A Milestone Moment: Dedication of 13 New Varieties
On 11th August 2024, a landmark event will take place in New Delhi, where 13 high-yielding, climate-resilient, and nutrient-rich varieties developed by ICAR-IIHR will be dedicated to the nation by the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modiji. This event is part of a broader initiative to release “109 climate-resilient varieties of different field and horticulture crops” aimed at addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring food security for the future.
These 13 varieties represent the pinnacle of IIHR’s research and include a diverse range of crops. Notable among them are the Arka Chandra variety of pummelo, which is a prolific bearer with sweet pulp and low Naringenin content (the bitter principle), and the Arka Vaibhav variety of tuberose, known for its high-quality double-type white flowers.
The dedication of these varieties is a testament to IIHR’s commitment to supporting India’s agricultural community by providing them with the best possible resources to succeed in an increasingly challenging environment.
Six Decades of Innovation: How ICAR-IIHR is Transforming Horticulture in India
For six decades, the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) has been at the forefront of agricultural research in India, pioneering advancements in horticulture that have significantly impacted the nation’s food security, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices. Established with a vision to enhance the productivity and quality of horticultural crops, IIHR has consistently delivered on this promise, developing a remarkable 327 varieties/hybrids and 154 cutting-edge technologies across a wide range of crops including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and medicinal plants.
Over the years, IIHR’s research has led to the development of 327 distinct varieties and hybrids that cater to the diverse agro-climatic conditions of India. These include 38 varieties of fruit crops, 149 of vegetable crops, and 140 of flower and medicinal crops. Each of these varieties is designed not just to boost yield but also to withstand various biotic and abiotic stresses, making them suitable for both smallholder farmers and commercial growers.
Pioneering Varieties and Hybrids
For instance, the institute has developed varieties like Arka Udaya (mango) and Arka Kiran (guava), which are high-yielding, semi-vigorous hybrids that boast high Total Soluble Solids (TSS), making them ideal for high-density planting. These varieties are not only profitable for farmers but also nutritionally rich; Arka Udaya is high in carotenoids, while Arka Kiran is rich in lycopene, both of which are essential antioxidants.
In addition to fruits, IIHR has made significant contributions to vegetable crops with varieties like Arka Nikita, an iodine-rich okra hybrid that is resistant to Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (YVMV). Similarly, the Arka Vistar variety of Dolichos bean, which is photo-insensitive and yields 37 tons per hectare, stands out as a prime example of the institute’s focus on productivity and resilience.
Technologies That Transform
Beyond developing new crop varieties, IIHR has also been a leader in creating innovative technologies that enhance horticultural practices. These 154 technologies cover a broad spectrum, from pest and disease management to post-harvest handling and processing. The aim is to provide farmers with the tools they need to improve crop quality, increase yields, and reduce losses.
One such example is the development of technologies for the commercial cultivation of Arka Vaibhav tuberose, a double-type white flower variety ideal for cut flowers, yielding 2.5 to 3.0 lakh spikes per hectare. This technology not only boosts flower production but also ensures high-quality blooms that meet the demands of both domestic and international markets.
In medicinal crops, the non-itchy velvet bean varieties Arka Dhanvatari and Arka Daksha, rich in L-Dopa, are particularly beneficial for managing Alzheimer’s disease. The Arka Ashwagandha variety stands out for its high root yield and withanolide content, along with its tolerance to bacterial wilt and late blight diseases. Additionally, the Arka Prabhavi variety of Centella asiatica is notable for its high yield and significant asiaticoside content, which provides antidiabetic and immunity-boosting benefits.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Horticultural Research
As IIHR looks to the future, its focus remains on innovation and sustainability. The institute is poised to continue its groundbreaking research, with an emphasis on developing varieties that not only meet the nutritional needs of the population but also address the pressing issues of climate change and resource scarcity.
The journey of ICAR-IIHR over the past six decades is a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to improving the livelihoods of farmers and the health of consumers. With the continued support of the Indian government and the agricultural community, IIHR is well-positioned to lead the next wave of advancements in horticulture, ensuring that India remains a global leader in agricultural innovation.
The ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research has played a pivotal role in transforming Indian agriculture, especially in the horticultural sector. Through its relentless pursuit of excellence in research and development, IIHR has contributed significantly to the nation’s food security, farmer welfare, and overall agricultural sustainability. As the institute celebrates its achievements and looks forward to future challenges, it continues to be a beacon of hope and progress for the agricultural community in India and beyond.