#PotatoFarming #AgriculturalInnovations #Collaborations #CropProductivity #FoodSecurity #SustainableAgriculture #FarmersEmpowerment #ResearchScientists #InternationalPotatoCenter #Odisha
Potato farming plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and income generation for farmers in Odisha, India. Over the years, advancements in technology and collaborative efforts have revolutionized the potato cultivation practices in the region. This article explores the journey of potato cultivation in Odisha, highlighting the significant contributions of key individuals such as Sampriti Baruah, Regional Research Scientist at the International Potato Center (CIP), and Samarendu Mohanty, Asia Regional Director at CIP.
Potato Picking by SFLF Farmer in Odisha after Mechanical Digger:
One of the notable advancements in potato farming in Odisha is the adoption of mechanical diggers for harvesting. Previously, farmers had to rely on manual labor for potato picking, which was time-consuming and labor-intensive. With the introduction of mechanical diggers, farmers can now save time and effort, allowing them to focus on other essential farming activities. This innovation has significantly improved efficiency and productivity in potato harvesting.
ARC G0 Production in Net House and G1 Production in Open Field in Odisha:
To ensure disease-free potato seeds, the use of net houses for ARC G0 production has gained popularity in Odisha. Net houses provide a controlled environment that protects potato plants from pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions. Moreover, the production of G1 seeds in open fields has expanded the availability of quality potato seeds, enabling farmers to achieve better yields and improved crop health.
Grading of Potato Seeds at Potato Technology Center, Haryana:
To ensure the quality of potato seeds, the Potato Technology Center in Haryana plays a vital role. Here, seeds are carefully graded and categorized based on their quality and characteristics. The center employs advanced techniques and stringent quality control measures to ensure that farmers receive high-quality seeds for optimal yields and disease resistance.
Introduction of Planters in SFLF Farmers Field in Koraput, Odisha:
In collaboration with research institutions and agricultural experts like Sampriti Baruah, SFLF farmers in Koraput, Odisha, have adopted modern planting techniques. The introduction of planters has enabled efficient and uniform planting, saving labor and ensuring proper seed placement. This technological intervention has contributed to improved crop establishment and overall productivity.
CIP Line, Yusi Maap (Kufri Uday) in Farmers Field:
The introduction of the CIP line, specifically the Yusi Maap (Kufri Uday) variety, has proved to be a game-changer for potato farmers in Odisha. This high-yielding and disease-resistant variety has significantly enhanced farmers’ incomes and food security. Collaborative efforts between researchers like Samarendu Mohanty and farmers have facilitated the widespread adoption of this variety, transforming potato cultivation in the region.
ARC Production in Private Nursery in Hassan, Karnataka:
Private nurseries in Hassan, Karnataka, have played a crucial role in multiplying and distributing ARC (Advanced Research Center) potato varieties. These nurseries follow strict quality control measures to ensure that disease-free and high-quality seedlings reach farmers in Odisha. The collaboration between different regions has facilitated the availability of diverse potato varieties, promoting sustainable potato production.
ARC Multiplication in Meghalaya:
Meghalaya has emerged as a significant hub for ARC multiplication, supplying quality potato seeds to farmers in Odisha. The conducive climatic conditions and the expertise of local farmers have made Meghalaya an ideal location for multiplying disease-free potato seeds. The collaboration between different regions and the exchange of knowledge and resources have enhanced potato production and farm incomes.
SFLF Field in Odisha:
Small and marginal farmers in Odisha have benefited from the introduction of the System of Intensification of Potato Production for Food Security and Livelihood (SFLF) program. This program focuses on improving farm productivity and livelihoods through sustainable potato cultivation practices. It emphasizes the use of organic inputs, conservation agriculture techniques, and capacity building initiatives, empowering farmers to achieve higher yields and economic stability.
The potato cultivation landscape in Odisha has witnessed remarkable transformations due to technological advancements and collaborative efforts. Innovations such as mechanical diggers, net house production, modern planters, and the introduction of high-yielding varieties have revolutionized potato farming practices, leading to improved yields, crop health, and farmer incomes. The contributions of individuals like Sampriti Baruah and Samarendu Mohanty from the International Potato Center have been instrumental in driving these positive changes. Moving forward, it is crucial to continue supporting farmers, fostering collaborations, and disseminating knowledge to ensure the sustainable growth of potato cultivation in Odisha and beyond.
Special thanks to Samarendu Mohanty and Sampriti Baruah for providing valuable information and the photo.
