India and Tajikistan Explore Cooperation in Potato Research and Technology

India and Tajikistan are exploring new avenues of cooperation in potato research, cultivation, quality seed production, technology exchange and capacity building. The discussions took place during a virtual interaction between scientists from the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla, and representatives of LCC AKOMA, Tajikistan, with support from the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in New Delhi.

The interaction was organised under the directions of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to strengthen international scientific cooperation and promote the exchange of agricultural technologies and expertise.

Aeroponics Technology Key to Quality Seed Production

Aeroponics technology emerged as a key area of potential cooperation between the two countries. The technology enables the rapid multiplication of high-quality potato planting material and can help strengthen seed production systems. 

Dr Brajesh Singh, Director of ICAR-CPRI, highlighted the importance of aeroponics in improving the availability of quality potato seeds and supporting modern cultivation practices. Representatives from Tajikistan expressed keen interest in gaining practical exposure to the technology and its associated production methods.

Exposure Visit to CPRI Shimla Proposed

During the virtual meeting, both sides discussed a proposed exposure visit by Tajik representatives to the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute in Shimla.

The visit would provide an opportunity for the delegation to familiarise itself with the institute's advanced research facilities, aeroponics-based seed production systems, potato crop management practices and other innovative agricultural technologies developed by CPRI.

The proposed visit is expected to facilitate practical knowledge exchange and strengthen scientific cooperation between agricultural institutions in the two countries.

Specialised Training to Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation

The two sides also discussed specialised training programmes for agricultural professionals from Tajikistan at CPRI. The proposed programmes aim to enhance technical knowledge and develop practical skills in modern potato cultivation and seed production technologies. 

Dr Singh said such capacity-building initiatives would promote technical knowledge exchange and provide Tajikistan's agricultural professionals with valuable hands-on experience in advanced potato production practices.

The interaction marked a step towards strengthening institutional ties between India and Tajikistan in the potato sector, with opportunities for scientific collaboration, technology transfer, exposure visits and professional training.