In a step towards sustainable horticulture, scientists and researchers at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) have developed colourful, high-market-potential varieties of 'open-field cherry tomatoes' after six years of extensive research. Unlike earlier versions that required cultivation in protected environments like poly-houses, these new varieties are suitable for open-field conditions typical of the eastern Indo-Gangetic region's climate, making them more accessible to average farmers.
BAU aims to introduce these new varieties to both domestic and international markets. The breakthrough, dubbed "from lab to land", was led by scientists Shirin Akhtar and Tirthartha Chattopadhyay from the department of vegetable science, under the guidance of director of research A K Singh and vice-chancellor D R Singh.
Cherry tomatoes are considered a high-value crop due to their long shelf life, attractive appearance, natural sweetness, and suitability for raw consumption. Their growing demand in urban areas and export markets makes them a promising option for crop diversification.
According to the BAU VC, the earlier varieties' dependence on greenhouse conditions and high input costs limited their reach. The current research aims to bridge that gap by developing genetically diverse varieties tailored to market needs.
Read more at Times of India