In a remarkable development in agricultural practices, the northeast Indian state of India, Tripura, is experiencing changes in potato farming with the adoption of ARC technology (Apical Rooted Cutting technology). This shift is replacing traditional potato varieties like “Jyoti” and “TPS” with advanced methods that promise greater productivity and cost efficiency.
Apical cuttings are rooted transplants produced in a screenhouse from tissue culture plantlets. Rather than allowing tissue culture plantlets to mature and produce minitubers, cuttings are produced from the plantlets. Once rooted, the cuttings are transplanted into the field to produce seed tubers.
The state’s Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Ratan Lal Nath, has described this advancement as a breakthrough for the farming community. Speaking at a press briefing in Nagicherra, he highlighted how farmers are now achieving higher yields at reduced costs, significantly improving their livelihoods.
The introduction of ARC has led to a dramatic increase in potato yields. Previously, farmers in Tripura harvested an average of 18 tons per hectare. With ARC technology, this figure has risen to as much as 61 tons per hectare. The most notable achievement came from Sajal Bhowmik of South Tripura, who recorded an exceptional yield of 61.50 tons per hectare. Other high-performing farmers included Harendra Das from Dhalai with 53.96 tons and Brajlal Debnath from South Tripura with 53.00 tons.
The Lima variety of potatoes showed the highest seed multiplication ratio at 14.39, with an average yield of 24.88 tons per hectare. This success has exceeded expectations, reinforcing the potential of ARC to reshape the agricultural landscape.
The Technology Behind ARC
Originating from Vietnam and Kenya, ARC technology employs apical cuttings derived from tissue-cultured plantlets. These are rooted in polyhouses before being transplanted into fields. The process ensures disease-free, genetically uniform seedlings and reduces cultivation costs. Additionally, it fits seamlessly into existing crop rotation systems.
Officials from the Horticulture Research Center in Nagicherra, which has led the implementation of ARC in Tripura, emphasized the simplicity and affordability of the method. They highlighted its potential to enhance productivity while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Expansion of ARC in Tripura
ARC technology was introduced last year to 104 farmers across eight districts, including Dhalai and Unkoti. The initial program covered five potato varieties—Himalini, Mohan, Uday, Lima, and Thar. Following its success, the state government plans to extend the program to 400 farmers this year, expanding to additional agricultural science centers and subdivisions.
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Minister Nath expressed confidence in the initiative, emphasizing its role in strengthening the socio-economic framework of the farming community. The government is committed to providing resources, training, and subsidies to ensure widespread adoption of ARC technology.
Looking Ahead
With its remarkable results, ARC technology is poised to redefine potato farming in Tripura. By making high-quality, disease-free seedlings more accessible, the state aims to empower its farmers and create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem. As the program expands, the government envisions a future where increased productivity and reduced costs contribute to greater self-reliance among the farming population.
The adoption of ARC in Tripura marks a turning point in agricultural practices, setting a new benchmark for productivity and efficiency in potato farming.
