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Identification of non-basmati quality rices

Systemic research to identify ideal non-basmati varieties for export was undertaken under the same research network (Genetic Enhancement of Quality Rices for Higher Productivity and Export) at four research centres – Raipur, Aduthurai, Faizabad and Nellore – and one testing centre (Siruguppa). The twin strategies of research include identification of varieties suitable for export from among those released, and objective breeding for the quality traits sought by traditional rice-importing countries. The main selection criteria for the breeding programme are fineness of the grain, high head rice recovery, and preferred starch characteristics, which govern the cooking quality of rice (intermediate amylose and gelatinization temperature, soft gel consistency).

Among the 155 high-yielding varieties released in several states, 11 of the long slender and eight of the medium slender categories were rated as good in terms of quality, based on high head rice recovery and starch characteristics. IR 64, Prakash, Saleem, Krishna Hamsa and PR 106, from the long slender group, and Samba Mahsuri, Sona Mahsuri, Krishna Veni, Kavya, Kamini and White Ponni, from the medium slender group, were some of the notable varieties (Table 6) that can be exploited for export. A large volume of breeding material has been developed at the research centres and several lines that fulfil the quality parameters set forth in the objectives have been entered into coordinated trials for evaluation.