Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s potato sector is set to undergo a major transformation with the introduction of aeroponic potato farming, a modern technique that has the potential to revolutionize the industry. The country’s rapidly growing population and the need for food security have intensified the demand for sustainable and efficient agricultural practices that can boost crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. Aeroponic potato farming presents a promising solution to these challenges, offering a soil-less method of cultivating potatoes that increases yields and reduces water and pesticide usage. With this innovative technique, Pakistan can ensure a consistent supply of fresh, high-quality potatoes while achieving sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.
The signing ceremony was graced by the presence of H.E. Mr. Suh Sangpyo, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, who served as the chief guest. During his speech, he highlighted the collaborative efforts between Pakistan and Korea, including the joint potato seed production project which is progressing at an accelerated pace. He also revealed that there are several other projects in the pipeline which will be launched soon. Furthermore, he expressed his commitment to fostering greater cooperation between the two countries by offering training opportunities in agriculture for Pakistani professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Chairman of PARC, emphasized the importance of developing aeroponic potato seeds for Pakistan. At the TCP signing ceremony, he explained that conventional potato plants yield only five tuber seeds, while aeroponic plants can produce 50 to 60 seeds each. Pakistan cultivates potatoes on about 300,000 hectares of land but imports 15,000 to 20,000 tonnes of potato seeds each year due to the poor quality of domestic seeds. This puts a strain on farmers who cannot afford high-quality imported seeds, resulting in lower yields. However, with the implementation of the aeroponic potato seed project, Pakistan could annually save Rs 2-3 billion and achieve self-sufficiency in potato seed production. Dr. Ali thanked the government of the Republic of Korea for their financial and technical assistance in the potato sector.
A joint project between KOPIA and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) on aeroponic pathogen-free seed potato production is set to be launched soon. Dr. Cho Gyoungrae, Director of KOPIA-Pakistan Center, stated that the project aims to supply 150,000 tons of certified seed potatoes within five years, with the establishment of a seed production and supply center. This center, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and trained manpower, will provide sustainable annual supply of 150,000 tons of seed potatoes. The project will involve the development of eight aeroponic greenhouses, 35 screen houses, cold stores, hardening and propagation houses.
Dr. Aish Muhammad, the Project Coordinator, reported that the project aims to lower potato production costs and enhance yields by supplying quality seed potatoes at affordable prices. This will also lead to self-sufficiency in seed potato supply in Pakistan. The project will develop a sustainable seed potato production system using aeroponic infrastructure and trained manpower.
The event brought together Korean and Pakistani scientists, as well as senior management from PARC.
