By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: At the Regional Potato Research Centre in Patna, a groundbreaking experiment is underway, using the aeroponics method to grow potatoes without soil. The centre is currently cultivating seven varieties of potatoes, including major types such as Kufri Sindoori, Kufri Manik, Kufri Lalit, Kufri Pukhraj, Kufri Khyati, and Kufri Himalini.
Details of the Experiment
- Aeroponics Method: This method involves growing plants in the air, with their roots suspended and fed with a nutrient-rich mist. The results have been remarkable, with one plant yielding between 50 and 150 potatoes, compared to the traditional method, which produces just 8 to 10 potatoes per plant. The first batch of potatoes grown using aeroponics is expected to be ready for harvest by 15th February, with an estimated total yield of 48 kg during the initial phase.
- Advanced Cloning (ARC): Alongside the aeroponics technique, the centre is employing the ARC method (Advanced Reproductive Cloning) for potato cultivation. This involves dividing a potato plant into seven to eight pieces after proper land preparation and planting them in the soil. This technique promotes healthy propagation and reduces the chances of disease, ensuring better crop yields.
Special Varieties for Chips Production
As part of the government’s initiative to develop specialised potato varieties, the centre has also planted three new varieties for commercial use:
- Kufri Chipsona: A variety specifically bred for producing chips, which is expected to meet the growing demand in the snack industry.
- Kufri Ashoka and Kufri Chandramukhi: Additional varieties introduced to expand the range of potatoes suited for various culinary uses.
National Potato Seed Production Initiative
A survey conducted across India identified locations with fewer pest problems, including aphids. As a result, Patna, Gwalior, Jalandhar, and Meerut were selected as primary centres for potato seed production. These centres collectively produce 30,000 quintals of potato seeds, with Patna contributing 1,000 quintals due to its limited land area.
Focus on Modern Cultivation Techniques
Under the leadership of Dr. Shiv Pratap Singh, the Chief Scientist at the Regional Potato Research Centre, the focus is on utilising modern agricultural methods to ensure high-quality seed production. The centre has implemented an advanced virus elimination process that uses chemo and radiation treatments to ensure that potato plants are virus-free. This treatment is similar to cancer therapies and ensures healthier plants and higher yields.
The three key methods used at the centre include:
- Tube Method: Creating controlled environmental conditions for efficient breeding and plant development.
- Aeroponics: A method that eliminates soil, using nutrient-rich mist to support plant growth and reduce disease risk.
- ARC Method: A more traditional technique, enhanced by cloning, which supports better disease resistance and more effective propagation.
Through these innovative techniques, the Regional Potato Research Centre in Patna is paving the way for more productive and disease-resistant potato cultivation. The centre’s efforts are set to make significant contributions to the potato industry, with a focus on high-yield, disease-free crops and the development of specialised varieties suited for products like chips.
