Kufri Neelkanth: India's First Purple-Skinned, Yellow-Fleshed Potato for High Yields

Potatoes are a cornerstone of Indian agriculture, but the demand for nutritionally superior and specialty varieties is growing rapidly. Kufri Neelkanth, developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI), and released in 2018, stands out as the first purple-skinned and yellow-fleshed potato variety in the country. Known for its rich antioxidant content, this variety combines aesthetics, health benefits, and high yield, making it a game-changer for farmers and consumers alike.

Specialty of Kufri Neelkanth

1. Medium Maturing and High Yielding:

Produces 43 tons per hectare under optimal conditions, ensuring profitability for farmers which is 18% more tuber yield than red-skinned potatoes. It takes about 90 days from planting to harvest for the medium-maturing Kufri Neelkanth cultivar. For farmers who want to effectively rotate their fields, this makes it a crop that can be harvested somewhat quickly.

2. First-of-its-Kind Variety:

India’s first potato with a unique combination of purple skin and yellow flesh with a mealy texture, catering to the growing demand for specialty potatoes.

3. Nutritional Benefits and Antioxidant Rich:

High in essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamins, and dietary fiber, making it a healthy choice for consumers. Both the purple skin and yellow flesh are loaded with anthocyanins and carotenoids, known for their antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

4. Adaptability and Processing Quality:

Thrives in diverse agro-climatic conditions, making it suitable for cultivation across different regions of India and Ideal for value-added products like chips and baked goods due to its vibrant appearance and excellent texture.

Health Benefits

• Boosts Immunity: Antioxidants like anthocyanins and carotenoids enhance the body’s defense against infections and diseases.

• Heart Health: Rich in potassium and low in fat, Kufri Neelkanth supports cardiovascular health.

• Improves Vision: Carotenoids in the yellow flesh help maintain eye health and reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

• Aids Digestion: High dietary fibre content promotes gut health.

Recommended Regions for Cultivation

• Northern Plains: Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

• Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

• Hilly Areas: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and northeastern states.

Kufri Neelkanth is a pioneering variety that combines aesthetics, nutrition, and profitability, offering a new dimension to potato farming in India. Its purple skin and yellow flesh not only make it visually appealing but also enrich it with antioxidants and health benefits. With its adaptability, high yield, and excellent processing qualities, Kufri Neelkanth is a promising option for farmers looking to diversify and consumers seeking healthier choices. This variety is set to revolutionize potato farming, proving that innovation in agriculture can benefit both growers and consumers alike.