The ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI) has successfully developed an orange-fleshed sweet potato variety, SP-95/4, to enhance food security among tribal communities in Kerala and other states. The variety has completed final trials in Odisha, West Bengal, Karnataka, and Kerala, demonstrating its adaptability to different climatic conditions.
Nutritional Advantages
The SP-95/4 variety is rich in beta-carotene, containing 8 mg per 100 grams, making it a valuable source of Vitamin A. This is particularly beneficial in addressing Vitamin A deficiency, which is prevalent among tribal populations. Additionally, the tubers, which have a fusiform shape and an average weight of 300 grams, are well-suited for processing, further enhancing their utility.
Expansion Plans
Currently cultivated on 10-15 acres, the initiative aims to expand cultivation to 100 acres by the end of 2025. There are also plans to establish a processing unit with support from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, which will contribute to economic growth and improved livelihoods for local farmers.
Research And Development
Extensive trials of the SP-95/4 variety have been conducted across Odisha, West Bengal, and Karnataka, proving its high-yield potential and suitability for different environmental conditions. In Attappadi, the final set of trials showcased encouraging results, reinforcing its viability for large-scale farming.
Key Initiatives Supporting Cultivation
The project is part of two major initiatives:
Rainbow Diet Programme (Launched by ICAR-CTCRI in 2023): Aims to promote biofortified tubers in tribal diets.
Punarjeevanam (A collaborative effort by Kudumbashree & ICAR-CTCRI, expanded in 2024): Supports agricultural expansion and food security efforts in tribal regions.
A key target of these initiatives is to increase sweet potato cultivation in Attappadi to 100 acres by 2025.
Impact On Public Health
Incorporating sweet potatoes into local diets serves as a crucial strategy for tackling malnutrition and ensuring better health outcomes in tribal communities. This initiative aligns with national public health policies that emphasize improved nutrition and dietary diversity as essential elements in addressing food insecurity.
Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT 2023, NEET 2023, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main 2023 application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.
For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board
For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section
For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section
For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section
For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section
News about the latest admissions, results, upcoming government jobs, Sarkari exams and many more.