Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India

Although, India contributes about 7.6% to the total potato production in the world, the per capita consumption in the country is much less than many of the countries. Less than 1% of the produce is processed in the country and our export share in the world potato trade in 0.45%.

In view of this, The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has identified a new hybrid variety ‘Kufri Chipsona-3’of potato for release. The variety is nutritionally superior because of higher protein, potassium and calcium content and is suitable even for people with high blood pressure. It has higher dry matter yields than other existing varieties, making it highly suitable for preparing dehydrated products too. Because of these characteristics, Chipsona-3 can be used both for processing (chips and flakes) as well as table purposes. With higher dry matter content, the farmer will have an option to sell the produce the chipping industry or flake industry or in ware market depending upon the demand and profitability.

Another new hybrid variety ‘Kufri Himalini’ has been identified by ICAR for commercial cultivation in hilly regions. In this region, late blight in potato crop has become more frequent and intense in last few years. To overcome this, the new hybrid variety has been developed which has higher level of resistance to late blight. It has medium maturity of 110-120 days and is also adapted to sub-tropical plains, which is an additional feature of this hybrid.

Courtesy: The Hindu, dated 29 September, 2005
For more information connect : www.icar.org.in