India, the world's second-largest potato producer after China, is witnessing a quiet but crucial shift in how potatoes are grown. Scientists and agri-tech firms are increasingly using aeroponics, a soilless technique that helps produce high-yielding, disease- and climate-resistant potato seeds faster than ever before.
"The main motive is to ensure faster multiplication of quality seeds and to ensure farmers should have access to high yielding varieties, disease and climate resistant seeds," said Brajesh Singh, director, ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla. Mint explains how this new farming technology works, why adoption is rising now, and what it means for the country's potato farmers, production and exports.
What is the aeroponics technique?Aeroponics is a method of growing plants without soil and with minimal water. Plant roots are suspended in the air and periodically misted with a nutrient-rich water solution, giving them all the nutrients and oxygen they need to grow.
This system allows for precise control over temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels. Because it's a closed, sterile environment, the risk of soil-borne pests and diseases drops sharply. The method is especially useful for high-value crops and seed production, including potatoes and leafy vegetables.
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