Odisha Releases 15 New Horticultural Crop Varieties, Including India’s First Rose Apple Variety

Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment today released 15 new horticultural crop varieties during a meeting of the State Seed Sub-Committee, chaired by Principal Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee. The release marks a significant step in boosting Odisha’s horticultural sector with innovative and farmer-friendly varieties.

The varieties recommended by the screening committee include eight developed by OUAT Kalinga (Chilli, Brinjal, Amaranthus, Tomato, Cashew, Mango Ginger, Black Turmeric, and Potato), two by CTCRI (Sweet Potato, Yam bean), and five by CHES (Rose Apple, three types of Amaranthus, and Brinjal).

Among the highlights, the Rose Apple variety from CHES has been released for the first time in India, while the OUAT Kalinga Black Turmeric-1 is recognized for its medicinal properties. The newly developed Kalinga Baby Potato (Phulbani Aloo) also drew attention for its unique taste and potential market value.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Padhee said the release of these varieties will contribute to diversifying crop options for farmers, strengthening food security, and enhancing the State’s horticulture economy.

The meeting was attended by Director Horticulture Kalunge Gorakh Waman, Special Secretary Dillip Parida, Dean Research, OUAT Niranjan Panda, Head of CHES Gobinda Chandra Acharya, MD of OSSC Ltd., NSC Area Manager Jagadish Mishra, along with progressive seed producers, dealers, and farmers including Kamala Basini Mohanty, Gourahari Jena, Sabitri Paika, and Krushna Chandra Nag.

Officials noted that the new varieties would soon be made available to farmers through seed distribution networks, ensuring access to improved crop choices that can enhance yield, taste, and resilience.