On August 29, 2024, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in collaboration with the IRRI South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC), hosted a workshop in New Delhi titled “Profiling of Potential Varieties of Non-Basmati Rice and Value-Added Products of Rice.”
Workshop Highlights:
- Research Projects:
- “Comprehensive Grain and Nutritional Quality Profiling of Non-Basmati Rice”: This project focuses on identifying high-quality, aromatic, nutrient-rich rice varieties with a low glycemic index (GI) and geographical indication (GI) tags from various Indian states.
- “Value-Added Products from Rice and Rice-Based Food Systems”: This project aims to create innovative, healthier rice-based products such as nutrient-dense rice muesli, whole grain rice cookies, popped rice, rice flakes, and instant upma.
- Centre of Excellence:
- The research is conducted at the state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence in Rice Value Addition lab at IRRI’s South Asia Regional Centre in Varanasi.
- Keynote Addresses:
- Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce: He praised the joint efforts of APEDA and IRRI, highlighting the significant export potential and health benefits of the identified non-basmati rice varieties. He also stressed the importance of value addition and branding to enhance marketability and export potential.
- Shri Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA: He discussed the importance of the rice industry in India and the need for value addition and research to improve sustainability and global competitiveness. He emphasized the need for collective effort to increase rice exports and create value-added products.
- Strategic Collaboration:
- APEDA’s support and ISARC’s innovative research are expected to drive advancements in India’s rice industry, enhancing export capabilities and contributing to economic growth in the agricultural and food processing sectors.
The workshop underscored the potential for non-basmati rice varieties and value-added products to meet global market demands for healthier food options, boost India’s export capabilities, and promote significant economic growth within the sector.
