Division of CPB & PHT

Crop Physiology, Biochemistry and Post-Harvest Technology Division, ICAR-CPRI, Shimla

The Crop Physiology, Biochemistry and Post-Harvest Technology (CPB&PHT) Division of the ICAR–Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla, conducts fundamental and applied research to improve potato productivity, nutritional quality, processing suitability and post-harvest management. Its research integrates crop physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and food technology to address key challenges across the potato value chain. The Division is an integral research unit of ICAR-CPRI.

Major research areas include the physiological and biochemical basis of plant growth, tuberization, maturity, dormancy, sprouting, and responses to environmental stresses such as high temperature, drought, and nutrient limitations. The Division also evaluates potato germplasm and varieties for nutritional and processing-quality attributes, including dry matter, sugars, starch, proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, glycoalkaloids, and other health-promoting compounds. Modern biochemical, molecular, and omics-based approaches are used to elucidate the mechanisms governing tuber quality, nutritional enhancement, and climate resilience.

In post-harvest technology, the Division develops and refines cost-effective methods for potato storage, sprout suppression, reducing storage losses, and maintaining processing and nutritional quality. It also works on value-added potato products, processing technologies, elevated-temperature storage, utilization of potato waste and by-products, and entrepreneurship-oriented technologies. Through research, training, technical guidance, and technology transfer, the CPB&PHT Division contributes significantly to reducing post-harvest losses, improving farmers’ returns, supporting the potato-processing industry, and strengthening food and nutritional security in India. Its recognized contributions include refining farm- and cold-store-level storage technologies, processing technologies, and protocols for the nutritional profiling of potatoes.

Dr Som Dutt, Head (Acting)

Division of Crop Physiology, Biochemistry and Post Harvest Technology

ICAR-CPRI, Shimla-171 001

Ph: 0177-2625182 Ext: 451, Fax: 91-177-2624460

E-mail : som.dutt1@icar.org.in 

Division of Crop Physiology, Biochemistry and Post Harvest Technology