Technico Agri Sciences Limited (TASL), a 100 per cent subsidiary of ITC Limited, has entered an agreement with the James Hutton Institute, a premier global research and innovation organisation based in Scotland, to source 16 new varieties and 600 new clones of potato for trialling and testing in India.
These differentiated varieties promise to further benefit India’s farmers and the potato processing industry as well as help in promoting potato exports. The agreement is initially for a period of five years and is extendable. These varieties will grow through a process of research and development (R&D) and evaluation to identify varieties suitable for growing in India in different states. They will help address the demand of processors and exporters for new varieties and are expected to further improve yields by 15 to 20 per cent and enhance farmers’ incomes by better realisation. Exports and processing help improve farmgate prices and manage crop surpluses.
Speaking on the agreement, Sachid Madan, chief executive officer, TASL, said, “Technico, ITC’s subsidiary, has been engaging extensively with farmers and processors across different geographies to help improve farm yield in potatoes significantly. The improvement in yields along with better prices for such varieties has contributed to the doubling of farmers’ incomes in states like Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and others, and has also facilitated exports and processing. This landmark agreement is yet another substantive step in maximising returns for farmers, particularly for potato crop farmers.”
Jonathan Snape, head, James Hutton Limited, the commercial subsidiary of the James Hutton Institute, stated, “Our mission is to be at the forefront of innovative and transformative science for sustainable management of land, crop and natural resources that supports thriving communities. Since potato farming provides livelihood to a significant section of India’s agricultural community, we are hopeful that our tie-up with Technico will help these communities effectively.”
Andrew Ayre, British deputy high commissioner, Chandigarh, was also present at the occasion. He said, “Agri-tech is a key area of bilateral co-operation, and a core UK strength. I am delighted that this partnership will improve farmers’ incomes and bring more choice to consumers.”