India is getting its own “Potato Lab”. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, June 25, approved the establishment of the South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) of the International Potato Centre (CIP) in Singna, Agra, Uttar Pradesh.As part of the collaboration, the Uttar Pradesh government has provided 10 hectares of land free of cost, while the Union government will invest ₹111 crore through the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
The new centre aims to strengthen research and innovation in the potato and sweet potato sectors, with a focus on high-yielding, nutrient-rich and climate-resilient varieties.
The key research areas will include seed production, integrated pest management, sustainable cultivation practices, and training for farmers.According to the government, the initiative is expected to boost food and nutrition security, increase farmer incomes, and generate employment across production, processing, packaging, marketing and logistics in the potato value chain.The centre will also contribute to post-harvest management and value addition, with an eye on strengthening India’s role in the global potato economy and fostering sustainable agricultural development across South Asia.(Edited by : Amrita)First Published: Jun 25, 2025 3:36 PM IST
