Ardabil – The Iranian Minister of Agriculture underscored the strategic role of nuclear technology in boosting food security and supporting farmers, calling it a powerful tool to address climate challenges and enhance agricultural productivity.

 

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Northwest Radiation Processing Center, Gholamreza Nouri highlighted the importance of Ardabil Province as one of Iran’s leading potato producers, noting that with an annual output of over 700,000 tons, the province accounts for about 14 percent of the country’s five million tons of potatoes and serves as a major export hub.

 

He described the launch of the radiation-processing facility as a significant step forward in improving storage efficiency, eliminating contamination, and enhancing the export potential of Iranian potatoes. “This advanced technology will play a key role in improving the regional economy and increasing farmers’ incomes,” he added.

 

The minister identified climate change, water shortages, and soil erosion as major obstacles to agricultural growth, stressing that the application of science and innovation—especially nuclear technology—is essential to overcoming these barriers. He noted that nuclear techniques have far-reaching benefits across the agricultural chain, from seed and crop improvement to pest control and post-harvest management, demonstrating the peaceful use of nuclear energy for sustainable development.

 

Nouri reaffirmed that the Ministry’s top priority is to empower rural-based agriculture and small-scale producers, ensuring fair prices for consumers and maintaining a resilient and sustainable production cycle that benefits farming communities nationwide.