A team of agricultural scientists recently conducted a significant inspection of ongoing potato trials in Kanpur, offering valuable insights and recommendations to bolster local farming practices. The visit, aimed at assessing advanced agricultural research, took place at the vegetable science department centre of the Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology (CSA University).
Expert Team Assesses Potato Research Trials
The inspection was carried out by a three-member expert team constituted by the prestigious Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) based in Shimla. The delegation included Keshav Arya from Kanpur, RK Singh from the Regional Potato Research Institute in Meerut, and CN Ram from the Agriculture University in Kumarganj, Ayodhya. Their mission was to evaluate comprehensive trials spanning critical areas of potato farming.
The scientists examined trials related to three core pillars: crop production, crop improvement, and crop protection. Their focus was not just on yield but on sustainable and resilient farming methodologies suitable for the region.
Focus on Combating Destructive Potato Diseases
A major part of the inspection involved a close analysis of prevalent potato diseases that threaten farmer livelihoods. The team meticulously studied blight disease and phoma disease. The latter is colloquially referred to as "parpara" by local farmers, highlighting its common and damaging presence in their fields.
Moving from diagnosis to solution, the scientists provided actionable guidance on managing these pathogens. They recommended a specific chemical intervention: spraying a mixture of Azoxystrobin and Tebuconazole at a concentration of 1 ml per litre of water. This fungicide combination is known for its effectiveness against a spectrum of fungal diseases.
Sustainable Practices and Farmer Appreciation
Beyond immediate chemical control, the experts emphasized the importance of long-term, cultural practices for disease management. They strongly advocated for the adoption of crop rotation, a time-tested method to break disease cycles and improve soil health, which farmers found particularly helpful.
The visiting team expressed considerable enthusiasm about the quality and scope of the research being conducted at the CSA University centre. All members appreciated the trials, acknowledging the centre's role in advancing potato cultivation techniques that directly benefit the agricultural community in and around Kanpur. This collaborative effort between national institutes and university research centres is pivotal for translating laboratory findings into real-world farming success.
