, including 40 who will receive subsidized mini-tubers from the government. Current projections show an average yield of 6,000 kilograms per hectare, which is anticipated to exceed 10,000 kilograms per hectare over the next few years. The administration continues to support certified seed production as part of their efforts to enhance profitability for farmers.
”
Tripura
“is well on track to become a major supplier of premium potato seeds and processing-grade potatoes,” Nath stated, noting that this move will bolster the economy and improve farmers’ earnings. (ANI)
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
).
