South Asia Regional Potato Research Centre

On 25th June 2025, the Union Cabinet approved a proposal by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to establish the South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) of the International Potato Centre (CIP) in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Key Points

Purpose of the Centre:The centre aims to enhance food and nutritional security, increase farmers’ incomes, and create jobs through improved productivity, post-harvest management, and value addition in potato and sweet potato cultivation.
Location and Scope:The CSARC will be located in Singna, Agra, and will play a vital role in transforming the potato sector across South Asia.
Employment Potential:India’s potato industry offers strong job-creation prospects across areas such as production, processing, packaging, transportation, marketing, and the broader agri-value chain.
Research and Innovation Hub:The centre will serve as a platform for cutting-edge research and innovation tailored to the regional needs of South Asian agriculture.
Focus Areas:CSARC will prioritise the development of high-yielding, climate-resilient, and nutrient-rich varieties of potato and sweet potato.