Updated By: LatestGKGS Desk
IRRI celebrates 50th anniversary of IR8 rice of Asia beats femine
International Rice Research Institute celebrates 50th anniversary of IR8 rice variety of Asia IR8 helps fighting femine
International Rice Research Institute celebrates 50th Anniversary of official release of IR8 rice variety to Asia that helped India fight one of worst famines, developed by 29 years old, N.Subba Rao in November 1966.
Rao sowed a semi dwarf variety of rice in 2,000 hectares in Atchanta, West Godavari District ion Andhra Pradesh that produced 7 tonnes of rice per hectare in comparison to traditional seeds that could produce only 2 tonnes per hectare.
IR8 rice was firstly introduced in Philippines, where agri-research firm was based
It became more popular among farmers due to its short growth duration, high yield related to its response to nitrogen fertilizer and resistance to pest and insect attacks.
Being smaller in size, IR8 withstands wind action unlike traditional tall paddy and get ready for harvest in just 105 days.
