The International Potato Center (CIP) in collaboration with the Sardar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) along with Department of Horticulture, Haryana is set to host a pivotal “Potato Field Day” on February 20th, 2025, at the Siddhi farm near Mansadevi cold storage, Bhiladi highway, Lorvada, Deesa. This event promises to be a significant congregation of farmers, researchers, and stakeholders focused on enhancing potato cultivation practices, with a particular emphasis on seed quality and innovation.
Under the esteemed chairpersonship of Dr. C M Muralidharan, Director of Research and Dean PG Studies, SDAU, and moderated by Dr. Mohinder S Kadian (CIP), the field day aims to address critical issues faced by potato farmers in the region. Ms. Deepa Rani (CIP), the coordinator of the event, has outlined a comprehensive program designed to foster knowledge sharing and interactive discussions.
The day’s proceedings will commence with registration at 10:00 AM, followed by a welcome note by Dr. D.G. Patel, ARS, PRS Deesa, SDAU, Dantiwada. Dr. M.S. Kadian (CIP) will then outline the objectives of the field day, setting the stage for a series of insightful lectures.
The technical sessions will begin with Dr. Kadian sharing his expertise on seed production in Haryana, followed by Dr. Pooja Pandey’s insights into the processing and table potato future in Gujarat. Dr. D.G. Patel will delve into the crucial aspects of seed quality and the challenges in potato production. Ms. Deepa Rani will then present the potato seed quality check initiatives in Haryana and discuss the performance of various potato varieties demonstrated in Deesa. Notably, Department of Horticulture, Haryana is playing a pivotal role in this excercise
Program Agenda
A key highlight of the event will be the dedicated “Farmer discussion and interaction” session. This segment will provide a platform for farmers from Haryana and Gujarat to voice their concerns and share experiences regarding seed availability, quality, and their specific demands and expectations. This interactive dialogue is expected to generate valuable feedback and contribute to the development of farmer-centric solutions.
Following the interactive session, Mr. Sandeep Saini and Mr. Rohan Saini will share their firsthand experience from the demonstration field, offering practical insights into the cultivation practices and the performance of showcased varieties. Dr. CM Muralidharan will then share his special remarks, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing potato agriculture. The day will conclude with closing remarks by Dr. MS Kadian, summarizing the key takeaways and charting a course for future initiatives.
This Potato Field Day is not just an event; it’s a platform for collaboration, learning, and empowerment. By bringing together key stakeholders, CIP, SDAU and Department of Horticulture, Haryana aim to catalyze advancements in potato cultivation, ensuring higher yields, better quality, and ultimately, improved livelihoods for potato farmers in Gujarat and beyond. The focus on seed quality, new varieties, and farmer-centric discussions underscores the commitment to sustainable growth and innovation in the potato sector.
With its well-structured program and focus on addressing real-world challenges, the Potato Field Day at Deesa is poised to make a significant contribution to the future of potato farming, cultivating progress and prosperity for all involved. The event serves as a timely reminder of the critical role of agriculture in driving economic growth and ensuring food security, highlighting the importance of continuous improvement and collaborative partnerships in the sector.
