"60% increase in high-quality crops transforms Peruvian agriculture."

The National Institute of Agricultural Innovation (INIA), an agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (Midagri), has revealed a remarkable 60% increase in cultivated areas with high-quality and productive soils in Peru. This advancement represents a significant improvement for over 2 million small and medium-sized farmers spread across the various regions of the country, including the coast, highlands, and jungle. The announcement, made by Jorge Ganoza Roncal, head of INIA, coincides with the celebration of the 203rd Anniversary of Peru's Independence, highlighting the importance of the agricultural sector in the national economy. The strategy behind this increase lies in the transfer of 200 high-value crop varieties, which has allowed farmers to boost their production of certified seeds by 70% and make these varieties more resistant to pests and diseases, a recurring problem in Peruvian agriculture. This approach aims not only to increase the quantity of production but also to improve the quality of the crops, which is crucial for meeting the demand of national and international markets. INIA has complemented this effort with the implementation of more than 200 demonstration plots throughout the country, which serve as models to teach farmers best practices and cultivation techniques. These plots, located in Agricultural Experimental Stations (EEA), are fundamental in showcasing the effectiveness of agricultural innovation programs and promoting the adoption of technologies that enhance productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices. Ganoza Roncal emphasized that the crops developed through these programs not only have a greater capacity to withstand adversities but also present a better nutritional profile, including high levels of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and proteins. This benefits not only the producers but also contributes to the country’s food security and the health of the population. To ensure the success of these crops, INIA has implemented various agronomic methodologies and techniques, including the production of organic fertilizers, soil monitoring using advanced technologies like spectral cameras, and the recovery of degraded soils. These initiatives aim not only to increase production but also to ensure that lands are used sustainably and responsibly. Through detailed analyses of soil quality and its needs, INIA has been able to identify the conditions that favor the growth of different crops. Additionally, agromorphological studies have been conducted, and training has been provided to farmers on good agricultural practices, strengthening their ability to manage their lands more effectively. Among the productive chains being enhanced are key crops such as rice, potatoes, beans, hard yellow corn, starchy corn, quinoa, and sugarcane. Crop diversification not only contributes to the economic resilience of farmers but also promotes sustainability and the conservation of agricultural biodiversity. The improvement in forage production is also a relevant aspect, as it contributes to the genetic improvement of livestock, including species such as cattle, goats, sheep, and camelids. This represents an important advancement for the country's livestock industry, benefiting from the availability of quality food for livestock, which in turn enhances meat and milk production. Additionally, INIA has established a network of 15 laboratories accredited by INACAL, where analyses of water, soil, and foliage are conducted. These laboratories are essential for producers to understand the status of their lands and make informed decisions that positively impact their agricultural production. In summary, INIA's actions represent a milestone in Peruvian agriculture, promoting sustainable and effective practices that allow farmers not only to increase their production but also to improve the quality of life in their communities. With these efforts, INIA positions itself as a fundamental pillar in the pursuit of a stronger and more resilient agricultural sector, capable of facing future challenges and contributing to the country’s development.