Union Cabinet approves regional wing of the International Potato Center (CIP) in Agra

On June 25, the Union Cabinet approved the setting up of a regional wing of the International Potato Center (CIP). The center will be called CIP-South Asia Regional Center (CSARC).

Location of the Center

• The CSARC will be established at Singna in Agra district, Uttar Pradesh.
• It will serve farmers in India’s potato belt states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, along with other South Asian countries.

About International Potato Center (CIP)

• Headquarters: Lima, Peru.
• Established: 1971.
• Focus Areas: Research on potato, sweet potato, and other Andean roots and tubers.

Historical Significance of Potatoes

• Native Region: Peruvian-Bolivian Andes, Latin America.
• Spread globally by Spaniards and Portuguese during colonization.
• Introduced to India: In the 17th century.

CIP’s Global Engagement

• Active in South America, Africa, and Asia.
• Started working in India: In 1975.
• Partnership: Entered an agreement with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) focusing on potatoes and sweet potatoes.