Advancing Potato Cultivation: CPRI’s Seed Solutions.
Introduction to Breeder and Foundation Potato Seeds from CPRI
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI) plays a crucial role in developing and distributing high-quality potato seeds in India. Two key types of seeds produced by CPRI are breeder seeds and foundation seeds, which form the backbone of the potato seed production chain.
What are Breeder Seeds?
Breeder seeds are the purest form of seeds, developed by plant breeders at CPRI to maintain the genetic integrity of a particular potato variety. These seeds are produced under strict supervision to ensure they possess the desired traits of the variety.
What are Foundation Seeds?
Foundation seeds are the direct descendants of breeder seeds. They are produced under controlled conditions to maintain genetic purity and are used to produce certified seeds for commercial farming. CPRI supplies these to various State Government Organizations for further multiplication.
Importance of CPRI’s Breeder and Foundation Potato Seeds
- Ensure genetic purity and varietal integrity
- Provide disease-free planting material
- Contribute to higher yield potential
- Offer improved resistance to pests and diseases
- Enhance adaptability to specific environmental conditions
- Ensure consistency in crop quality
- Contribute to the overall improvement of potato production in India
CPRI’s Seed Production Technologies
CPRI employs both conventional and high-tech seed production systems:
Conventional Seed Plot Technique
This technique has been used successfully for five decades. It involves tuber indexing for major viruses and clonal multiplication of virus-free mother tubers in four cycles for breeder seed production.
High-Tech Production Systems
To address the shortage of quality seed potatoes, CPRI has standardized several high-tech production systems based on tissue culture and micropropagation technologies. These systems improve seed quality, enhance multiplication rates, and reduce field exposure time.
Aeroponic Technology
The latest innovation is the soil-less aeroponic technology, which has the potential to revolutionize the potato seed sector. This system has been commercialized to multiple firms across different states.
Current Seed Production by ICAR-CPRI
CPRI produces approximately 3,187 metric tonnes of nucleus and breeder seed of 25 popular potato varieties annually. 70% of this production is through the conventional system, while 30% is through high-tech systems.
Process for Obtaining CPRI’s Potato Seeds
Farmers can procure these high-quality seeds through the following process:
- Submit a Demand Letter: Visit the District Horticulture Office and submit a demand letter specifying the variety and quantity of seeds required.
- Provide Necessary Documents: Submit documents such as Khatauni (land ownership record) and Aadhar Card to verify identity and eligibility.
- Department Processing: The Horticulture and Food Processing Department processes these demand letters and forwards them to ensure seed availability.
- Seed Distribution: Once approved, seeds are made available to farmers at subsidized rates, making potato farming more economical.
Future Directions
To increase breeder seed production, CPRI is exploring more collaborations with State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and private farmers. These partnerships aim to identify new areas for seed production, multiply breeder seeds into subsequent generations, and produce seeds through hi-tech systems with the help of entrepreneurs and private companies.
CPRI’s breeder and foundation potato seeds are vital for maintaining the quality and productivity of potato crops in India. By combining traditional methods with advanced technologies, CPRI is addressing the growing demand for high-quality potato seeds. This approach not only ensures better seed quality but also contributes to increased potato production and farmer profitability across the country.
