Potato Journal; formerly (till year 2003) known as “Journal of the Indian Potato Association”, is official journal of the Indian Potato Association (IPA).The IPA was established in 1974 and registered under the “Indian Societies Registration Act XXI” of 1860 (registration No. 206/74; dated 15th June 1974). The journal covers all areas of potato research including Genetics, Breeding, Biotechnology, Agronomy, Soil Science, Seed Technology, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Storage, Physiology, Biochemistry, Post Harvest Technology, Agricultural Economics, Marketing, Statistics, Extension and Farm Machinery. The journal is published in two issues to form one volume per year. Information for authors can be found at the end of each issue. Acknowledgments to reviewers are published in the December issue. The IPA was founded with the objectives to advance the cause of potato research and development. Besides publishing Potato Journal (Formerly Journal of Indian Potato Association), the IPA also holds conferences, symposia and workshops to provide opportunities for personal contacts among potato workers to promote and exchange scientific and other information and to develop means of interaction among potato researchers, industry, farmers and consumers. EDITORIAL BOARD Subscription Information for Print Version Potato Journal publishes reviews, full length papers, short notes and book reviews on basic and applied research on potato. Potato Journal does not charge any Article Processing Charges (APCs). The authors should be members of the IPA (foreign authors are exempted). Instruction related to acquiring IPA membership is provided under “Subscription Information” Section.
The copyright of the articles published in Potato Journal is vested with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, which reserves the right to enter into any agreement with any organization in India or abroad, for reprography, photocopying, storage and dissemination of information. The Council has no objection to using the material, provided the information is not being utilized for commercial purposes and wherever the information is being used, proper credit is given to ICAR.
EVALUATION OF TRANSLAMINAR FUNGICIDESAND THEIR TANK MIXED APPLICATION WITH ECONOMICS FOR MANAGEMENT OF LATE BLIGHT OF POTATO (PHYTOPHTHORA INFESTANS) IN SUBTROPICAL PLAINS OF INDIA
Late blight, incited by Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary is the major disease of potato under the class of foliar diseases. Chemical methods are being used for the effective management of late blight. However, this pathogen is more vulnerable against specific mode of chemicals (systemic fungicides), which may develop resistant. The field efficacy of translaminar fungicides and their tank mixed application with economics were evaluated in two different experiments for managing late blight of potato during three consecutive years. In first experiment it was observed that dimethomorph 50%WP @ 0.2% showed least average terminal disease severity (14.54%) with highest disease controlled (84.15%) followed by ametoctradin 27% + dimethomorph 20.27% SC @ 0.2% and cymoxanil 8 + mancozeb 64%WP @ 0.3%. In second experiment, under the tank-mixed application dimethmorph 50%WP @ 0.1% + mancozeb 75%WP @ 0.2% showed less average terminal disease severity (22.67%) with highest disease controlled (75.97%) along with highest tuber yield (40.70 t/ha) and highest B:C ratio (2.16) followed dimethmorph 50%WP @ 0.1% + chlorothalonil 75% WP @ 0.2%, which was statistically significant. These treatments are also least affected by environmental factors like rainfall. These new fungicides and their tank-mixed sprays were found effective for managing the disease and moreover these tank-mixed sprays can be used to avoid development of resistance against pathogen.
Potato, Late blight, Fungicides, Spraying, Management
Copyright (c) 2025 Potato Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
EVALUATION OF SOME NANO-FERTILIZERS, BIOFERTILIZERS AND CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS ON POTATO VARIETY SPRIT
Potato is one of the most important crops grown worldwide. Current research was performed to identify the influences of various types of nano-fertilizers, biofertilizer and bulk fertilizers on tuber yield and some other traits of the Sprit potato variety. The trial was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates with six nutritional treating; control, NPK in bulk form, MOG biofertilizer, nano-calcium, nano-zinc plus nano boron and complete nanofertilizer and various twelve traits of potato were measured. They were number of leaves (NL), number day to initiation of tuberization (DIT), days to row closure (DRC), days to flowering (DF), number of tubers per plant (NTP), number of stems (NS), tuber yield (TY), mean tuber diameter (MTD), mean tuber weight (MTW), tuber weight per plant (TWP), dry matter content (DM) and starch total (ST). The factor analysis indicated that the first two factors, accounted 92% of variability and revealed that MOG biofertilizer was related to days to row closure and mean tuber diameter, while NPK produced the high numbers of stems. Also, no fertilizer usage (control) caused delay to initiation of tuberization, while complete nano-fertilizer had the higher amounts of the other traits like tuber yield. For obtaining the more number of leaves per plant, using complete nano-fertilizer following to nano-zinc plus nano boron is advise while for more numbers of tubers per plant, application of all tested nano-fertilizers is useful. The nano-fertilizers have beneficial ability in comparison to bulk-form and biologic fertilizers, thus nano-fertilizers especially the complete nano-fertilizer should be used to minimize the harmful influences of nutrient shortage and reaching targets of sustainable and low-input agricultural systems in production of potato under semi-arid environments.
EVALUATION OF ADVANCED POTATO (SOLANUM TUBEROSUM L.) GENOTYPES FOR SALINITY TOLERANCE BASED ON YIELD AND AGRONOMIC TRAITS
Salinity stress is a major constraint on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production, particularly in salinity-prone regions such as the Indo-Gangetic plains. This study evaluated 58 potato genotypes, including 54 advanced breeding lines and 4 released varieties, under control (ECe < 1 dS/m) and saline (ECe ~ 6.8-7.05 dS/m) environments. Genotypes were assessed for key agronomic traits, including marketable tuber yield (MTY), non-marketable tuber yield (NMTY), total tuber yield (TTY), marketable and non-marketable tuber no. and dry matter content (DM%). Salinity stress significantly reduced MTY and TTY, with yield reductions ranging from 1.86% to 65.74% and an average reduction of 31.70%. Genotypes such as WS/19-911 (yield reduction – 1.86%), WS/17-321 (2.39%) and WS/18-407 (3.16%) demonstrated superior tolerance, exhibiting minimal yield reductions, while others, including WS/17-717 (65.74%), WS/19-701 (63.64%) and WS/17-813 (60.43%), showed high susceptibility. Among released varieties, Kufri Bahar exhibited the lowest yield reduction (7.32%) in the current investigation. The Stress susceptibility index (SSI) varied across genotypes, with tolerant lines maintaining stable yields under stress. These findings highlight the potential of salinity-tolerant genotypes for breeding programs aimed at improving potato productivity in saline environments. This research underscores the importance of selecting genotypes that combine high marketable yields with resilience to salinity stress for sustainable cultivation.
ADVANCEMENTS IN POTATO SCIENCE: AGRONOMY, GENETICS, AND BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY
Irish potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a globally significant crop, valued for its high nutritional content, adaptability, and contribution to food security. This study explores its role in addressing global challenges such as malnutrition, poverty, and climate change. Despite its importance, knowledge gaps persist regarding its full nutritional potential, bioavailability of nutrients, and sustainable production practices. By employing a multidisciplinary approach, this research evaluates the potato’s nutritional value, its potential to combat micronutrient deficiencies, and strategies for enhancing productivity under changing environmental conditions. Key findings highlight the potato’s pivotal role in improving diet quality, supporting livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agriculture. However, challenges such as pest susceptibility, production variability, and cultural barriers to dietary integration remain. Addressing these limitations through improved breeding, biofortification, and targeted education campaigns can further optimize the potato’s impact. This article reviews the agronomical aspects of the Irish potato and its taxonomy nomenclature. Together, these findings highlight the importance of potatoes in providing food security to the international community, alongside the global fight against malnutrition. The aim of this study is to underscore the need for renewed focus on the Irish potato as a tool for global food security and sustainable development, offering a foundation for future research and policy innovation.
TECHNOLOGICAL IMPACT ON POTATO FARMERS’ INCOME: INSIGHTS FROM ABIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS
This research encompassed a bibliometric analysis aimed at assessing the advancement of studies concerning the technological impact on potato farmers’ income. The analysis employed Dimensions.ai data and involved querying keywords such as "Impact” and "Technology" and "Income" and "Potato" "Farmer" from 1974 to 2023, yielding 1329 pertinent documents in CSV format. To comprehend the intellectual framework, VOS viewer software (version 1.6.19) was utilized to visualize and analyze the collected data. The results unveiled the pre-eminence of human society in publications concerning the effects of technology on farmers’ income, with 578 papers. Among these articles, a majority (613) were aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 2, focused on zero hunger. Investigation into co-authorship among countries highlighted the United States as a prominent and active contributor to present research, with other nations forming clusters around it. In terms of organizational citations, Wageningen University and Research, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center and International Food Policy Research Institute as the leading entities, underscoring their substantial influence in the field. Notably, the "Agricultural Systems" and “Agricultural Economics” journals emerged as a prominent source for present research. The study advocates for collaborative research efforts to effectively investigate the technological impact of farmers’ income, emphasizing the importance of cooperation over isolated endeavours.
RICE HUSK ASH (RHA) - A POTENTIAL SOURCE FOR IMPROVING PHOSPHORUS NUTRITION IN POTATO (S. tuberosum L.)
Use of alternative sources of nutrients such organic manures, residues and by-products to chemical fertilizers may enhance not only the yield but cut down the fertilizers use. Therefore, present investigation was carried out to explore the possibility of using rice husk ash (RHA) as a source of phosphorus in potato crop. Two pot experiments were conducted on Kufri Jyoti and Kufri Girdhari to determine the effect of rice husk ash on phosphorus nutrition of the crop during 2020-21. Application of rice husk ash (RHA) significantly increased the plant height, haulms (leaf plus stem) biomass, root weight, chlorophyll content (SPAD value) and P content. In Kufri Jyoti, application of 20g RHA per pot significantly increased haulms biomass, tuber yield, relative leaf chlorophyll content and P content in haulms by 17.8 per cent over control. In Kufri Girdhari, application of 40g RHA/ pot also increased the P content by (14.6 %) in haulms over control besides significant increase in haulm yield, root mass and relative leaf chlorophyll content. It was observed that subjecting the crop to moisture stress by withholding the irrigation towards harvest, senescence was delayed in plants fertilized with rice husk ash. RHA application showed a significant and positive correlation with root length and tuber yield (r=0.70). The results of the present study revealed that RHA can be used as a source of phosphorus for potato crop and has potential to improve water relations and nitrogen nutrition as indicated by improved relative leaf chlorophyll content in plants fertilized with RHA.
Potato, phosphorus, macro-nutrient, tuber yield and rice husk ash
Copyright (c) 2024 Potato Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
GROUNDWATER QUALITY INFLUENCING THE POTATO TUBER YIELD IN DOABA REGION OF PUNJAB, INDIA
Groundwater as a source of irrigation is extensively practiced in the Doaba region of Punjab, alongside high inputs such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides. These inputs pose dual threats to the deterioration and deepening of groundwater. Therefore, a survey-based investigation was conducted in the region, involving the collection of groundwater samples, their physico-chemical analysis, and the assessment of harvested potato tuber yields. The data analysis revealed that farmers are extracting groundwater from borewells at a depth of 254.0 feet on average, with a delivery depth of 145.67 feet. The analytical results indicated that all the collected groundwater samples were suitable for irrigation purposes. Furthermore, there was a significantly positive correlation between tuber yield and nitrate content of groundwater. Thus, it is crucial to consider the contribution of nitrate from groundwater when recommending nitrogen usage.
Groundwater, Nitrate, Physico-chemical, Potato and Tuber yield
SEED POTATO PRODUCTIVITY AS INFLUENCED BY ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY OF THE NUTRIENT SOLUTION IN SOILLESS MEDIA DURING SPRING SEASON IN SUBTROPICAL REGIONS OF N- W INDIA
Soilless cultivation under controlled conditions is used for rapid multiplication of early generation virus-free potato seed using aeroponics and other mediums. The plant growth under these systems is affected by different factors like soilless media, nutrient solution concentration used, environment, genotype etc. Besides the composition of nutrient solution its electrical conductivity (EC) influences availability of nutrients and affects plant growth and yield. The two-factorial study on water source and EC was carried out on a cocopeat based medium for a nutrient efficient variety Kufri Gaurav. Well sprouted aeroponically produced minitubers of the variety were planted (at 30 x 15 cm planting density) in soilless medium filled troughs placed under net house. The water source Normal tap water was compared with RO (demineralized) water, while EC was considered at three levels 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0. The results indicated a proficient growth of the genotype at EC 2.0 (plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter, leaf length and number of stems). However, for the yield characters, EC 1.0 was found to produce both higher number of tubers, yield as well as harvest index per meter square. Based on the observations it can be inferred that at lower EC the partitioning of the photosynthates is towards the sink (tubers) as compared to the vegetative growth, which would be more desirable under the soilless systems, where limited/ managed canopy growth is more desirable, with higher productivity. The study also indicated virus free seed production in soilless medium during the spring season (seed plot period lasts up to December) in northwestern plains of India under net house, giving indication for successive/ multiple seed crops under soilless controlled conditions.
Soilless cultivation, Electrical conductivity (EC), aeroponics, minitubers, potato
SCREENING OF POTENTIAL INDIAN POTATO VARIETIES FOR EXPORT PROMOTION FROM WESTERN UTTAR PRADESH AND GUJARAT
Indian potato production potential (54 million tonnes) strengthens the cause of export of this crop from the country. Government of India has identified districts of Agra and Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh, and Sabarkantha and Banaskantha in Gujarat for potato export promotion in the Agri- export policy-2018. However, issues like suitable varieties, sustainable production and protection technologies, and efficient marketing channel are challenges for acceleration of potato export in a significant way. One of the critical gaps, suitable export potential varieties was taken up in current study. Eight potato varieties were evaluated in replicated field trials at farmer’s fields in district Agra and Gandhinagar. Based upon yield performance and feedback from exporters, potato varieties Kufri (K) Frysona (35.3), K Ganga (31.8), K Chipsona-3 (28.2), K Sangam (28.0) and K Bahar (24.0) have better export-grade (>55mm) tuber production potential (tha-1) in western Uttar Pradesh. Variety K Chipsona-3 (30.7), K Sangam (29.6), K Ganga (27.2) and K Frysona (24.9) are exhibiting prospects of export from Gujarat. Newly released specialty potato cv. K Neelkanth has also attracted the attention of exporters. Suitable potato varieties acceptable for importing destinations and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) developed by ICAR- CPRI holds a better future for Indian potato export.
Potato, Export, Main Season, Good Agricultural Practices, Variety
SELECTION OF POTENTIAL CHIPPING ADVANCED POTATO CLONES FOR THE PROCESSING INDUSTRY IN SOUTHERN AND EASTERN INDIA
A multi-location evaluation of 60 advanced processing clones was undertaken in the selected locations of south viz., Karnataka (Rabi and Kharif), Tamil Nadu (Kharif), Telangana (Rabi) and in Rabi crop season of West Bengal. Based on four-year trials, among advanced clones, viz., MP/12-126 consistently outperformed others during 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 in the Rabi season at different locations in Karnataka. However, MP/12-126 had almost similar yield but acceptable quality parameters as compared to controls in the Kharif seasons of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. MP/14-171 was found to have higher yield and acceptable quality traits during 2020-21, 2021-22 in the rabi season of Karnataka and Kharif season of Tamil Nadu during 2023. During the rabi season of West Bengal (2020-21, 2022-23) and the rabi season of Karnataka (2022-23) advanced clone MP/15-698 had superior performance. MP/15-651 was found to be the most widely adapted clone as it has superior performance in all states either in Rabi/Kharif or both. Based on a four-year field trial at multiple locations (6 locations) and seasons (rabi and kharif), advanced clones namely MP/12-126, MP/14-171, MP/15-651 and MP/15-698 have the potential to provide a suitable alternative to the potato growers of south and eastern India as against the existing variety/varieties with acceptable chip colour, high dry matter (>20%) and lesser total potato defects including higher process grade potato yield as compared to controls.
Potato, advanced clones, chipping, processing, Southern India, Eastern India
AN ECONOMICS OF POTATO PRODUCTION IN KANGRA DISTRICT OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
In Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its disease-free quality seed potato production, an economic study of 200 growers grouped into small (105) and large (95) farms revealed an overall cost of cultivation at Rs. 94,667 per farm and Rs. 3,08,051 per ha in 2022-23. Among all inputs, potato seed accounted for 29% per hectare, while human labor constituted 27% of costs. The total variable cost was 89%, with fixed costs at 11% per ha. Gross income averaged Rs. 4,67,705 per ha. Efficiency analysis across farm categories showed the cost of potato production at Rs. 250 per quintal (q). Large farms exhibited a slightly higher output-input ratio (1.52) compared to small farms. Production costs ranged from Rs. 1,195 to Rs. 1,270 per q for large and small farms, respectively, with variable costs higher on small farms (Rs. 1,117) than on large ones (Rs. 1,074) per q. The reported benefit-cost ratio stood at 1.88, indicating favorable returns. Potato prices ranged from Rs. 1,860 to Rs. 1,880 per q, with larger farms realizing higher prices. Break-even analysis suggested the need for small, large, and overall farm categories to achieve at least 50.72, 38.02, and 44.14 q of potatoes, respectively, to maintain a no-profit, no-loss condition. The analysis underscores potential profit increase by optimizing human labor, manure, and fertilizer use.
CACP cost concepts, Cost-benefit analysis, cost concepts, economic analysis, net returns
GAMMA IRRADIATION DOSES INFLUENCES ON INSTRUMENTAL COLOUR ANALYSIS AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF IRISH POTATOES IS VARIETAL DEPENDENT
Gamma irradiation has been used over time to alter tuber’s colour, which affects the sensory properties of potato products, but few studies have focused on explaining these effects. This study therefore investigated the effects of gamma irradiation on colour and sensory characteristics of French fries made from improved tubers (IP1, IP2, and IP3) irradiated at 15, 30, and 20 Gy, respectively, at a dose rate of 2Gy/minute relative to their parent tubers. From the results, gamma irradiation had varied effects on the colour parameters of tubers, with a significant (p<0.05) reduction recorded for the skin and flesh lightness of IP1 relative to the parent tuber post-irradiation. Similarly, an increase in flesh yellowness of the tubers was noted for IP2 and IP3, after irradiation. A significant (p<0.05) increase in all sensory parameters of French fries made from IP1, IP2 and IP3 relative to their parents was also noted, indicating that irradiation had a net positive effect on the sensory characteristics. A strong positive correlation was also noted between the texture, flavour, oiliness, and taste of the French fries, which all contributed to their overall liking. Gamma irradiation can be adopted to produce tubers with better colour and sensory attributes.
PERFORMANCE OF DIFFERENT MULCHING MATERIALS WITH FERTILIZER LEVELS ON MORPHOLOGICAL GROWTH AND YIELD OF POTATO IN THE CENTRAL PLAINS OF INDIA
Mulching is essential for sustainable horticulture practices in this region as it helps reduce soil moisture loss, regulate soil temperature and minimize erosion. Examining different types of mulch in this specific climate can aid in developing adaptive strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of climate variability and enhance horticultural resilience. In the experiment, two factors were considered: five types of mulching materials—maize straw, polythene (25 microns), woven mulch, and silver mulch—and two fertilizer levels—75 % and 100 % of the RDF (120:100:100 NPK kg/ha). The experiment was conducted under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato at JNKVV, Chhindwara. Results revealed that all mulched treatments significantly outperformed the control (without mulch). The highest yield was recorded with polythene sheet mulch (31.73 t/ha), followed by maize straw mulch (30.13 t/ha). Maize straw mulch provided an additional yield of 10.24 t/ha over the control. Among fertilizer levels, 100% RDF (120:100:100 kg/ha NPK) produced the highest yield (31.73 t/ha). The combined effect of mulch and fertilizer showed that the highest yield (30.93 t/ha) was obtained in the F2M2 treatment (100% RDF with polythene mulch), whereas the lowest yield (18.73 t/ha) was recorded in the F1M0 treatment (75% RDF without mulch). These results highlight the importance of mulching and optimized fertilization in enhancing potato yield in the central plains of India.
Fertilizer, Mulches, Morphological growth, Potato
A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF POTATO GROWERS IN KANGRA DISTRICT OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
This study investigates the socio-economic status of potato farmers in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. This district was chosen specifically because it has a substantial area under potato cultivation. The required information was gathered from two potato-growing blocks in the district. The study revealed that the majority of household heads (57%) are between the ages of 16 and 40, with an average family size of five to seven people. Agriculture and livestock rearing emerge as the primary sources of income for most farms, with an average farm size of 1.76 ha, 74% of which are irrigated. During the Kharif season, vegetable crops are dominant, while potatoes are important during the Rabi season, with an average of 21.23 ha per farm. Potato productivity varies, with large farms producing 253.75 q/ha versus 246.43 q/ha on small farms. Agriculture-related earnings, or farm earnings, account for 45.2% of total farm income, with potatoes accounting for 8%, while non-farm income accounts for ~26.5%. Future research topics include investigating the impact of climate change on potato farming and evaluating the effectiveness of agricultural policies in terms of income and productivity. Further research could look into the effects of modern farming techniques on sustainability and profitability, potentially providing insights into improving agricultural practices in the region.
Crop production, cropping pattern, land holdings, potato growers, socio-economic status
EFFECT OF INTEGRATED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT ON GROWTH, YIELD AND QUALITY OF POTATO (SOLANUM TUBEROSUM L.) IN SOUTHERN ODISHA
Objective of this study was to investigate the effect of the integrated nutrient management on growth, yield and quality of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Continuous application of chemical fertilizers causes nutritional imbalance and adverse effects on the physico-chemical and biological characters of soil. Thus, an integrated nutrient supply by chemical fertilizer along with organic manures is given importance, especially in heavy feeder crops like potato. The experiment was conducted at PG Research Farm of M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha during rabi season of 2023-24 under the sandy clay loam soil with an altitude of 90 m above the mean sea level. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and eight treatments: 100% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) (T1), 90% RDN + 10% N through farm yard manure (FYM) (T2), 90% RDN + 10% N through vermicompost (T3), 80% RDN + 20% N through FYM (T4), 80% RDN + 20% through vermicompost (T5), 70% RDN + 30% through FYM (T6), 70% RDN + 30% through vermicompost (T7) and control (without any chemical fertilizer or organics) (T8). The application of 100% RDN resulted in a significant increment till harvest in terms of growth parameters over the control. A significant increase in total tuber yield (239.1%), starch content (8.7%), carbohydrate content (15.8%), net return (17.26 times) was also observed under 100% RDN when compared to no chemical or organics application. Treatments integrating 90% RDN with organic amendments such as farm yard manure (FYM) and vermicompost closely matched the performance of 100% RDN. The study advocates for a balanced use of chemical and organic fertilizers, emphasizing the importance of optimizing nutrient management to achieve sustainable agricultural practices that ensure high productivity, quality and economic profitability.
Potato, integrated nutrient management, vermicompost, farmyard manure
ANALYSIS OF POTATO FARMING PRODUCTION FACTORS
There have been many research results that show that production factors affect agricultural production. However, a thorough analysis of production factors has not been carried out much. In addition, there has been no comprehensive analysis of the efficiency of potato production factors in Indonesia. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the production factors that significantly affect potato production and the efficiency of the use of production factors. A Cobb-Douglas production function analysis was carried out to determine the influence of production factors on potato production. Furthermore, an allocative efficiency analysis was carried out to determine the efficiency of using production factors. The study results showed that the production factors of land area, seed, urea fertilizer, NPK fertilizer, fungicide, land cultivation labor, and harvest labor positively and significantly affected potato production. This study also found that only the input factor of planting labor had a significant adverse effect on potato production. In the allocative efficiency analysis, it was found that the use of production factors of seed, urea fertilizer, NPK fertilizer, fungicide, land cultivation labor, and harvest labor is inefficient, so these production factors must be increased in their use. On the other hand, the production factor of the land area shows inefficient results, so the land area must be reduced to achieve optimal efficiency.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT IRRIGATION FREQUENCIES AND METHODS ON PERFORMANCE OF POTATO IN NORTH-EASTERN GHATS OF ODISHA
An experiment was conducted at CUTM, Odisha to evaluate the influence of different irrigation frequencies and methods on performance of potato. The experiment was designed in strip plot design with 4 irrigation frequencies and 3 irrigation methods together, replicated thrice. The significantly higher LAI at 60 DAP, haulm dry weight at 60 and 86 DAP, chlorophyll total at 60 and 75 DAP were recorded with 20 mm ETc than all other irrigation frequencies. In case of irrigation methods, every furrow irrigation (EFI) showed significantly higher LAI at 60 DAP, dry weight of tubers at 86 DAP, arithmetic and geometric mean diameter of grade A tubers, chlorophyll total content at 60 and 75 DAP than all others. The maximum tuber yield was recorded with 20 mm ETc which was statistically at par with 30 mm ETc. But highest starch content was recorded under 30 mm ETc and it was significantly decreased at 20 mm ETc due to plenty of soil moisture under this treatment. Starch content was also decreased significantly under EFI than AFI due to the same fact. The tuber yield obtained under EFI was statistically at par with alternate furrow irrigation (AFI). According to the linear regression, proportionate tuber yield increase will be higher with decrease in the irrigation water use efficiency. The treatment combination, 20 mm ETc-EFI showed highest gross return, net return and B:C which could be recommended for the potato growers in north-eastern ghats of Odisha. This was closely followed by the treatment combination, 30 mm ETc-EFI or 20 mm ETc-AFI and could also be adopted as a remunerative technique in the areas having water crisis.
KUFRI DAKSH: A NEW WATER-USE EFFICIENT TABLE POTATO VARIETY WITH CROSS TOLERANCE TO HIGH TEMPERATURE STRESS
Kufri (K) Daksh is a main season, medium maturing, high yielding, water-use-efficient table potato variety that can be grown in regions with limited water availability. It is a clonal selection from the cross between CP1748, having high water use efficiency and LT-1 tolerating high temperature stress. Its plants are tall and vigorous with field resistance to late blight. Its tubers are white-cream (light yellow), ovoid with shallow to medium eyes and cream flesh with good keeping quality. It is fertilizer responsive and can yield 30-35 t/ha under low water (≤ 20%) availability in middle Gangetic plains. K Daksh has better trade-off for high CO2 gain and low water loss through optimization in plant canopy leaf area and plant height components. K Daksh can be an excellent choice to tolerate high temperature and water stress regimes in changing climatic scenarios.
Potato, variety, water use efficiency, tolerance, drought, high temperature stress
BABY POTATOES-A NOVEL WAY OF POTATO CONSUMPTION
In potato production, optimum tuber size is important to maximize crop value and hence growers target different tuber sizes at harvest to meet the localized market demand as produce size affects the pricing. Normally medium sized and large sized tubers get premium rates as compared to small tubers in the market, however, small sized tubers of specific varieties are also liked for some specific purposes and therefore get premium rates. In the changing food habit scenario, tubers weighing 20-40 grams specially packed and marketed as “baby potatoes” attract consumers. Baby potatoes are valued by consumers for freshness, taste, size and shape. Baby potatoes are consumed worldwide in a variety of dishes through various culinary methods.
Baby potatoes, tuber size, crop duration, utilization, nutritional values
DEGENERATION OF POTATO VARIETIES DUE TO VIRUS INCIDENCE IN NORTH GUJARAT
The physiological causes and viral disease infections are the two main reasons for potato degeneration. The seed potato infected with viral diseases degenerate in the following successive generations therefore the investigation was carried out to evaluate the most popular potato varieties of Gujarat i.e. K. Badshah and K. Khyati against viruses (PLRV, mild mosaic & severe mosaic) and their subsequent degenerative effects on yield with comparison to fresh breeder seed. The three treatments viz., T1: Fresh breeder seed every year, T2: Previous seed produce using seed plot technique, T3: Previous seed produce without seed plot technique were evaluated. The studies were conducted for four consecutive years during rabi 2017-2021. The results revealed significantly higher per cent plant emergence at 40 DAP was recorded in T1 (Fresh breeder seed every year) and T2 (Previous seed produce using seed plot techniques) in all years as compared to T3 (Previous seed produce without seed plot techniques). The per cent incidence of viral diseases at 75 DAP was recorded highest (mild mosaic:16.67 %, severe mosaic: 17.67 and PLRV 21.83 in last year) in T3 i.e. Previous seed produce without seed plot techniques. Comparatively lower per cent incidence of viral diseases (mild mosaic:10.67 %, severe mosaic: 7.33 and PLRV 13.33 in last year) was recorded in T2 i.e. Previous seed produce using seed plot techniques and the least incidence of viral diseases (Mild mosaic:1.83 %, Severe mosaic: 1.67 and PLRV 1.67 in last year) was recorded in T1 i.e. Fresh breeder seed every year. The total tuber yield was higher in first two year in breeder as well as SPT raised seed. In Successive years the SPT raised seed tuber yield decrease. So, based on results it is concluded that seed producer can produce quality seed tuber from breeder seed up to three consecutive years by using “Seed Plot Technique”.
Degeneration, potato, virus, PLRV, Mosaic, tuber yield
ASSESSMENT OF EARLY BLIGHT RESISTANCE IN INDIAN POTATO CULTIVARS AND ASSOCIATED BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES DURING DISEASE DEVELOPMENT
Among the twenty-three varieties of potato screened against early blight disease under field conditions during Rabi 2020-21 and Rabi 2021-22 in Gujarat at Anand agricultural University, Anand, varieties were categorized into resistant (R), moderately resistant (MR), moderately susceptible (MS), susceptible (S) and highly susceptible (HS). For biochemical analysis some varieties disease reaction revealed Kufri Lima as resistant, Kufri Himalini and Kufri Nilkanth as moderately resistant, Kufri Mohan and Kufri Chadramukhi as moderately susceptible Kufri Pukhraj and Kufri Kesar as susceptible and Kufri Lalit as highly susceptible varieties to early blight disease. These varieties biochemical analysis revealed that healthy leaves of resistant, moderately resistant, moderately susceptible, susceptible and highly susceptible varieties showed higher content of moisture, total soluble sugar and total chlorophyll as compared to diseased leaves. While diseased leaves of resistant, moderately resistant, moderately susceptible, susceptible and highly susceptible varieties contained higher content of phenol and true protein compared to healthy leaves.
Potato, early blight, phenol, true protein, moisture, chlorophyll, total soluble sugar
IMPACT OF A LOCAL ORGANIC FERTILIZER ON POTATO GROWTH AND PRODUCTION AND SOIL PROPERTIES
A local liquid organic fertilizer named SolOrga Ghbar containing beneficial microorganisms and essential elements for plant nutrition was used to evaluate its effect on potato growth and production in field conditions, as well as on soil properties. Different doses of organic fertilizer i.e 0, 50, 100, and 200 L/ ha were used at 100% plant emergence and tuber formation stages, along with a commercial imported organic fertilizer as a control. A statistically significant improvement in plant growth kinetics and yield was observed following application of SolOrga Ghbar organic fertilizer at all studied doses. By applying SolOrga Ghbar organic fertilizer, potato production was almost double when compared to non-biofertilized plants and 30 % increase in production when compared to commercial organic fertilizer. SolOrga Ghbar application resulted in a significant increase in potato tuber size, suggesting an enhanced efficiency of soil mineral utilization. In addition, the application of SolOrga Ghbar at all concentrations reduced the soil pH and increases the percentage of organic matter in the soil. Application of the local organic fertilizer resulted in increased potato yield and improved soil properties, potentially enhancing nutrient availability and soil structure for subsequent horticultural crops.
AN EFFICIENT AGROBACTERIUM-MEDIATED TRANSFORMATION METHOD FOR POTATO C.V. KUFRI CHANDRAMUKHI
An optimized regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol based on internode explants was developed in potato cultivar ‘Kufri Chandramukhi’. Potato internodes were transformed by cocultivation with A. tumefaciens strain EHA 105 harboring vector pRI101. MS medium with IAA 0.042mg L-1 + GA3 3.0 mg L-1 + Zeatin 3.0 mg L-1 showed the maximum percentage of callus formation i.e. 76% with average number of shoots per explants was 7.00. This medium showed mimimal number of days for callus initiation as compared to other medium compositions The best combination for shoot regeneration was a medium of Murashige & Skoog salts with 0.042 mg L-1 IAA, 3.0 mg L-1 GA3, 3.0 mg L-1 Zeatin and 0.008 mg L-1 NAA. Use of 50 mg L-1 Kanamycin, 250 mg L-1 Carbenicillin and 100 mg L-1 Cefotaxime in the callus induction medium minimized contamination. This method is useful for genetic transformation studies in KCM.
Potato, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Transformation, Regeneration
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMICS OF POTATO CULTIVATION IN HIMACHAL PRADESH
This research paper studied the growth and economic performance of potato cultivation in Himachal Pradesh over a period of 21 years (2001-02 to 2021-22). The study was entirely based on secondary data, employing growth rate analysis, instability indices, decomposition analysis, and cost concept to fulfill the objective. The findings of the study revealed a significant increase in area, production, and productivity of potatoes, with the decomposition analysis highlighting the major role of expanded cultivation area in production growth. Instability indices reveal fluctuations in production, mainly attributed to variability in cultivation area. Input-use patterns show a decrease in input quantity but an increase in their value. The cost structure analysis emphasizes the capital-intensive nature of potato cultivation, with operational costs, particularly seed and human labor, contributing significantly. The study underscores the need for measures to stabilize potato production and mitigate the impact of rising input prices.
Growth rate, instability indices, decomposition analysis, cost of cultivation and potato
INFLUENCE OF ORGANIC AND INORGANICFERTILIZERS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OFPOTATO (SOLANUM TUBEROSUM L.) INNYABIHU DISTRICT OF RWANDAWANDA
The objective of this study was to evaluate the response of different organic and inorganic nutrients on physical growth and yield of potatoes in Nyabihu District. The experiments were conducted in farmer’s fields in Nyabihu District during the agricultural seasons 2022 B (March - June 2022) and 2023 A (September 2022 – January 2023). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with six treatments: T1 (Control), T2 (NPK), T3 (Compost), T4 (FYM), T5 (Compost + NKP), and T6 (FYM + NPK) in three replications. Physical growth and yield of the potato were evaluated. The collected data were subjected to ANOVA at 5 % level of significance and mean separation with Least Significant Difference (LSD). There was a significant difference in potato growth and yield at P<0.05. Compost combined with NPK had the highest influence on physical growth and yield followed by farm yard manure combined with NPK in both seasons. The least was control preceded by NPK alone. Crops performed better in season 2023 A than 2022 B. Therefore, combination of organic and inorganic fertilizer synergically influence potato yield than when applied individually and it should be given special attention to increase potato yield.
PERFORMANCE OF DIFFERENT MULCHES ONPHYSICAL GROWTH AND YIELD OF POTATO(SOLANUM TUBEROSUM L.) IN WESTERNRWANDA
The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of various types of mulches on physical growth and yield of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.). The experiments were conducted in farmer’s fields during the agricultural seasons 2022 B (Season B is from March to June) and 2023 A (Season A is from September to February). Experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in two sites with four replications and five treatments: T1 (Control), T2 (Dead mulch), T3 (Living mulch of Mucuna), T4 (Living mulch of Desmodium), and T5 (Living mulch of Lablab). Data were collected on the potato physical growth with an interval of 15 days after planting (DAP) while yield data were collected immediately after harvesting. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was done in Microsoft Excel at P<0.05. Results revealed a significant difference in physical growth of plants in all treatments with steady increase up to 90 DAP and decrease at 105 DAP in both Districts. Yield average was 37.67 t/ha and 30.83 t/ha in Rubavu and Nyabihu Districts respectively. It was the highest for dead mulch at 57.6 t/ha in Rubavu and 43.0 t/ha in Nyabihu District. It was followed by Lablab spp at 42.3 t/ha for Rubavu and 37.3 t/ha for Nyabihu District. Yield increment was 42.0 % and 3.8 % in Nyabihu and Rubavu Districts respectively. Dead mulch and Lablab contributed more to the yield increase and can be recommended as farming practice to increase potato yield in both Districts.
EVALUATION OF POTATO BASEDCROPPING SEQUENCE THROUGH ON-FARMDEMONSTRATIONS IN BUXAR, BIHAR
With changing climate, diversification can be an alternative option for farmers to fight climate change related problems. Rice-wheat being the major cropping system followed in Indo-Gangetic plains need to be diversified with other crops to get higher productivity and additional income. Potato is an important cash crop for farmers of eastern plains during rabi season. In this context, current study was conducted in Buxar district of Bihar to evaluate the inclusion of potato in the existing sequence and find the yield gap at farmers’ fields using on-farm demonstrations. Data was recorded through timely observation and was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The yield gap in potato in study area was found to be 26.4 per cent which can be bridged by using high yielding variety like Kufri Mohan and following the recommended package of practices. The economic analysis showed that farmers can earn nearly 40 percent more net return by adopting new varieties and scientific cultivation practices. Among five crop sequences evaluated at farmers’ field, rice-potato-moong gave highest system productivity of 234 quintal per hectare as well as maximum net returns. Thus, it is advocated to include potato in the current cropping system which will boost productivity and income of farmers by manifold.
Cropping sequence, Bihar, demonstration, economics, system productivity
EVALUATION OF AEROPONIC MINITUBER’SPOTENTIAL FOR BASIC SEED PRODUCTION
The study conducted at ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Regional Station Gwalior over a six-year period from 2017-18 to 2022-23 aimed to evaluate the performance of 17 popular potato varieties. These varieties were divided into early maturing and medium maturing categories. The study focused on various yield attributes and health parameters of these potato varieties, with a particular emphasis on breeder seed production. The emergence percentage ranged from 85% to 99%, indicating that different varieties had varying rates of successful sprouting and growth. Health status of the varieties was found sound. Variability was observed among varieties for yield attributing parameters and Kufri Neelkanth emerged as the top-performing variety in the study. It displayed the highest seed yield per square meter (3.31 kg), the highest number of tubers per square meter (231), and the largest mean seed weight (25.1 grams). Additionally, it had a significant seed multiplication ratio (SMR) by both number (6.9) and weight (25.1).
Healthy planting material, aeroponics, minitubers, varieties, virus incidence
EVALUATION OF POTATO GERMPLASM FORLATE BLIGHT AND POTATO CYST NEMATODERESISTANCE UNDER NORTH-WESTERNINDIAN HILLS
Late blight disease caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans is the main yield limiting factor amongst the diseases of potato in India and across the globe. Potato Cyst Nematode/PCN (Globodera spp.) is another biotic factor of economic importance and is a quarantine organism. Exploitation of genetic resistance is the most preferred management strategy. In the present study, indigenous potato genotypes collected from different parts of the country along with checks were evaluated for their resistance against late blight under natural epiphytotic field conditions and in laboratory under artificially inoculated conditions including detached leaf and tuber slice assays and PCN through Root ball technique during 2020-2023. The converted field scale values i.e. average AUDPC value ranged from 7 in highly resistant genotype Rangpuria to 1596 in susceptible accession AGR/56. The field blight response was comparatively more correlated (r =0.63) with susceptibility levels measured in the detached leaf assay compared to that with tuber slice assay (r =0.48). Genotypes Kanpuria Safed, JG-1, Rangpuria and Desi Aloo showed resistance to late blight both under laboratory and field conditions. For PCN, Garlentic, Jeevan Jyoti and JG-1 have combined resistance (0 female/root ball) over the years to both the species. Majority of the studied genotypes have medium to high pollen viability with desirable tuber traits and yield advantage. The identified resistant genotypes excel their usage as parental lines in breeding for biotic stress resistance specifically for late blight and PCN.
Late blight, PCN, yield, indigenous, potato germplasm
DIFFERENTIAL BEHAVIOR TO DROUGHT OFTWO ELITE POTATO CULTIVARS GROWNIN SOUTHEASTERN PAMPEAN REGION OF ARGENTINAINA
Potatoes production requires large inputs of water for which development of drought tolerant cultivars is particularly relevant to ensure or even increase its productivity. Two elite cultivars, Newen INTA and Spunta, were evaluated in the field under contrasting water regimes. After drought treatment, the yield of marketable tubers decreased 53% in Spunta and 22% in Newen INTA while the number of marketable tubers decreased 32% in both cultivars. Yield of tuber > 90 mm only decreased in Spunta (62.81%, p < 0.05). Newen INTA showed a greater reduction in the shoot and root dry biomass than Spunta, while the root/shoot ratio was higher in Newen INTA. Proline content increased 61% in both cultivars under drought treatment. Drought tolerance indices (GMP and DTI) were higher in Newen INTA, and the drought susceptibility index was higher in Spunta. Proline content was correlated with root dry biomass and the marketable tuber number in both cultivars. Dry root biomass correlated with the yield of marketable tubers and the number of marketable tubers. In drought conditions, Newen INTA showed greater tolerance to drought. Therefore, Newen INTA emerges as a useful genotype to contribute to increasing crop productivity in areas subject to water stress.