Focus on... Rice

Worldwide, in over 100 countries where rice is grown, it is believed that there are almost 150,000 cultivated varieties. Most were developed over millennia, and many are still grown by millions of smallholder farmers, who continue to collect rice seed each year selecting for characteristics that are felt to be important. In many regions, rice not only shapes the landscape but also the culture and traditions of the people who depend on this highly valued staple. In parts of Southeast Asia, the crop is so revered that farmers compare a grain of rice to a 'grain of gold'. FAO has designated 2004 as 'Year of Rice' and it is the first time that a commodity has been given such unprecedented attention. Much has been accomplished in the rice sector over the last fifty years. But, whilst consumption continues to rise, rice production is declining, and there is much that still has to be achieved. In this edition, New Agriculturist adds its own perspective on rice as we focus on some of the triumphs and tribulations of breeding, producing and communicating about rice.

All hyped up for hybrid rice?

More than half the total rice area in China is currently planted to hybrid rice but as consumption increases, Chinese scientists continue their dedication to raising productivity by developing super hybrids whilst popularity for hybrid varieties increase across Asia and elsewhere...

Rice - learning from the past?

In ancient times, the economy of the great city of Angkor, located in present-day Cambodia, was based on rice, with a complex system of waterways for irrigation. As the archaeological secrets of Angkor are revealed, what cautionary tales from this once mighty city can be communicated to the modern world...

How rice farmers benefit from ICT

Imagine walking into an internet café and watching youngsters - bubbling with enthusiasm - taking delight in demonstrating the basics of computer use to their parents.The assumption, understandably, would be that they are demonstrating the latest computer game. But...

Eureka for NERICA!

Since the 1960s, imports of rice to West Africa have increased eight-fold, costing the region almost US$1 billion a year. But, due to the dedication and perseverance of a team of African scientists, it is possible that Africa may once again become self-sufficient in rice varieties bred for Africa...

Red rice for self-reliance!

Bhutan's rice is red and so highly favoured, even revered by the Bhutanese, that very little is available for export. The significance of Bhutan's red rice may appear to be minimal elsewhere, but...

The golden future of rice?

Golden rice has been hailed by researchers as a new miracle rice that could solve vitamin A deficiency in afflicted countries. But will golden rice live up to its promise...