The Revolving Fund Seed Management Committee (RFSMC) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) has approved the resumption of tissue culture-based multiplication of the widely cultivated potato variety 'Kufri Bahar'. This decision is expected to significantly boost India's potato seed production system.
Importance for Uttar Pradesh
The move is particularly important for Uttar Pradesh, where 'Kufri Bahar' is grown in more than 70% of the potato cultivation area. Experts believe that this initiative will strengthen the potato seed supply chain and accelerate seed multiplication, ensuring timely availability of quality seeds for farmers.
Meeting and Leadership
The decision was taken during the annual RFSMC meeting for 2026-27 held at the institute in Shimla on Monday. The meeting was chaired by CPRI director Dr Brajesh Singh, who described the move as a significant step towards strengthening the availability of quality potato seeds for farmers across the country. He stated that the decision was made in response to the growing demand from farmers for high-quality planting material.
Tissue Culture Technology
Dr Singh explained that tissue culture technology enables rapid multiplication of disease-free and superior-quality seed material, making the seed production process faster and more efficient. The initiative is expected to significantly improve the timely supply of quality seeds to farmers and enhance overall crop productivity.
Review of Regional Centres
The meeting also reviewed progress and challenges at the CPRI regional centres located in Modipuram, Gwalior, Jalandhar, Patna, Kufri-Fagu, Ooty, and Shillong. Discussions were held on potential opportunities to strengthen the potato seed production network. The committee's approval marks a key milestone in ensuring sustainable potato cultivation in India.
