Varanasi: The annual Rice Varietal Cafeteria Evaluation event was organised at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) here under the guidance of ISARC director Sudhanshu Singh and Norman Borlaug Field Scientist Award recipient and IRRI Seed System and Product Management South Asia head Swati Nayak.The one-day event was held to provide farmers and other stakeholders a platform to observe, assess, and select the best varieties at the crop cafeteria that hosted 36 new varieties of different segments.The event also included discussions on seed entrepreneurship, community seed production with FPO/FPCs, and early-generation seed production in collaboration with BHU providing valuable insights for future actions in Uttar Pradesh.While addressing the inaugural session, Swati Nayak said such events are sure to play a crucial role in advancing sustainable agriculture for farmers in Uttar Pradesh.This event at ISARC is part of broader efforts across South Asia to raise awareness among value chain actors, ensuring the integration of new rice varieties into the production chain. She said in recent years, the Seed System unit of ISARC has acted as the focal point for the dissemination of multiple rice varieties across various districts in Uttar Pradesh through extensive OFTs (On Farm Trials), Cluster demonstrations, and Minikit distributions. Varieties like MTU1156, Swarna Samridhi, CG Devbhog, Telangana Sona, and many other varieties are being availed to farmers through the Robust seed systems varietal dissemination models comprising early generation seed production, quality seed production training, and collaborations with public and private stakeholders. After the inauguration, the delegates shared their insights on the importance of choosing the right seed variety for maximizing yields with the participating farmers. IRRI scientists presented research findings into the latest advancements in rice seed systems and variety development. Agriculture department joint director SN Dubey advised the farmers to choose such short-duration varieties that could help in early harvest, resulting in reduced incidences of stubble burning and providing surplus time for the next crop duration. Uttar Pradesh Beej Nigam MD JK Tomar emphasized on the need for collaborative approaches between farmer clusters (like FPOs, SHGs, and women SHGs), IRRI, and UP Beej Nigam for establishing seed entrepreneurship, that will not only ensure better income but also ensure quick dissemination of improved varieties of rice across the state.After the technical session, the rice varietal cafeteria visit showcased 36 rice varieties.We also published the following articles recentlyCurtains on last harvest of now banned Pusa 44 paddy varietyFarmers in Punjab are switching from the Pusa 44 paddy variety, which contributes to stubble burning and requires more water, to the recommended PR-126 variety. The government has banned Pusa 44 and is encouraging farmers to switch to PR-126, which has a shorter cultivation period and similar yields. PR-126 was used by farmers affected by floods to cover the lost ground and had comparable yields to Pusa 44. The Punjab Agricultural University has been discouraging the cultivation of Pusa 44 due to its higher input cost.Girls Days Hyeri, aespas Karina and Kim Do Hoon to new mystery variety show Agents of MysteryAgents of Mystery, a unique variety show on Netflix, unveils an impressive lineup of diverse talents. PD Jung Jong Yeon, known for Devils Plan, leads the project. With a fresh twist, the show combines mystery-solving and adventure. The ensemble cast includes Lee Yong Jin, Lee Eun Ji, John Park, Hyeri, Kim Do Hoon, and Karina. As fans anticipate the show, the casts wit, charm, and diverse talents promise a dynamic viewing experience. Agents of Mystery adds to the range of must-watch variety shows with its unique cases, humor, and star-studded chemistry.Dont fall prey to rumours: Ravi says its not plastic rice, its fortified riceCivil supplies minister Ravi Naik refutes allegations of plastic rice being supplied to beneficiaries through fair price shops. He clarifies that what is being alleged as plastic rice is actually fortified rice, which is healthy and consists of iron and vitamins. Goa receives fortified rice from Delhi and distributes it to eligible beneficiaries. Naik urges people not to mistake fortified rice for plastic rice and not to fall prey to rumours. He also emphasizes the need to promote the PM Vishwakarma Yojana and encourages people to avail of its benefits.

Stay updated with all the Varanasi Latest News headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.