Archive · 10 Jun 2025
Uttar Pradesh Partners with IRRI to Boost Kalanamak Rice
Uttar Pradesh is teaming up with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to create a research center focused on improving Kalanamak rice.
This special rice, known as Buddha rice, has been grown since 600 BC and is GI-tagged.
The center will help develop pest-resistant varieties and improve the seeds.
The state aims to grow the rice on a larger area and is working to export it to countries like Singapore and Nepal.
The rice sells for a higher price compared to other varieties due to its aroma and high antioxidant content.
Uttar Pradesh is boosting production and exports to increase the market.
Uttar Pradesh is establishing a research center with IRRI for Kalanamak rice.
The center will focus on improving seed quality and developing pest-resistant varieties.
The state plans to expand the cultivation area to 1,00,000 hectares for the 2025-26 kharif season.
Kalanamak rice is a GI-tagged, aromatic variety with historical significance.
Uttar Pradesh exported about 500 tonnes of the rice last year.
- Who
- Uttar Pradesh government and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).
- What
- Establishing a research center for Kalanamak rice.
- When
- The research centre is in the process of being set up; the expansion of cultivation area is targeted for the 2025-26 kharif season.
- Where
- Siddharthnagar district, Uttar Pradesh.
- Why
- To boost production, exports and improve the quality of Kalanamak rice.
- Partner
- International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
- Research Centre Location
- Siddharthnagar district, UP
- Cultivation Start
- 600 BC
- Domestic Market Price
- Rs 250-300 per kg
- Target Cultivation Area
- 1,00,000 hectares (2025-26)
- Production
- 32.8 lakh tonnes (2024-25)
- Exports Last Year
- 500 tonnes
