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#rice

Good News

Rice to the Top: India Surpasses China in Rice Production Game!

In a moment of agricultural glory, India has emerged as the world’s largest rice producer, toppling China. With a staggering output of over 149 million tons in the 2024–25 season, this is a symbol of India’s growing might in global food production. China, a long reigning nation, is now trailing with about 144.62 million tons. This is the result of decades of scientific research, resilient farmers, and smart government incentives. Indian rice fields have thrived with a new confidence, ensuring not just quantity, but quality too. And the best part? The USDA predicts India will stay on top in the next season as well, reaffirming that this is a beginning of a new era.The Powerhouses Behind the PaddyMeet India’s top five rice-producing states, the real architects of this success story. Telangana leads the parade, churning out the highest volumes with green technology. Uttar Pradesh follows closely, its vast fields are nourished by hardworking farmers and ancient rivers.Then comes West Bengal, where rice cultivation is a tradition passed down like family heirlooms. Punjab, the land of five rivers, adds its flavor with fragrant basmati, known to seduce tastebuds across continents. And Chhattisgarh, fondly called the "Rice Bowl of India", brings in the magic of traditional wisdom and indigenous grains. Each state tells a story of sweat, soil, and sunshine that fuels India's rise to the top.Seeds of Change: How India Rewrote the RulebookGovernment support didn’t just come in the form of promises but it came through minimum support prices, modern irrigation techniques, and research-backed high-yield seeds. States rolled out incentive schemes that boosted production and revived pride in farming.And let’s not forget the technological edge. From drones surveying crops to AI-backed predictions of rainfall, India has woven modern science into the age-old rhythm of agriculture. Mechanization made the back-breaking labor less taxing, while storage and transport improvements ensured that not a single grain was wasted.More Than a Victory: A Responsibility to the WorldBeing the top rice producer isn’t just about glory, it’s about responsibility. With countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East depending on rice imports, India’s bumper harvests can help stabilize global food supply and ease hunger. Yet, the journey ahead demands balance.Water scarcity, shifting monsoons, and the call for sustainable practices are all challenges that come with the crown. India must tread carefully, ensuring its own people have full plates while also feeding the world. This victory is the beginning, and if nurtured well, it promises not just national pride, but global impact.

25 May 2025
Good News

An Agricultural Revolution: India Launches World’s First Genome Rice!

Here is a grain of rice so smart, it knows how to save water, mature early, fight the harshness of the climate, and still give you more food per acre. Sounds futuristic? Welcome to the present , where science meets soil and India takes a giant leap into the future of farming.India has introduced two new rice varieties — DRR Dhan 100, also known as Kamala, and Pusa DST Rice 1. These are the first rice varieties in the world developed through genome editing using CRISPR-Cas technology, which allows for precise changes without genetic modification.Meet Kamala – The Swift and Strong One Derived from the beloved Samba Mahsuri, Kamala matures 20 days faster than its parent, saving precious water and nutrients. It also grows stronger stalks, stands tall against wind and rain, and yields nearly 20% more than before. Early to rise, high on strength, Kamala isn’t just a variety, it’s a revolution disguised as a seed.Got salty, tough soils? Pusa DST Rice 1 doesn’t flinch. Born from MTU 1010, this variety is a blessing for areas with saline or alkaline land. With yield boosts ranging from nearly 10% to a whopping 30%, this grain doesn’t just grow,  it thrives, even in the toughest terrains.The Bigger Picture – Why Does It Matter? These aren’t just science experiments. They are solutions. Together, they could add 4.5 million extra tons of rice, conserve 7,500 million cubic meters of irrigation water, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions by 20%. All this, without inserting any foreign DNA, meaning they stay just as Indian as your grandmother’s khichdi.From the rice bowls of Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal to the fields of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu,  these varieties are set to grow across 15+ states. Adaptable, resilient, and future-ready, they are tailored for the diverse heartbeats of Indian agriculture.Today's Technology, A Grain for Tomorrow! With a ₹500 crore push from the government to accelerate genome-editing in agriculture, India is setting the stage for smarter crops, not just in rice, but also in pulses and oilseeds. Kamala and Pusa DST are just the beginning of a much larger story, one that rewrites how we look at food security, climate change, and sustainable farming.So next time you see or eat a grain of rice, remember,  it might just be carrying the future in its husk.

6 May 2025
Good News

Sweet Triumphs: India's Top 3 Rice Puddings Take the Global Stage!

Many people have a particular place in their hearts for rice pudding, a creamy and soothing dish that is adored by people all around the world. Three Indian desserts have recently gained attention after ranking among the world's top 10 rice puddings. This honor emphasizes the delicious dishes' international appeal in addition to celebrating the diversity of Indian cuisine. These three Indian rice puddings are ranked in the top 10 worldwide because of their delicious flavor, cultural value, and broad appeal. Their position on this prestigious list highlights the popularity of rice-based sweets throughout the world in addition to showcasing the diversity of Indian cuisine. 1. Kheer: Kheer, also known as payasam, is a popular rice pudding that holds a prominent position in Indian cuisine. Made with rice, milk, and sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts, Kheer offers a delightful blend of sweetness and aromatic spices. It's often served as a dessert during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions across the country. (Source: Google Images)  2. Phirni: Originating from the northern regions of India, Phirni is a creamy rice pudding with a rich texture and a hint of rose water. It is traditionally served in earthenware pots, adding a rustic charm to its presentation. Garnished with almonds, pistachios, and saffron strands, Phirni captivates the taste buds with its delicate flavors and smooth consistency. It is very similar to rice kheer but has a different texture and taste. Kheer is made from whole grains of rice while Phirni is made from soaked blended rice. In Kashmir, Phirni is made with semolina, but Punjabi Phirni is made only with rice. It is loved by all and is popular throughout South Asia. (Source: Google Images)  3. Rice Payasam: Rice Payasam, popularly known as Chawal ki Kheer, is a classic Indian dessert enjoyed in various forms across different regions. It features cooked rice simmered in sweetened milk until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. In India, a rice pudding is referred to as rice kheer. The English translation of the well-known Tamil Nadu treat Paal Payasam is therefore "milk (paal)" and "kheer (payasam)." It is also known as Arisi Paal Payasam, Rice Payasam, or Paal Payasam. It's also the easiest dessert you've ever imagined, rice payasam. Rice, milk, sugar, and ghee are the only four ingredients that need to be cooked together to create this deliciously rich and creamy mixture. The addition of cashews, raisins, and a dash of cardamom lends a heavenly flavor to this beloved sweet treat. (Source: Google Images)  Here are some nutritional information, health advantages, and wholesome ways to enjoy kheer or rice pudding. 1. Enhances digestive health~ The rice used to make kheer has a significant amount of starch, which lowers inflammation and promotes intestinal health. Rich in carbs, rice kheer aids in replenishing the glycogen that is depleted after strenuous activity. 2. The Effect of Cooling~ Rice kheer has a cooling impact on the entire body in addition to the stomach. This is helpful in the summer since the body uses excessive amounts of energy to regulate the metabolism and handle the body's tendency to overheat. In these circumstances, a small bowl of chilled kheer can be safe. 3. Goodness of Rice~ Milk is the main component of rice kheer. Amino acids are found in milk and are essential for several bodily processes. Kheer's nutritional values: Vitamins C and A are present in good amounts in Kheer. In addition to being low in cholesterol and an excellent source of calcium, one bowl of rice kheer has the following nutritional facts: Kheer of rice (one serving) ~ 235 calories,  122 carbs,  24 proteins,  and 73 fats Life is full of uncertainties, so eat dessert first!  

25 Apr 2024
Good News

In a Groundbreaking Development, Hybrid High-Yielding Rice That Needs To Be Sown Only Once in Two Years Can Be a Solution to Stubble Burning

Researchers have developed a long-lived perennial rice that is essentially a type of paddy that allows farmers to sow just once while permitting up to eight harvests without reducing output – that's roughly two years of freedom from crop plantation. By crossing a domestic annual rice from Asia with a wild perennial rice from Africa, researchers have created this perennial rice. By using contemporary genetic technologies to expedite the process, the team discovered a promising hybrid in 2007, set up extensive field trials in 2016, and launched PR23, the first commercial variety of perennial rice, in 2018. Perennial rice has several benefits over ordinary rice. For instance, farmers that grew perennial rice used about 60% less labor and spent half as much on seed, fertilizer, and other inputs because they didn't have to plant every season. There is excitement about introducing this variety in India as apart from its regular benefits, this rice can play a major role in curbing air pollution in Northern India where stubble burning is a major issue. Due to its detrimental effects on air quality, human health, and the environment as a whole, stubble burning is hindering states like Punjab, which are renowned for the types of rice they produce and the agricultural techniques they use. Farmers would thus be able to harvest the crop numerous times, and their requirement to burn the stubble after harvest would be substantially lessened if this high-yielding, long-lived perennial paddy could replace the current types with a few simple alterations, thus paving the way to sustainable agriculture.

10 Nov 2022
Good News

This Amazing ‘Rice for Plastic’ Initiative Serves Many Purposes

An Andhra youth has come up with an interesting way to rid his town of plastic. He decided to compensate all those people who collect and bring plastic waste with an equivalent quantity of rice. Rice being the staple food of Andhra Pradesh, the ‘Rice for Plastic’ initiative is turning out to be a big success as people from all over the place started pouring in with plastic to get rice in exchange. A Novel Idea Naresh Peddireddi, a young cashew nut trader came up with this rice-for-plastic idea. Many youths belonging to a non-governmental organization, ‘Mana Peddapuram’ in East Godavari district gave wings to this idea and it became a reality. They named the drive ‘Avoid Plastic-Avoid Hunger’ and it garnered a huge response from the masses. Whoever brought plastic material preferably single-use plastic, were provided with rice in kilograms equivalent to the weight of plastic they brought. Eradication Of Plastic The plastic thus collected is sent to the municipality which employs people to segregate and recycle it. The municipality can also utilize the plastic for the construction of roads. Rice which costs Rs 30 per kg is sourced from nearby mills that have agreed to contribute to their cause. On the first day itself, the NGO was able to collect 200 kg of plastic and the same amount of rice was given to the people. People of Peddapuram are very enthusiastic about this project which seems to be gaining momentum as the place has become free from plastic and poor people are able to get their staple food.

8 Nov 2019
Good News

Good News As Legendary Swimmer Stephanie Rice Plans to Train Indian Swimmers for Olympic Medals

Australian swimmer, Stephanie Rice who won three gold medals- all in world record time-in 2008 Olympics is aiming to set up her swimming academy in India to train young talented swimmers and prepare them to win medals at 2024 and 2028 Olympics. Just as P V Sindhu excelled in badminton and won laurels for her country, Rice said that she hopes to have an Indian swimmer on the podium. “My goal is to produce India’s PV Sindhu in swimming,” says Rice. The Swimming Academy The academy aims to train elite swimmers who are above 13 years of age and who are already training at a club. Rice believes that the only thing coming between Indian swimmers and an Olympic medal is world-class training which she intends to give. After her retirement in 2012, Rice has been thinking of making available the fruits of her own experience, knowledge and training, to others. Rice will set up the Stephanie Rice Swimming Academy (SRSA)  in any city that has a facility that covers the needs of the academy and is equally excited about the possibility of producing an Olympic Medallist. India Connection Rice has visited India many times and calls the country her second home. She visited India in 2016 as an expert analyst during the Rio Olympics, and in 2018 as a presenter during the Pro Kabaddi League. Once the academy is set up, Rice will personally train the athletes for 3-4 months spreading out over the whole year. She said that she would be with the athletes as often as she can as she wants to win their confidence and trust in the process of making them winners. With Rice’s swimming academy, we can hope that the problems of lack of infrastructure and professionally managed coaching programmes will be overcome and the country can produce world-class swimmers at the biggest podiums.

26 Sep 2019
Good News

Fuel - petrol and diesel prices to change on daily basis from May 1

Like in the advanced markets, from May 1, prices of petrol and diesel will keep changing daily as per the international rates. The daily price revision will start initially in selected five cities and will gradually extend to the entire country. Major oil retailers of our country, Indian Oil Corp (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL) will launch a pilot for daily price updates. These retailers have almost 95 percent of the petrol pumps across the nation under them. The oil retailers now, revise the rates of fuel on 1st and 16th of every month on the basis of the average international fuel rise in the previous fortnight and currency exchange rate. From May 1 onwards, instead of using the fortnightly average, the retailers will keep updating rates on daily basis changes in the international oil prices and the Rupee-US dollar fluctuations. This is to be implemented first in selected five cities across the nation namely, Puducherry, Vizag in Andhra Pradesh, Udaipur in Rajasthan, Jamshedpur in Jharkhand and Chandigarh. IOC Chairman B Ashok told the Press Trust of India (PTI) that, "Ultimately, we will be driving towards market linked rates on a daily basis at all pumps across the country."  

14 Apr 2017
Good News

India now a part of International Energy Agency as an associate member

With a view to set a mark in global energy, India is now a part of Paris-based body “International Energy Agency (IEA)” as an associate member. IEA was founded in 1974 by developed countries after the shocking hike in oil prices all over the world. India’s entry in this group was announced by IEA executive director Faith Birol, power, coal, renewable energy and mines minister Piyush Goyal and oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Mr. Birol explained that the entry of India in the organization as an important achievement for them as India is the world’s third largest oil consumer. It has appreciated efforts of India to provide continuous power supply to all its citizens and the brilliant achievements made by India in field of energy conservation and efficiency. With India’s inclusion in the committee, IEA now formally covers almost 70 percent of world’s energy consumption. India will have now a significant say in global energy issues. India is representing the developing economies and now India will also have important significant discussions with major oil suppliers and consumers. India is a key buyer of energy resources and thus a potential market and this inclusion in IEA is a very significant step for India on a global front  

31 Mar 2017
Good News

Global News

Sake: Japan’s Timeless Brew Joins UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

Sake is not merely a drink in Japan—it’s a symbol of cultural heritage, deeply rooted in traditions and rituals. Brewed in centuries-old mountaintop warehouses, served at weddings, and cherished in cozy izakayas, this smooth rice wine holds a special place in Japan's culinary and social fabric. Now, sake has received global recognition as UNESCO added traditional sake-making to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, a tribute to its enduring legacy.What Makes UNESCO’s Recognition Special?Unlike UNESCO’s World Heritage List, which celebrates sites like Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza, the Intangible Cultural Heritage designation highlights practices, traditions, and products that embody a culture’s identity. Alongside sake, this year’s list includes Brazilian white cheese, Caribbean cassava bread, and Palestinian olive oil soap.At a meeting in Luque, Paraguay, Japanese delegates celebrated the honor. Takehiro Kano, Japan’s ambassador to UNESCO, called sake “a divine gift” integral to the country’s cultural and social events. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba shared his pride in sake’s recognition, commending those who have worked tirelessly to preserve and promote this traditional craft.The Craftsmanship Behind SakeTraditional sake-making is a meticulous process that blends artistry with patience. The recipe is simple—rice, water, yeast, and koji mold—but the process is anything but. Over two grueling months, the ingredients are steamed, stirred, fermented, and pressed to create the beloved rice wine.The type of rice is crucial. For a product to be categorized as Japanese sake, the rice must be grown in Japan, reflecting the importance of local ingredients in the country’s cultural identity. Koji mold plays a pivotal role, breaking down starches into fermentable sugars, similar to malting in beer production.This meticulous brewing technique has been perfected over a thousand years. Sake even features in “The Tale of Genji”, the 11th-century Japanese literary masterpiece, where it was a favored drink in the elegant Heian court.Source: Google ImagesSake’s Modern Challenge: Reviving Interest at HomeWhile sake enjoys a revered status, it faces challenges in Japan. Younger generations are increasingly favoring imported wine, domestic beer, and whiskey. UNESCO’s recognition, officials hope, will reignite local interest in sake and reaffirm its place as Japan’s premier alcoholic drink.“This will help renew interest in traditional sake elaboration,” Kano noted. Japanese breweries share his optimism, viewing this recognition as a chance to revive domestic interest in sake while further expanding its global appeal.Sake’s Global AppealAs Japanese cuisine gains popularity worldwide, so does sake. Exports have surged, raking in over $265 million annually, according to the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association. The United States and China are the top importers, where sake is increasingly enjoyed alongside sushi and other Japanese dishes.After the announcement in Paraguay, Japan’s delegation raised a cypress box filled with sake to toast this milestone. The act symbolized not only a celebration of tradition but also a hopeful future for the craft.Source: Google ImagesSake is more than a drink—it’s an embodiment of Japan’s history, craftsmanship, and spirit. UNESCO’s recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage celebrates this iconic rice wine as a global treasure, ensuring its traditions are cherished for generations to come.So, the next time you sip on sake, know that you’re partaking in a thousand-year-old ritual, now immortalized as part of humanity’s cultural heritage. Kampai!

5 Dec 2024
Global News

League of Her Own: Jeannie Rice, 76-Year-Old Runner, Breaks the World Record Once More

Wonder Woman in reality! A 76-year-old running veteran named Jeannie Rice has surpassed her own record to create a world record in the women's 75–79 age division at the 2024 TCS London Marathon with a time of three hours, 33 minutes, and 27 seconds. She beat the previous world record, which she had established in Chicago at 75, by almost a minute. Rice has held master world records before. In addition, she has the 3:27:50 women's 70-74 marathon record, which she achieved in 2018. Her impressive list of master's world records in distance running is enhanced by this achievement. Although Rice recorded a quicker time (3:33:15) at the Boston Marathon last year, the race was not eligible for records due to its point-to-point, net-downhill format. She has finished all six Abbott World Marathon Majors and won her age category in each. Nothing is Unbeatable For Her Passionate Energies ~  (Source: Google Images)  Insights into Her Training Pattern to achieve such world record  ~  Rice considers herself a snowbird, as she lives and trains in her hometown of Mentor, Ohio for six months of the year before heading to Naples, Fla., for six months every winter. “I’ve been approached by people who wanted to coach me, but they seemed expensive and had other demands I didn’t like. I listen to what my friends do and what others are doing in training. I try to run 50 miles most weeks, and a bit more before my marathons. But I don’t follow a schedule. Mostly I just train the way I feel. I’m still running strong and beating records, so I must be doing something right. “I know it’s possible that a coach could help me the way Gene Dykes’s coach helped him, but it’s also possible that things could go wrong. I like to decide my training according to how I feel each day.” Her Eating habits are also very sorting in terms of being healthy ~ Her Breakfast is usually oatmeal with fruit and nuts. At lunch and dinner, she enjoys a green salad with some sort of seafood or fish on top. She has never liked sweets and doesn’t crave them, but loves to have cheese and nuts as a treat. That’s her biggest downfall maybe in her mind —cheese and nuts. The only supplements she takes are calcium, vitamin D, B-12, and magnesium. Making Her Training As a Ritual ~  It's The Fire That Craves For More In Her ~ (Source- Google Images)  She had a sense of self-realization during these years of running, “I like to get my run done early, so I have the whole day in front of me when I get back home at 7:30 A.M. or so. I’m usually running by 6 A.M. In Florida, where I spend my winters, that can be important for the cooler weather. But on days when I’m going 20 to 23 miles, I’ll get up at 3:30 A.M.  and begin running at 4:30 A.M.  I’ll go two hours on my own, and then join a local training group for their morning loop, which gives me another hour or so.” She doesn't seem in the least bit scared by the unwritten future, even though she is practical about it. She's determined to perform, even at her age. She intends to keep pushing herself to run fast and hard and to break age-group records! Takeaway ~  Age is merely a number that represents a person's duration of this lifetime. These figures don't sum up who you are, what you've accomplished, or what lies ahead. Regardless of age, one can accomplish anything. The age card frequently puts unwarranted pressure on people in today's environment to behave in a way that is consistent with their age. Generally speaking, it indicates that people become overly self-conscious and attentive, which can negatively impact their life perspectives, sense of self, and social changes. Aging is portrayed negatively in several myths, but why choose this perspective? Positivity is the key to accepting and appreciating life as we become older.

17 May 2024
Global News

The London Library Has Appointed Its First Female President

The London Library, one of the world's leading independent libraries, has recently announced the appointment of its first female president. Opened in 1841, the library has a long and rich history, but it is not until now that a woman has been chosen to lead it. The new president, actress Helena Bonham Carter, who took over author Sir Tim Rice, is excited to take on this new challenge and looks forward to leading the London Library into the future. In a statement, she said: "The library is truly a place like no other, inspiring and supporting writers for over 180 years, many of whom have in some way informed my own career. Its unique resources, history and membership help to connect the literary greats of the past with those of the future, and I am proud to support this incredible and vital establishment.” As the London Library's new president, Carter will be responsible for overseeing the library's operations, including its collections, programming, and finances. She will also be responsible for building relationships with donors, sponsors, and other stakeholders, as well as working with the library's board of directors and staff to ensure the library's continued success and growth. The appointment of Carter as the London Library's first female president is a significant milestone, and one that reflects the library's commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and equality. 

2 Jan 2023
Global News

The Whys and Hows

Brown Rice: Yes, Indeed a Healthy Habit!

The super hero of our diet, protein aids in tissue growth and repair, boosts immunity, and even aids in maintaining a healthy weight. The problem is that many Indian women are unaware that they are protein deficient. For what reason is it the case? In a nation where carbs are abundant in the food, protein is frequently neglected. We've been raised to believe that a meal isn't complete unless it includes mounds of rice and chapati, and although these are definitely tasty, they might not give us the protein our bodies require. Addressing the Outcomes of Protien Deficiency~ A protein shortage is more than simply a slight lethargic or weak sensation. It may result in major health problems, such as: 1. muscular Loss: Insufficient protein prevents our muscles from growing or repairing correctly, which causes weakness and muscular atrophy. 2. Issues with Hair and Skin: Insufficient protein can lead to dry skin, brittle hair, and sluggish wound healing. 3. Weakened Immunity: Since protein is essential to a healthy immune system, a diet low in it might lead to an increased risk of illness. 4. Fatigue: Do you constantly feel worn out? A protein shortage might be the cause. Here comes the 'Brown Rice' ~ Whole grain brown rice is the source of brown rice protein, which is abundant in essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. However, brown rice protein also offers a number of other wonderful advantages. 1. Plant-Based Goodness: Brown rice protein is a great way to satisfy your protein demands if you're a vegetarian or vegan without using animal products. 2. Simple to Digest: Brown rice protein is mild and simple to digest, in contrast to certain protein sources that can be harsh on the stomach. 3. Allergen-Friendly: It is ideal for people with dietary concerns because it is inherently hypoallergenic and gluten-free. 4. Sustainable: Compared to animal husbandry, brown rice cultivation is less harmful to the environment and can help you lower your carbon impact. Gear Up Women : Because 'Brown Rice' can be super benificial for you all~ Brown rice protein has a high rate of digestibility, which means the body can absorb and use it more readily than other plant-based proteins. For women who might have digestive problems or trouble digesting other protein sources, this is crucial. Additionally, studies have indicated that the protein in brown rice may specifically enhance women's hormones. It has substances known as lignans that have been demonstrated to have estrogenic effects on the body. For women who are exhibiting symptoms associated with hormone abnormalities, this may help regulate hormone levels. For women, brown rice protein is a healthy and advantageous source of protein. Incorporating it into a nutritious diet can bring substantial benefits, thanks to its high digestibility, rich fiber content, and potential hormonal effects.   In the realm of plant-based proteins, brown rice protein is a superstar and a true game-changer for women's hormonal health!

18 Jan 2024
The Whys and Hows

Star Citizens

Cheruvayal Raman: India’s ‘Living Paddy Gene Bank’

It was a momentous moment for Cheruvayal Raman, a tribal farmer dubbed India's ‘living paddy gene bank,’ when the Kerala government decided to confer upon him the coveted PK Kalan Prize for preserving indigenous customs. Raman is quite the star among food specialists and paddy promoters worldwide, despite the fact that this is the first time he has won state recognition for his work to save indigenous rice varieties from extinction. Ever since Raman received the prestigious Genome Savior Award six years ago, he was referred to as India's sole remaining paddy gene bank by rice researchers both inside and outside the nation. As Raman continues his work to protect 56 indigenous rice types, he has a long-held desire of having a permanent facility to save and disseminate his seeds. He has urged the government to step in and help protect the gene bank so that future generations can utilize it.  Raman and his wife Geeta inherited 40 rice varieties from their forefathers and they safeguard them even today. He has secured the rest of the seeds from different parts of the country. Their daughters Ramani and Rajitha, sons Ramesan and Rajesh, and son-in-law Rajesh have divided their rice fields into multiple separate sections so that each conserved rice variety can be cultivated without losing its uniqueness or character. Raman’s efforts deserve to be lauded and encouraged so that future generations too can benefit from these indigenous rice varieties which are more resistant to diseases and unfavorable climatic conditions than hybrid seeds.

6 Jan 2023
Star Citizens

Positive Reads

Five Ayurveda Herbs That Does Wonders to Your Health

An essential component of the ayurvedic medical system is the ayurvedic herb. Since ancient times, we have used these herbs to treat a variety of illnesses, foster mental clarity, increase immunity, and promote healthy skin, and hair and also for holistic treatments. Ayurveda allows for the treatment of the patient as a whole, not just their afflicted parts. In Ayurveda, thousands of plants with active components derived from leaves, roots, flowers, and bark have been used to heal disease as herbs have the power to bring the body and mind into harmony. The herbs Balance your dosha’s and provide complete relief from an existing illness. As it treats the body as a whole, other ailments also get cured as a side advantage. The herbs help to boost strength, vitality, and immunity. The following are some of the best and most effective ayurvedic herbs that have been in use for many years. Ashwagandha The term Ashwagandha is derived from the Sanskrit words Ashva, which means horse, and Gandha, which means smell. According to the conventional definition, it can provide the fortitude and power of a horse while supporting both the female and male neurological and reproductive systems. It is also known as "Indian ginseng" or "Winter Cherry." Typically, ayurvedic treatments made from ashwagandha roots are employed. Brahmi   Brahmi has been used especially to treat neurological conditions. It is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herb.  This plant's leaves are regarded as being exceptionally pure and powerful. Brahmi functions as a brain tonic, improving memory, focus, and intelligence as well as the neurological system. It is employed as a powerful antioxidant to get rid of cancer-causing cells. Shatavari The medicinal herb Shatavari has several great health advantages. Shatavari is aptly called the  "queen of herbs." Due to the presence of saponins, it has antioxidant qualities. It helps to boost one's immunity and is beneficial for the female reproductive system. It keeps blood sugar levels stable and regulates skin aging processes. Licorice  Since ancient times, licorice has been employed in Greek and Egyptian as well as Indian medical remedies. It is used in various products like herbal teas, sweets, capsules, and liquid extracts because of its sweet flavor. Licorice is used to treat food poisoning, stomach ulcers, and acid reflux. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-microbial, and anti-aging properties as well. Neem Neem is a popular herb known for its bitter flavor. It is derived from the Sanskrit word Nimba, which means "the bestower of good health.”  Various illnesses can be treated with neem's extraordinary healing properties. Ayurvedic medicines contain it in roughly 75% of formulations for  its antibacterial, anti-microbial, and antifungal qualities, in particular. It is also a strong blood purifier and detoxifier that is employed in the treatment of skin conditions including eczema and acne. Neem paste is excellent for  healthy hair and dandruff control.

29 Dec 2022
Positive Reads

Know Why This Rice Festival of Wayanad Is Significant for the People of India

A rice festival also called Ikki Jathre in local parlance was recently held in Wayanad whereby around 300 varieties of rice were planted on 1.5 acres of land. Thanal, a Kerala-based nonprofit, conducted this groundbreaking conservation experiment at its agroecology center in Panavally, Wayanad. With a collection of 30 different types of rice, Thanal started the Rice Diversity Block (RDB) at Panavally as part of the Save Our Rice campaign in 2009; it has since grown to 300 varieties. The aim of this festival is to make people aware of the importance of preserving traditional crops that can endure extreme weather conditions. The farmers would bring back seeds from the event and spread them by exchanging them with their friends when they got home from it. The consumption of traditional rice crops is currently being promoted.  The diverse types of rice are mostly sourced from Kerala, Karnataka, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Arunachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal. There are three traditional rice varieties from Vietnam and Thailand.  The campaign attempts to increase public awareness of the importance of protecting native crops that can withstand harsh weather. Additionally, the event provides a place for tribal farmers and subject matter experts to work together on knowledge creation and knowledge sharing. Due to climate change, crops have to undergo tough conditions like extreme heat, changing rainfall patterns, and floods. Therefore, it becomes imperative to promote indigenous variety of crops as they are proven to withstand harsh weather conditions.

20 Dec 2022
Positive Reads

Global Inspirations

Chinese scientists’ breakthrough can help solve hunger crisis

In a path-breaking development, Chinese scientists have been able to grow several types of rice in sea water. They have thus managed to potentially create enough food for 200 million people. The Chinese government has been investigating how to grow rice in salty waters since the 1970s. For decades, researchers have been trying to grow rice in saline waters, but only now they have developed varieties that are commercially viable. Scientists from the Qingdao Saline-Alkali Tolerant Rice Research and Development Center had expected to nearly triple yields, to 4.5 metric tons per hectare. However, their crops exceeded expectations, in one case delivering up to 9.3 tonnes per hectare. Liu Shiping, a professor of agriculture at Yangzhou University was delighted with the results saying that it has exceeded their expectations. The rice was grown in a field near the Yellow Sea coastal city of Qingdao in China’s eastern Shandong province. They planted 200 different types of the grain to test which would grow best in salty conditions. Seawater was pumped into the fields, diluted and then channelled into rice paddies. China has one million square kilometres of land where the salinity prevents crops from growing. Scientists hope that the development of new rice will allow some of this land to be used for agriculture.

26 Oct 2017
Global Inspirations

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