From lab to farm: BAU develops new open-field cherry tomato varieties

Bhagalpur: 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.
The university is actively working to promote cherry tomato cultivation across larger areas in the region by encouraging farmers to adopt this variety. Multi-location trials are being initiated across various agro-climatic zones, along with studies on nutritional profiling and post-harvest yield. BAU also plans to collaborate with private seed companies, farmer producer organisations (FPOs), and agri-startups for branding and marketing.
Director of research highlighted that this achievement reflects the convergence of science and sustainability to positively impact farming communities.
Scientists Shirin Akhtar, Tirthartha Chattopadhyay, and Rajesh Kumar from Krishi Vigyan Kendra emphasised that the new premium cherry tomato varieties promote efficient land use and promote effective crop diversification.