Basmati Rice research in India

Publicly-funded research, like India's basmati rice innovation by IARI scientists, can lead to significant real-world benefits, boosting exports and income.

• The Basmati rice revolution in India refers to the remarkable growth in the cultivation and export of Basmati rice varieties.
• This transformation has been driven by advancements in agricultural research and technology, particularly the efforts of scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi.
• Over the past three decades, India's Basmati rice exports have surged from around 0.3-0.35 million tonnes valued at 200-250 million dollars to 4.5-4.6 million tonnes worth 7-4.8 billion dollars.
• This success story showcases the potential of scientific research to significantly impact the agricultural sector and boost the country's economy.

Basmati Rice varieties in India:

• Pusa Basmati-1121 (PB-1121): PB-1121 has gained immense popularity both in India and in international markets due to its quality and unique attributes.
  • This rice variety is prized for its distinct and appealing aroma, often described as nutty or floral.
• PB-1509: PB-1509 is another variety of Basmati rice developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi, India.
  • Similar to other Basmati varieties, PB-1509 is known for its distinct characteristics, including long grains, aromatic fragrance, and excellent taste.
  • It is a popular choice among consumers, especially in regions where Basmati rice is highly valued for its culinary qualities.

What are concerns associated with Basmati rice in India?

• Lack of Minimum Support Price (MSP): Basmati paddy doesn't have a minimum support price (MSP), making farmers reliant on market prices, which can be volatile.
• Reliance on Export Market: Most of India's basmati rice is exported, leaving farmers vulnerable to fluctuations in international markets and government policies, such as export restrictions.
• Market and Policy Risks: Recent export restrictions, like the minimum price requirement of 1,200 per tonne dollars, highlight the potential risks associated with basmati farming, affecting farmers' income and livelihoods.