Industry-Focused Capacity Building Strengthens Research–Industry Partnership for Sustainable Growth of India's Potato Value Chain at ICAR-CPRI, Shimla

ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla, successfully concluded a three-day capacity-building programme on "Varietal Identification and Insect Pest Management of Potato" for employees of Bhatti Agritech Pvt. Ltd., Jalandhar. The industry-oriented training programme was aimed at enhancing the technical competence of the company's field personnel engaged in its expanding contract farming programme.

Addressing the valedictory session, Dr Brajesh Singh, Director, ICAR-CPRI, emphasized that strengthening the technical capacity of field professionals is crucial for the success of contract farming and the effective dissemination of scientific technologies to farmers. He stated that stronger collaboration between research institutions and the private sector would contribute significantly to improving potato productivity, quality, and farmers' income while promoting sustainable agricultural development.

The Head of the Division of Social Sciences highlighted that the programme provided participants with practical and scientific knowledge on potato varietal identification, integrated pest management, quality seed production, and scientific crop management. It was noted that the competency development programme would enable field personnel to deliver more effective technical advisory services to contract farmers and facilitate the adoption of improved production technologies.

Sharing feedback, the Programme Manager of Bhatti Agritech Pvt. Ltd. appreciated the expertise of the ICAR-CPRI scientists and observed that the programme offered valuable insights into varietal identification, insect pest diagnosis and management, pest monitoring, integrated pest management, and quality seed production. It was further noted that the interactive sessions and field demonstrations effectively addressed practical challenges encountered under contract farming and provided scientific solutions for improving productivity and profitability.

ICAR-CPRI appreciated Bhatti Agritech Pvt. Ltd. for its commitment to the professional development of its employees and expressed confidence that such industry-focused capacity-building initiatives would further strengthen research–industry partnerships, accelerate the adoption of improved potato production technologies, and support the sustainable growth of India's potato value chain.

(Source: ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla)