Scientists explore low glycemic index (Low GI) rice varieties to counter the growing diabetes epidemic in Asia, with potential health benefits and economic opportunities for farmers. Developing Low GI milled rice can reduce blood sugar spikes and support better glycemic control.
A team of IRRI researchers has identified genes responsible for low glycemic index (GI) and high protein content in rice. The study reveals superior lines with ultra-low GI (below 45%) and unprecedented protein levels, which can help control blood glucose levels.
The region needs to close its yield gap substantially to reduce rice imports and maintain a surplus for exports. Closing the existing yield gap will require improvements in crop management practices such as fertilizer use, irrigation, nutrient management, and integrated pest management.
The GRiSP initiative is expected to lift 150 million people out of poverty by 2035 and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 1 billion tons of carbon dioxide. The partnership will deploy rice's genetic diversity, break the yield barrier in rice production, and breed climate-ready rice.
A recent study published in Field Crops Research found that the 'miracle rice' variety IR8 has seen a 15% drop in yield since its release in the 1960s, mainly due to environmental factors. Ongoing breeding efforts are necessary to help farmers cope with changing climate conditions.
Using television and radio to tell stories about sustainable rice farming has helped Asian farmers better conserve biodiversity. Dr. K.L. Heong's research found that building biodiversity into rice paddies can prevent pest outbreaks, reducing the need for pesticides.
IRRI must produce an additional 8ñ6 million tons of rice over the next twenty years to meet demand and keep prices affordable. The organization supports sustainable land acquisition practices, prioritizing benefits for poor rice farmers and consumers.
A global team of researchers has developed tools to analyze the genetic diversity of rice, a crucial step towards improving crop yields and securing global food supplies. The comprehensive SNP information will enable exploration of rice diversity for understanding gene function and improving important traits.
Research by the International Rice Research Institute has led to early rice harvests, reducing famine in northwest Bangladesh. The new methods allow farmers to plant rice earlier and use shorter-duration varieties, improving food security and reducing monga.
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is developing drought-tolerant rice to help farmers cope with water shortages affecting 15-20 million hectares of irrigated rice. Genetically modified rice may also play a role in boosting production and improving grain quality during postharvest
A new, higher-yielding rice plant is being developed through a global consortium of scientists, which aims to increase yields by 50% while reducing fertilizer and water usage. The project has received a $11 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and has the potential to benefit billions of poor people worldwide.
The Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) aims to increase grain production by 5 million tons annually, benefiting six million poor rural households. The project will focus on sustainable cereal production in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal through the development of new crop varieties and technologies.
Bui Chi Buu, director general of the Institute of Agricultural Science for Southern Vietnam, has been awarded the Senadhira Rice Research Award for his outstanding work in developing popular rice varieties in Vietnam. His efforts have led to the certification of many rice varieties grown by farmers throughout the Mekong Delta.
Several new flood-tolerant rice varieties have passed tests in farmers' fields with flying colors, offering a solution to crop losses due to flooding. The varieties, which can withstand 2 weeks of submergence, are nearly identical to their susceptible counterparts but recover after severe flooding to yield well.
A recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations highlights that higher food prices are partly to blame for the number of hungry people growing, with around 925 million worldwide. To address this, a second Green Revolution is needed to expand productivity sustainably while preserving natural resources.
The International Rice Research Institute has received a $500,000 donation from 5 PRIME to support research on developing drought-tolerant rice varieties. This donation will strengthen IRRI's capabilities for efficient and cost-effective rice production.
The International Rice Research Institute is receiving $19.9 million in funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop and distribute stress-tolerant rice varieties. The goal is to reach 18 million households and increase yields by 50% within 10 years, benefiting small farmers in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
The international rice research community is addressing the problems facing irrigated rice farmers, including land loss, water competition, labor shortages, and increased pest and disease issues. IRRI research has shown that farmers can increase production by up to 15% through better fertilization timing and reduced water usage.
The Asia-Pacific region is being called upon to conduct thorough research on the benefits, risks, and impacts of biofuels on agriculture and food security. Key findings include the need to balance food and biofuel production to avoid competition for resources and ensure poverty alleviation.
A new funding agreement will help conserve and manage the world's thousands of unique rice varieties. The IRRI's genebank provides the last line of defense against famine, especially in times of war, natural disasters, and pests/diseases.
Researchers at IRRI and UC Davis have identified a cluster of three genes linked to flooding vulnerability or tolerance in rice. The Sub1A gene is overexpressed, making normally intolerant varieties tolerant.
The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation's 16-year project has resulted in a significant increase in Laos' rice production, reaching 2.5 million tons in 2004. This growth is attributed to the adoption of modern varieties, resulting in higher yields and increased cash income for households.
A study confirms that rice research has contributed significantly to poverty reduction in China and India. The research shows that improved rice varieties can increase farmers' income, lower food prices, and boost demand for labor, ultimately lifting millions out of poverty.
A new study found that nutritionally enhanced rice can significantly increase total body iron levels in women. The research, led by the International Rice Research Institute, demonstrates the potential of biofortification to combat micronutrient malnutrition.
The collaboration aims to uncover the genetic basis underlying important agricultural traits in rice. By identifying sequence variation between major rice varieties, researchers can associate DNA variations with traits like drought resistance or vitamin content, ultimately helping to breed more resilient and nutritious rice strains.
Rice-producing nations emphasize the need for collaboration to develop new rice varieties through science and technology. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture facilitates access to plant genetic resources, but many members have not ratified it.
A severe drought in Asia has pushed millions of people below the poverty line, but researchers are developing new technologies to help farmers adapt. New rice varieties and irrigation management strategies can improve crop yields and reduce water usage.