IGKV Chhattisgarh develops protein-enriched rice variety

The researchers of the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalay (IGKV) in Raipur developed a protein-enriched rice variety.

The newly developed rice variety has over 10 per cent protein content, which is three per cent more than what is found in any popular variety and has 30 PPM zinc content.

The researchers hope that it would serve as a boon for malnourished population, especially children, in the tribal-dominated Chhattisgarh.

Key highlights

• The researchers worked for seven years to develop the variety of rice that is rich in protein along with high zinc content.

• The rice variety will play a crucial role in fighting protein deficiencies.

• The rice variety will be sent to the state’s variety identification committee within six months for final release following which it is likely to be ready for cultivation next year.

What the survey says?

• As per a survey conducted in 2015, very high rate of malnutrition was found among pre-school children in tribal areas showing conditions like being underweight and stunted growth, which indicates a critical situation.

• Over five lakh children in Chhattisgarh are underweight, with tribal districts like Bastar, Dantewada, Kondagaon and Narayanpur having a comparatively higher rate of malnourishment then other districts.

• The Women and Child Development Department in September 2016 informed that malnutrition rate in Chhattisgarh has declined to 29.8 per cent from 47.1 per cent registered in the National Family Health Survey 2005-06 (weight-based).