The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is a renowned research institution that is dedicated to leading innovative technologies in rice-based agriculture and food systems. Their ultimate goals are to alleviate poverty and reduce hunger globally.
In South Asia, IRRI operates through the IRRI South Asia Regional Center in Varanasi (ISARC), which has become a state-of-the-art research facility for collaboratively working with national systems to develop new rice varieties, strengthening seed systems, enhancing grain quality, improving value chain propositions, implement seed-to-seed management practices, and build capacity.
Recently, Dr Jean Balie, Director General of IRRI, met with the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, and other high-ranking officials in a courtesy meeting. The state government has been a strong supporter of ISARC, and Dr Balie expressed his sincere gratitude for their continuous support of IRRI's research and development activities in the state.
He highlighted the institute's work on developing quality, nutritious, and climate-resilient rice varieties through ISARC and shared future plans for establishing an incubation centre for agribusiness opportunities and addressing challenges in rice-based systems in the state. Dr Balie sought the government's support in transforming agriculture as a growth engine for Uttar Pradesh and India.
Chief Minister Adityanath commended IRRI's and ISARC's work in the state and offered full support through the government towards shared goals of farmer welfare. He congratulated IRRI on signing an MoU with four agriculture universities in the state and urged for more collaborations to promote knowledge sharing and capacity building.
The Chief Minister presented his vision of developing Uttar Pradesh as a leader in rice cultivation and welcomed IRRI's support in developing sustainable practices and varieties that are better suited for the state's agroecology and climatic challenges. He also advised doing more research on natural and organic farming practices and gifted the IRRI delegation with mementoes promoting “One District, One Product” (ODOP).
Dr Balie thanked the Chief Minister for his valuable suggestions and time and presented him with IRRI souvenirs and cookies made from Kalanamak Rice developed by ISARC scientists.
