Kufri Jamunia: ICAR-CPRI Develops Nutrient-Rich Purple Potato to Tackle Hidden Hunger

Why in the News?

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Central Potato Research Institute (**ICAR-CPRI**) has developed **'Kufri Jamunia'**, a biofortified nutrient-rich purple potato variety designed to address 'hidden hunger' and improve dietary diversity by integrating essential micronutrients into a staple crop.

Key Features / Major Points:

- Tackling Hidden Hunger: Hidden hunger occurs when people consume adequate calories but lack essential vitamins and minerals. Biofortification integrates nutrition directly into crops through plant breeding, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

- ICAR-CPRI's Coloured Potato Lineage:

- **Kufri Neelkanth (2018):** First purple-skinned specialty potato variety with high antioxidant content.

- **Kufri Manik (2021):** Deep red tubers with yellow flesh, rich in anthocyanin, zinc, and iron.

- **Kufri Jamunia (2024):** Features superior levels of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), anthocyanin, and carotenoids, along with enhanced zinc and iron content.

- Salient Agronomic Features of Kufri Jamunia:

- **Yield Potential:** Yields 32-35 tonnes per hectare under recommended practices, scaling up to nearly 49 tonnes per hectare in station trials.

- **Nutritional Superiority (per 100g):** Contains Vitamin C (42.75 mg), Zinc (2.28 mg), and Iron (3.22 mg), significantly higher than conventional yellow-skinned potatoes.

- **Storage Quality:** Exhibits a medium dormancy period of 6-8 weeks, resulting in minimal sprouting, low rottage, and excellent shelf-life.

- Culinary Versatility: Valued for its attractive purple flesh, mealy texture, and pleasant flavor, it is ideal for traditional dishes (curry, paratha), breakfast items (daliya, upma, dosa), and processed baking ingredients.

Static GK Facts:

- Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI): Located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (Established in 1949).

- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): New Delhi |

- Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare: Shivraj Singh Chauhan.

- Anthocyanin: A water-soluble vacuolar pigment responsible for the purple/red hue in biofortified crops acting as a powerful antioxidant.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: Which research institute developed the biofortified purple potato variety 'Kufri Jamunia'?

A: ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla

Q: What gives Kufri Jamunia its distinctive purple flesh and high antioxidant properties?

A: Anthocyanin

Q: Where is the Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) headquartered?

A: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Q: What term is used to describe micronutrient malnutrition despite adequate calorie intake?

A: Hidden Hunger

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