23 26th march,2018 daily global regional local rice e newsletter by DAILY RICE NEWS LETTER

23-26 (March,2018 )

Daily Global Regional Local Rice E-Newsletter Unedited Version www.riceplusmagazine.blogspot.com mujahid.riceplus@gmail.com Breakthrough in battle against rice blast March 26, 2018, University of Exeter Credit: Earth100/Wikipeidia

Scientists have found a way to stop the spread of rice blast, a fungus that destroys up to 30% of the world's rice crop each year. An international team led by the University of Exeter showed that chemical genetic inhibition of a single protein in the fungus stops it spreading inside a rice leaf - leaving it trapped within a single plant cell. The finding is a breakthrough in terms of understanding rice blast, a disease that is hugely important in terms of global food security. However, the scientists caution that this is a "fundamental" discovery - not a cure that can yet be applied outside the laboratory. The research revealed how the fungus can manipulate and then squeeze through natural channels (called plasmodesmata) that exist between plant cells. "This is an exciting breakthrough because we have discovered how the fungus is able to move stealthily between rice cells, evading recognition by the plant immune system," said senior author Professor Nick Talbot FRS, of the University of Exeter. "It is clearly able to suppress immune responses at pit fields (groups of plasmodesmata), and also regulate its own severe constriction to squeeze itself through such a narrow space.

"And all this is achieved by a single regulatory protein. It's a remarkable feat." Rice blast threatens global food security, destroying enough rice each year to feed 60 million people. It spreads within rice plants by invasive hyphae (branching filaments) which break through from cell to cell. In their bid to understand this process, the researchers used chemical genetics to mutate a signalling protein to make it susceptible to a specific drug. The protein, PMK1, is responsible for suppressing the rice's immunity and allowing the fungus to squeeze through pit fields - so, by inhibiting it, the researchers were able to trap the fungus within a cell. This level of precision led the team to discover that just one enzyme, called a MAP kinase, was responsible for regulating the invasive growth of rice blast. The research team hope this discovery will enable them to identify targets of this enzyme and thereby determine the molecular basis of this devastating disease. The research was led by Dr Wasin Sakulkoo, who recently received his PhD from Exeter. Dr Sakulkoo is a Halpin Scholar, a programme initiated by the generosity of Exeter alumni Les and Claire Halpin, which funds students from rice-growing regions of the world to study with Professor Talbot's research group. Dr Sakulkoo is from Thailand, and has returned home to a new position in industry following graduation.

Explore further: Study uncovers rice blast infection mechanism More information: Wasin Sakulkoo et al, A single fungal MAP kinase controls plant cell-to-cell invasion by the rice blast fungus, Science (2018). DOI: 10.1126/science.aaq0892 Read more at: https://phys.org/news/2018-03-breakthrough-rice-blast.html#jCp https://phys.org/news/2018-

03-breakthrough-rice-blast.html

Rice Prices as on : 26-03-2018 11:22:19 AM Arrivals in tonnes;prices in Rs/quintal in domestic market. Arrivals Current

Price % change

Season cumulative

Modal

Prev. Modal

Prev.Yr %change

Rice Bindki(UP)

600.00

18708.00

2240

Manjeri(Ker)

290.00

1740.00

3700

Bahraich(UP)

182.80

-13.98

2916.90

2200

-1.12

Muzzafarnagar(UP)

28.00

55.56

733.00

2690

2700

Cachar(ASM)

20.00

-50

1420.00

2400

9.09

Alipurduar(WB)

20.00

320.00

2750

3050

17.02

Jayas(UP)

18.00

-14.29

834.50

2070

2050

3.50

Khurja(UP)

9.00

-10

402.00

2600

Dibrugarh(ASM)

6.50

8.33

311.10

2400

6.67

Mirzapur(UP)

5.00

-28.57

267.50

2145

2140

Paliakala(UP)

4.00

-33.33

792.60

2165

2185

Chhibramau(Kannuj)(UP)

4.00

-33.33

184.50

2240

2250

Khairagarh(UP)

1.20

50.30

2500

-2.72

Jagnair(UP)

0.80

44.10

2500

2530

-2.72

Kasipur(WB)

0.51

-1.92

3.44

2610

11.06

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/rice-prices/article23353320.ece

Group warns PH vs ‘golden rice’: It’s not the solution to malnutrition By: Pathricia Ann V. Roxas- Reporter / @PathRoxasINQ INQUIRER.net / 04:00 PM March 26, 2018

A regional coalition of farmers, consumers, and environment activists has called on the government to reject ―foreign safety stamps‖ on the genetically-engineered ―golden rice,‖ which might pose risk to public health. The Stop Golden Rice Network asserted that such stamp of approval from other countries might be a ploy to exploit the nation‘s weak regulations and policy loopholes on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in order to have the golden rice released in the Philippines. In a statement, the coalition said the recent approval in foreign countries of the genetically-modified crop might soon lead to ―start feeding trials among children and pregnant women in Philippines and Bangladesh.‖ Health Canada posted its approval decision of GM Vitamin A enhanced ―Golden Rice‖ last March 16, 2018 amid public concerns, according to the group. The Network said the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) had also filed application for safety approval and trade clearance of golden rice last 2017 to the United States, Canada, and Australia. But these decisions, according to the group, are questionable. ―We also question why the International Rice Research Institute is seeking safety approval from Canada, Australia, and the US while farmers and consumers in Asia who plant and eat rice as a staple are left in the dark,‖ said Cris Panerio of Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura (Masipag), a farmers network in the Philippines and a member of the Network. ―Promoting readily available, diverse, and safe Vitamin A food sources from sustainable and ecological farming is the long term solution to combat malnutrition, ensure food security and health, not genetically modified crops like Golden Rice,‖ he added.

Launched in 2000, golden rice is genetically-engineered to produce beta-carotene, the precursor of Vitamin A, and touted to address malnutrition and Vitamin A Deficiency (VAD). Syngenta, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Rockefeller Foundation have poured millions of dollars to IRRI to develop Golden Rice in Bangladesh and the Philippines in 2011, according to the Network. But the group said controversies and conflict have impeded its release in the past two decades. Ana Bibal, campaign coordinator of the Network, said the approval of Health Canada and Food Standards Australia New Zealand of the golden rice was a ―product of corporate lobbying.‖ ―Scientific findings that questions its viability, safety, and intention were left out; and social concerns were not addressed. Golden Rice will not cure blindness nor address the complex social problem of malnutrition. Instead, Golden Rice commercialization in Asia will translate to unbridled profit, massive trade of unregulated GMO rice and promotion of biofortified GM crops,‖ she noted. The Stop Golden Rice! Network consists of organizations from more than 30 countries in Asia. /kga

Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/978209/group-warns-ph-vs-golden-rice-itsnot-the-solution-to-malnutrition#ixzz5Ar2Z4lsj Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook

First efficacy result delivers insecticide-driven boost for Bio-Gene By

Filip Karinja

March 26, 2018

Bio-Gene's Flavocide technology proven to be effective against rice pest, the brown planthopper.

Agriculture technology developer Bio-Gene Technology (ASX: BGT) has published a positive field trial for its Flavocide insecticide, when tested against the brown planthopper, a significant pest to rice farmers globally.

Bio-Gene’s CEO Richard Jagger spoke to Small Caps earlier this monthregarding the company’s current business model and future market intentions. One of its major goals is to prove the efficacy of both its synthetic and natural insecticides, with today’s field trial results substantiating Bio-Gene’s market strategy. The Flavocide field trial was performed by Eurofins, an international contract research organisation. It was undertaken in Thailand where rice crops are prone to high levels of planthopper infestations and have developed historically-high levels of insecticide resistance. The field trial showed that Flavocide is effective against young and mature planthoppers, and importantly, was found to be “superior to the existing chemistry used” given that control samples were treated with existing products already being used across the farming industry. Bio-Gene also reports its product “exhibited repellence effects that would potentially assist in preventing re-infestation and virus transmission” and said that it had “no observable impact on beneficial species such as predatory mirids and spiders). According to Bio-Gene, the field trial provides partial indication that its Flavocide product can be integrated into existing pest management programs which often involve multiple products as standard. “These are positive and encouraging results that demonstrate the potential of Flavocide for control of a major rice pest, particularly in Asia, and provides justification for further evaluation to fine-tune dose rates and further demonstrate efficacy in a range of field conditions,” said Richard Jagger, CEO of Bio-Gene.

“The results also highlight that, like other insecticides, Flavocide may have differing effects against different pests which justifies our strategy of evaluating Flavocide as widely as possible across pest species both alone and in combination with other insecticides,” Mr Jagger said.

Hopping for insecticides Planthoppers penetrate the tissues of their rice host plants and ingest the plant’s nutrients, but obstructing the plant’s inner vessels which causes yellowing of leaves, wilting, drying and eventual plant death. An increasing population density of planthoppers eventually leads to the socalled “hopperburn” effect whereby clusters of brown dead plants give the impression that a particular area has been burned. Furthermore, planthoppers cause major damage to Asian rice crops resulting in yield losses of up to 60% or more, sometimes completely destroying the crop. In addition to direct plant damage, this pest is also an important vector of viral diseases of rice. Its presence also promotes the growth of sooty mould which negatively impacts plant growth and further reduces grain yields. According to market research conducted by Kynetec Research in 2016, an estimated A$3.7 billion is spent on rice insecticides globally, with a large proportion specifically aimed towards control of Planthopper populations. The global agribusiness industry is a colossus with a huge influence on several sectors and industries.

According to research conducted by McKinsey & Company, a US-based market research company, agribusiness has become a US$5 trillion industry accounting for 10% of global consumer spending, 40% of all employment, and 30% of all greenhouse-gas emissions. “Rice is the staple food of half of the world’s population and more than 90% of the global rice crop is grown in Asia. The Planthopper is a major pest that has been increasingly difficult to control, largely due to its resistance to most insecticides available for use .The unique mode of action of Flavocide offers the opportunity to control these resistant strains, where other chemistry is failing. This, along with having no impact on beneficial species, is a real positive towards inclusion in integrated pest management programs, which is of great value to the industry,” said Mr Jagger. https://smallcaps.com.au/first-efficacy-result-insecticide-boost-bio-gene-technology/

Rice Flour Market Research, Growth Opportunities, Key Players, Outlook and Forecasts Report 2017-2022 March 25, 2018 - by amit.p Global Rice Flour Market Report provides important information related to the overall market and price forecast over a five-year period, from 2017 to 2022. In this bit, the experts have offered essential figures which relates to the production and consumption forecast for the major regions that the market is categorized into, production forecast by type, and consumption forecast by application. Rice Flour Market report presents the detail analysis of the parent market based on elite players, present, past and futuristic data which will serve as a profitable guide for all the Rice Flour industry competitors. Major companies are as follows:Burapa Prosper ,Thai Flour Industry ,Rose brand ,CHO HENG ,Koda Farms ,Hok Seng Rice Flour ,Lhian Thai Rice Vermicelli ,BIF ,Lieng tong ,Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods .

Ask for Sample PDF @ https://www.absolutereports.com/enquiry/requestsample/11214551 Global Rice Flour market is booming into the Chemicals & Materials sector at present era. The Rice Flour has covered rapid development in the current and past years and is probably going to proceed with a continuing development in the upcoming years. With thorough market segment in terms of different Countries, this report divides the market into a few key countries, with sales (consumption), revenue, market share, and growth rate of the market in these countries over the forecast period 2017-2022. Major classifications are as follows: Brown Rice Flour Glutinous rice flour. Major applications are as follows: Rice noodle and Rice pasta Sweets and Desserts Snacks & more. Geographical Segmentation of Rice Flour Market: Europe, North America, China, Japan, Southeast Asia. Have Any Query or Specific Requirement? Ask to Our Industry Expert @ https://www.absolutereports.com/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/11214551 The Report features key market flow of division. Various definitions and classification of the industry, applications of the industry and chain structure are given. The present market situation and prospects of the sector also have been examined. Additionally, prime strategical activities in the market, which includes product developments, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, etc., are discussed. Some TOC points of Rice Flour Market Report:    

Market size & shares Market trends and dynamics Market Drivers and Opportunities Competitive landscape

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Supply and demand Technological inventions in Rice Flour industry Marketing Channel Development Trend Rice Flour Market Positioning Pricing Strategy Brand Strategy Target Client

Key Reasons to Purchase:     

To gain insightful analyses of the market and have comprehensive understanding of the global Rice Flour market and its commercial landscape. Assess the Rice Flour production processes, major issues, and solutions to mitigate the development risk. To understand the most affecting driving and restraining forces in the Rice Flour market and its impact in the global market. Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by leading respective organizations. To understand the future outlook and prospects for Rice Flour market.

No. of Report Pages: 184 Price of Report: $3500 (Single User) Purchase This Report@ http://www.absolutereports.com/purchase/11214551 In conclusion, Rice Flour market 2017 report presents the descriptive analysis of the parent market based on elite players, present, past and futuristic data which will serve as a profitable guide for all the Rice Flour industry competitors https://businessservices24.com/159580/rice-flour-market-research-growth-opportunities-keyplayers-outlook-and-forecasts-report-2017-2022/

BTr: NG disbursed subsidies reached P922M in January

By Rea Cu March 25, 2018

THE national government (NG) reported disbursed subsidies amounting to P922 million for January this year, with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) receiving bulk of the disbursement totalling P426 million. Based on the latest data from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), the government allotted subsidies amounting to P922 million during the first month of this year, which contracted by 27.17 percent from the P1.266 billion in subsidies disbursed for January 2017. Broken down, the biggest recipient for the month was the NIA, which was given P426 million, a contraction of 42.81 percent from the P745 million provided in the same month for 2017. The other major nonfinancial government corporation that received a subsidy from the government for the month was the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) with P6 million. Among the government-owned and -controlled corporations, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) received the biggest amount of P119 million. It did not receive subsidies from the government in January 2017. The Philippine Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Center also received subsidies amounting to P78 million, the Philippine Heart Center was allocated P72 million, the Philippine Rice Research Institute (Philrice) received P60 million, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute was given P49 million, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions got P32 million, the Cultural Center of the Philippines was provided P21 million, the Lung Center of the Philippines received P20 million, and the Philippine Institute for Development Studies was allocated P11 million for the month.

Other agencies that received subsidies included the Philippine Television Network Inc. with P6 million; the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) with P5 million; the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care with P5 million; and the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority, Southern Philippines Development Authority, and the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority each received P4 million. One of the campaign promises under the Duterte administration was the provision of free irrigation in rural areas and improved healthcare or universal health care to all Filipinos, among others. https://businessmirror.com.ph/btr-ng-disbursed-subsidies-reached-p922m-in-january/

State subsidies drop by 27% in January Published March 25, 2018, 10:01 PM

By Chino S. Leyco State subsidies to government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) declined by more than a quarter in the first month of the year, data from the Bureau of the Treasury revealed. Government financial assistance given to 16 state-owned companies amounted to P922 million in January this year, down 27 percent compared with P1.26 billion in the same month last year. According to the Treasury report, the largest recipient of government subsidy was the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) with P426 million, representing 46.2 percent of the total disbursements. NIA was followed by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., commonly known as PhilHealth, with P119 million, along with Philippine Children Medical Center (P78 million), Philippine Heart Center (P72 million), and Philippine Rice Research Institute (P60 million). Other recipient of state subsidies were National Kidney and Transplant Institute (P49 million), Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (P32 million), Cultural Center of the Philippines (P21 million), and Lung Center of the Philippines (P20 million). The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (P11 million), Light Rail Transit Authority (P6 million), Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Television Network (P6 million), Philippine Coconut Authority (P5 million), and Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (P5 million) also received subsidies.

Lastly, the Southern Philippines Development Authority and Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone got P4 million each from the national government in January this year. For 2018, the national government earmarked a record P162.55 billion in financial aid for GOCCs and government financial institutions (GFIs), up by 24 percent compared with the projected P131.09-billion disbursements last year. The increase in attributed to the government‘s non-recurring expenses on the conditional cash-transfer (CCT) program being facilitated by the Land Bank of the Philippines, which aims to support Filipino households that will be affected by the proposed tax reform package. Aside from the CCT, the government has also tapped the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to help in funding the planned public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization. The Land Bank and DBP are traditionally non-recipient of monetary aid from the national government as these two state-owned lenders are members of the so-called ―Billionaires‘ Club,‖ an elite class of GOCCs that declare P1 billion or more in dividends annually. The budget department is allocating P25.62 billion in subsidies for Land Bank this year and another P1.13 billion for the DBP. Tags: Bureau of the Treasury, Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, Government financial assistance, Light Rail Transit Authority, Lung Center of the Philippines, National Irrigation Administration, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine Coconut Authority, Philippine Health Insurance Corp., Philippine Heart Center, Philippine Rice Research Institute, Southern Philippines Development Authority, State subsidies drop by 27% in January

State subsidies drop by 27% in January Published March 25, 2018, 10:01 PM

Other recipient of state subsidies were National Kidney and Transplant Institute (P49 million), Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (P32 million), Cultural Center of the Philippines (P21 million), and Lung Center of the Philippines (P20 million). The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (P11 million), Light Rail Transit Authority (P6 million), People‘s Television Network (P6 million), Philippine Coconut Authority (P5 million), and Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (P5 million) also received subsidies. Lastly, the Southern Philippines Development Authority and Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone got P4 million each from the national government in January this year. For 2018, the national government earmarked a record P162.55 billion in financial aid for GOCCs and government financial institutions (GFIs), up by 24 percent compared with the projected P131.09-billion disbursements last year. The increase in attributed to the government‘s non-recurring expenses on the conditional cash-transfer (CCT) program being facilitated by the Land Bank of the Philippines, which aims to support Filipino households that will be affected by the proposed tax reform package. Aside from the CCT, the government has also tapped the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to help in funding the planned public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization. The Land Bank and DBP are traditionally non-recipient of monetary aid from the national government as these two state-owned lenders are members of the so-called ―Billionaires‘ Club,‖ an elite class of GOCCs that declare P1 billion or more in dividends annually. The budget department is allocating P25.62 billion in subsidies for Land Bank this year and another P1.13 billion for the DBP. Tags: Bureau of the Treasury, Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, Government financial assistance, Light Rail Transit Authority, Lung Center of the Philippines, National Irrigation Administration, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine Coconut Authority, Philippine Health Insurance Corp., Philippine Heart Center, Philippine Rice Research Institute, Southern Philippines Development Authority, State subsidies drop by 27% in January

https://business.mb.com.ph/2018/03/25/state-subsidies-drop-by-27-in-january/

Researchers find way to stop spread of devastating rice fungus

IANS | London Last Updated at March 26, 2018 11:30 IST

have discovered a way to stop the spread of rice blast, a fungus that destroys up to 30 per cent of the world's rice crop each year. The researchers found that chemical genetic inhibition of a single protein in the fungus stops it from spreading inside a rice leaf -- leaving it trapped within a single plant cell. The finding, published in the journal Science, could mark a major advance in understanding rice blast, a disease that is hugely important in terms of global food security. The research revealed how the fungus can manipulate and then squeeze through natural channels (called plasmodesmata) that exist between plant cells. "This is an exciting breakthrough because we have discovered how the fungus is able to move stealthily between rice cells, evading recognition by the plant immune system," said senior author Professor Nicholas Talbot of the University of Exeter in Britain. "It is clearly able to suppress immune responses at pit fields (groups of plasmodesmata), and also regulate its own severe constriction to squeeze itself through such a narrow space," Talbot said. "And all this is achieved by a single regulatory protein. It's a remarkable feat," he added. However, the scientists caution that this is a "fundamental" discovery -- not a cure that can yet be applied outside the laboratory. Rice blast threatens global food security, destroying enough rice each year to feed 60 million people. It spreads within rice plants by invasive hyphae (branching filaments) which break through from cell to cell. In their bid to understand this process, the researchers used chemical genetics to mutate a signalling protein to make it susceptible to a specific drug.

The protein, PMK1, is responsible for suppressing the rice's immunity and allowing the fungus to squeeze through pit fields. So, by inhibiting it, the researchers were able to trap the fungus within a cell. This level of precision led the team to discover that just one enzyme, called a MAP kinase, was responsible for regulating the invasive growth of rice blast. The research team hope this discovery will enable them to identify targets of this enzyme and thereby determine the molecular basis of this devastating disease. he of http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/researchers-find-way-to-stop-spread-ofdevastating-rice-fungus-118032600222_1.html.

Focus on basmati a must to boost export earnings Mohiuddin AazimUpdated March 26, 2018

RICE exporters are lobbying for geographical indication (GI) for basmati grown in Pakistan to boost its exports and overall earnings.Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has only recently promised to resolve this longstanding issue. Once exporters get all basmati varieties grown in the country covered under the GI law, they can protect themselves against Dubai-based Indian trading houses that buy different Pakistani rice varieties on the cheap and sell them to global markets under Indian brand names. On prime minister‘s instructions, the federal cabinet has already authorised the commerce division to initiate legislation on GI. How long it will take to do so and whether this government whose term will expire shortly will be able to make a GI law is anybody‘s guess. In addition to intensely lobbying for the passage of the much-needed law, the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) has also been aggressively pursuing potential buyers of Pakistani basmati rice. Rafique Suleman, vice chairman of the association, recently unveiled plans for taking a delegation to Saudi Arabia and organising a festival there to promote basmati rice. Certain issues continue to impede growth of basmati rice, including the absence of a geographical indication law and a lack of penetration of enough brands of basmati in export markets In February, REAP held International Buyers‘ Recognition Award in the United Arab Emirates. The event has helped in boosting sales of basmati rice there, exporters say. According to a recent Dawn report, our GI law has been pending for 17 years owing to differences between various lobby groups. Apart from basmati, the passage of such a law will also help increase exports of other products, including Sargodha‘s kinno. Why geographical indication

According to the World Trade Organisation‘s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), a GI certificate establishes the territory of origin of a particular product. ―Once the basmati rice variety, for example, is certified under the GI law, it will officially become known as Pakistani basmati. And that will help us lodge complaints with the world trade body if that particular variety‘s name is misused by another nation,‖ explains a leading Karachibased rice exporter. Recently, some Indian exporters reportedly moved to export a large quantity of Pakistani-origin rice to Indonesia under an Indian brand name. REAP officials brought this to the notice of the government, but nothing could be done to block the exports in the absence of proper GI laws. Game-changer Larger shipments of basmati varieties that are mostly exported under brand names, in retail and semi-wholesale packaging and their foreign buyers include superstores, fetch higher per-unit price than non-basmati varieties. Currently, the share of basmati varieties in our total volumes of rice shipments is low. According to stats compiled by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, basmati shipments during the first half of this fiscal year amounted to 11.2pc of total rice shipments of all kinds. For several years, this share has remained below 15pc, officials of TDAP confirm. Once export volumes of basmati go up, the country can expect a faster and bigger increase in export earnings of rice. So, boosting basmati exports can be a game-changer for Pakistani rice exports.

Forex earnings of rice are expected to touch $2bn mark this fiscal year. During the first eight months, $1.224bn already came in, according to REAP. Exports of basmati constitute roughly 22pc of total rice export earnings — double its share in rice export volumes. Key issues Certain issues continue to impede growth of basmati rice, including the absence of a GI law, lack of penetration of enough brands of basmati in export markets, an unscrupulous practice prevailing among traders who agree to sell basmati varieties to Indian traders on the condition that the packaging would not bear signs of origin and the continuation of basmati exports also in bulk that fetch lower per-unit price. Officials of REAP seem to have rolled up their sleeves and trying to address all these and similar issues with the help of government agencies concerned and our foreign trade offices. But growing domestic demand for basmati rice in our fast-expanding food industry and among upper middle-class and upper class households and slower than desired increase in local output also have a direct bearing on exports. Production of basmati varieties, after falling below 2m tonnes in 2012-13, has shown a gradual rise to hit an estimated 2.5m tonnes in 2015-16, according to a senior official of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research. ―Even at this level the basmati output is slightly more than one-third of our total rice production (of 7m tonnes). Whereas, it‘s important to push basmati production further, its share in exports even at the current level of output can be enhanced,‖ he insists.

But citing reasons of growing domestic demand, exporters say that unless the country is able to boost output of basmati at an annual rate close to 10pc for some years from now, export earnings growth will remain low. Per-unit value But what if the production of basmati does not grow fast enough to create enough exportable surplus after meeting increasing local demand? Exporters must then find room for enhancing per-unit price of basmati exports. During the first half of this fiscal year, the average export value of basmati varieties rose about 9pc to $1,012 per tonne from $930 per tonne a year ago. However, this happened amid a general recovery in prices in the global rice market and average price of non-basmati rice also showed about 11pc increase, from $364 per tonne in the first half of 2016-17 to about $404 per tonne this year, according to TDAP officials. One way of boosting the per-unit value of basmati could be to enhance high-end sales to famous chains of superstores. ―That requires strong and well-established branding, strict compliance to all applicable rules of business, more attractive and custom-made, environment-friendly packaging,‖ says an official of Matco Foods, a well-known rice company that recently got listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. Currently, Pakistan‘s basmati rice market is too heavily concentrated in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. Exporters acknowledge the need for expanding the market base and many of them agree that with a little support of the government they can market large amounts of basmati rice to Afghanistan, Iran and some Central Asian and North African nations. ―We lost the Iranian market to Indians when Iran was under US sanctions. Indians made barter trade a reality while we just kept talking about it,‖ laments an official of HAS Rice, another leading rice exporting company.

Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, March 26th, 2018 https://www.dawn.com/news/1397460/focus-on-basmati-a-must-to-boost-export-earnings

Siebenmorgen receives Distinguished Service Award Mar 24, 2018

Fast Facts: Rice Technical Working Group recognizes Dr. Terry Siebenmorgen’s career service Siebenmorgen built and leads the Division of Agriculture’s Rice Processing Program Program aims to improve post-harvest processing for rice FAYETTEVILLE — Terry Siebenmorgen, director of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture‘s Rice Processing Program, received the Rice Technical Working Group Distinguished Service Award at the organization‘s biennial meeting last month in Long Beach, Calif. The award recognizes Siebenmorgen‘s career-long research to improve post-harvest rice processing. http://newtoncountytimes.com/news/siebenmorgen-receives-distinguished-serviceaward/article_140677c4-2eb4-11e8-adc8-ff39b31852fa.html

Gene boosts rice growth and yield in salty soil

Members of the research team collecting samples in a rice paddy field in Changsha, China. Image credit: Jianzhong Lin Around 20% of the world's irrigated land is considered to contain elevated concentrations of salt, and the soil continues to get saltier as the climate warms. Agricultural production is hard hit by soil salinity; salt stress reduces the growth and yield of most plants, resulting in billions of dollars in crop yield losses annually. Rice--the staple food of more than half the world's population--is particularly sensitive to salty soil, with even moderate levels of salt resulting in substantial yield losses. There is thus an urgent need to develop rice lines that can withstand salty conditions. A team of scientists led by Jian-Zhong Lin and XuanMing Liu of Hunan University in Changsha, China recently identified a gene that contributes to salt stress tolerance in rice. The gene, which they named STRK1 (salt tolerance receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase 1), was activated under salt stress conditions. The researchers generated two sets of transgenic plants, one in which STRK1 was expressed at high levels, and the other in which expression was greatly reduced. Under regular growth conditions, both sets of transgenic plants appeared normal. However, when challenged with salt, the transgenic plants with elevated STRK1 expression were greener and larger than the nontransgenic control plants, and those with reduced levels of STRK1 expression were smaller and browner than the controls. Next, the team examined the effect of STRK1 on yield. "Notably, overexpression of STRK1 in rice not only improved growth but also markedly limited the grain yield loss under salt stress conditions," said Jian-Zhong Lin.

The team then turned their attention to deciphering the mechanism by which STRK1 enhances the plant's tolerance to salt. Salt stress triggers the production of potentially harmful reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide, in plant cells. The group found that STRK1 (the protein encoded by STRK1) interacts with and activates a protein named CatC, which belongs to a family of proteins that decomposes hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Thus, STRK1 increases the plant's tolerance to salt stress by keeping the levels of hydrogen peroxide in check, and thereby minimizing the damage caused by accumulating reactive oxygen species. These exciting findings bring the research community closer to developing rice plants that thrive in salty soil. "Agricultural productivity is increasingly threatened by the salinization of irrigated farmland...Our work demonstrates that STRK1 is a promising candidate gene for protection of yield in crop plants exposed to salt stress," stated Xuan-Ming Liu. http://www.sciencecodex.com/gene-boosts-rice-growth-and-yield-salty-soil-619842

Rice: Nigeria can’t meet 2018 self-sufficiency target March 25, 2018 By Paul Ogbuokiri

…still major destination of Thailand, Indian rice •Produced 5.8mmts, consumed 7.9mmts in 2017–RIFAN •Import rose by 19% to 2.5mmts–USDA Self-sufficiency in rice production is one of the cardinal objectives of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration with different officials calling for a ban on the importation of the cereal.

Two years ago, Buhari set 2018 as a target to end Nigeria‘s status as the world‘s second-largest importer of the grain after China and become self-sufficient. He‘s since overseen investments of almost $1 billion in farming and milling, virtually banned rice importers from buying foreign exchange, raised tariffs to as high as 60 per cent and pushed the Central Bank of Nigeria to lend to farmers. Confident his administration is making progress, he told growers this month that ―our policies are working.‖

Earlier in August 2017, a director at the agriculture ministry, Muhammad Adamu, had made unsubstantiated claim that Nigeria‘s rice production reached 15 million metric tonnes annually.

Bloomberg in a report on Wednesday quoted the U.S Department of Agriculture as saying that Nigeria grew just 3.7 million metric tonnes of rice in 2017, which is a paltry 4 per cent increase from a year earlier. At the same time, imports rose by 19 per cent to 2.5 million metric tonnes, the USDA said.

This came as the president of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Aminu Goronyo said while Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s rice consumption rose to 7.9 million metric tonnes in 2017, the country was only able to produce 5.8million metric tonnes in the review year.

He said the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s production increased from 5.5 million tonnes in 2015.

He said in 2015, Nigerians spent not less than N1billion on rice importation, adding that while spending had drastically reduced, consumption had increased because of increased local production of the commodity.

As the debate over what the country actually produces rages, some analysts say as the country consumed 6.4 million metric tonnes in the review year; it may have produced about 5.5 million metric tonnes.

Despite these conflicting figures, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh said Nigeria will become self-sufficient in rice production before the end of 2018.

According to him, importation of rice into the country had dropped by 95 per cent in the last two years.

He disclosed this in Abuja at the first Annual NACCIMA-NIRSAL Agribusiness and Policy Linkage Conference, which has ―Implementing the Agriculture Component of the Economic Recovery Growth Plan‘ as its theme.

The minister said the country has made a lot of success in terms of stopping rice importation adding that this has led to creation of more jobs for the people.

He said, ―One example of our success is in rice. By September 2015, this country was importing 644,131 tons of rice. Exactly two years later that is September 2017, rice importation dropped to 20, 000 metric tonnes. ―That is a drop of 95 per cent. However, smugglers have been busy trying to sabotage and compromise the country‘s effort to stop importation. ―There are 12.2 million people growing rice in the country, producing paddy for the rice mills.

―In Kano alone, we have 1,421 rice mills. We have large fields in Anambra, Ebonyi, Nasarawa, Jigawa, kebbi and more are coming up.‖

Ogbeh said this was achieved because of the Federal Government‘s policy to stop importation But the numbers tell a different story: they suggest smuggling is rife because local producers are struggling to meet growing demand in the nation of 180 million people, where rice is favoured over traditional staples such as yams and cassava by an increasingly urbanized population.

Many imports are smuggled in from Benin, which despite a population of 11 million — barely 5 per cent of Nigeria‘s population — is now the world‘s biggest buyer of rice from Thailand, the number two exporter globally. Official shipments to Nigeria have plummeted by more than 95 per cent in the past four years, while those to Benin have surged, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association.

To this end, the Managing Director of AgroNigeria, Richard Mbaram says that achieving selfsufficiency in the next couple of years is merely a ―pipe dream‖.

―Rice production isn‘t willed into existence. It is cultivated and systematically sown.

―There is research; there is mechanization; warehousing and storage. There is market opening and market access.

―You cannot drive industrialisation or agro-industrialisation without connecting the farm gate where the production is happening. Do we have that? We‘re very far back in terms of achieving that,‖ he said.

It will be recalled that the recent claim by Chief Audu Ogbeh on the fall of rice mills in Thailand was quickly refuted by Wattana Kunwongse, Thailand‘s Ambassador to Nigeria.

The minister has allegedly said that the Thailand Ambassador accused Nigeria of being responsible for the collapse of its seven rice mills following the drastic fall in rice importation from the country.

The ambassador described the minister‘s claim as ―misleading and a distortion of the actual discussion that transpired between them‖.

A News Agency of Nigeria report showed that Ogbeh made the claim, at a meeting of the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI) and the leadership of the Fertiliser Producers and Suppliers of Nigeria (FEPSAN) held at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

According to the report, the minister said, ―Just like two weeks ago, the Ambassador of Thailand came to my office and said to me that we have really ‗dealt‘ with them.

―But I asked what did we do wrong and he said unemployment in Thailand was one of the lowest in the world, 1.2 per cent, it has gone up to 4 per cent because seven giant rice mills have shut down because Nigeria‘s import has fallen by 95 per cent on rice alone‖. However, the diplomat said Ogbeh lied. ―The report is not only misleading but a distortion of the actual conversation between myself and the Honourable Minister of Agriculture at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on January 30, 2018, which was nothing short of positivity and optimism on both side‖.

He added that the report could not have been farther from the truth as Thailand‘s official figures demonstrate that its rice export to the world in 2017 reached 11.48 million tons worth $5.1 billion.

―Thailand‘s rice export to the world in 2017 (January-December 2017) reached 11.48 million metric tonnes equal to $5.1 billion (USD), a 15.54 per cent increase compared to previous years, which is one of the highest figures on the history Thailand‘s rice exportation. There is no proof of any shutdown of Thailand‘s major rice mills,‖ he said.

Meanwhile, Rice consumption in Nigeria is almost entirely of parboiled rice. In West Africa only Nigeria consumes parboiled rice. Other West African countries including all the neighbouring countries to Nigeria (Niger, Benin, Cameroon and Chad) are not consumers of parboiled rice.

In Africa only South Africa is the other major country that consumes parboiled rice.

The shipments of parboiled rice from India and Thailand into Lome, Cotonou and Douala ports is a very fair estimate of smuggled rice into Nigeria as none of these countries have internal consumption of parboiled rice. All the imports of parboiled rice into these countries finally find their way into Nigeria.

It is against this backdrop that the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh has warned that smuggling of parboiled rice from across the borders (mainly Benin Republic) is creating a major disaster for the rice industry in Nigeria.

Ogbeh, gave the warning recently while speaking to journalists on some of the Federal Government‘s achievements in the agriculture sector in the last two years in Abuja.

He said the decision become necessary to encourage local rice farmers and to enable the country achieve self-sufficiency in rice by 2018.

―We believe they are determined to sabotage the efforts that we are making to guarantee selfsufficiency in rice and to save foreign exchange which we don‘t have.

―They insist on bringing in rice through the land borders, avoiding the duties and the levies we put on them and they are definitely bent on sabotaging our efforts and we are getting increasingly unhappy with them.

―And I must say that very soon, if they persist, we will take very nasty measures against them.

―We will like to advise our neighbours, who believe that the ECOWAS treaty means that Nigeria is a volunteer nation for economic suicide.

―We have no such plans, destroying our own economy to make any neighbour happy.

―The ECOWAS treaty number two does not suggest that any country can be an avenue of smuggling foreign goods not produced in that country for dumping in his neighbours territory.

―If they insist, I do not think that government is far away from considering permanently closing certain borders very near us and when we do, nothing will make us change our minds on the issue, ECOWAS treaty or not,‖ Ogbeh warned.

The Chairman Senate Committee on Customs, Excise and Tariff, Sen. Hope Uzodinma penultimate week has called on relevant agencies of the government to check rice smuggling to enhance Nigerian economic development. https://newtelegraphonline.com/2018/03/rice-nigeria-cant-meet-2018-self-sufficiency-target/

Silver linings in the economy: Increased agricultural and industrial production and export growth Despite the recent gloom cast by the communal violence that threatened several key sectors of the economy, there are some bright spots emerging in the economy. Improved paddy harvests, prospects of increased tea production, increased industrial production and a further growth in exports are favourable developments that should result in higher economic growth this year.

On the other hand, the setback to tourism, decreasing remittances, lower foreign investment and possible net capital outflows will affect the economy adversely. The sooner peaceful conditions are established and confidence generated in the country these drawbacks could be mitigated. Economic populism Economic growth in the next few years could be seriously affected owing to the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s economic policies being geared to gain popularity. Economic populism could have an adverse impact on mid and long run economic growth, especially owing to an increase in the fiscal deficit. Fiscal slippage and lack of essential reforms may jeopardise midterm economic growth. Agriculture Agricultural production is likely to revive owing to better paddy and food crop production, as well as increased tea production on estates and small holdings. Coconut output may not increase by much owing to the lag effect of the drought. Good harvests After two years of floods and drought that brought down paddy and food crop production drastically and necessitated rice imports, indications are that the 2018 maha harvest that is being reaped these days would be a good, though not a bountiful one. The maha harvest is expected to be 2.32 million kilograms. It is 57 percent higher than the depressed output of last year, but 17 percent less than the maha harvest of 2015/16.

The likely good weather this year, the better distribution of fertiliser and subsidies are likely to boost the yala harvest. The yala crop is likely to be much higher than in recent years. This year‘s paddy production is forecast to reach 601 metric tons compared to only 543 metric tons last year. In 2016 paddy production was a record 766 metric tons. Respite Increased food production is a relief to the economy as it implies reduced imports of rice and wheat this year and a decrease in rice prices that soared last year. Apart from the advantages to the economy, good harvests mean better incomes to the rural community and a relief to the livelihoods of a substantial proportion of the county‘s population. The reduction in food prices would also be a boon to the lower income sections of the population. Inflation is expected to decelerate to about 5 percent later this year. Tea There is an expectation of higher tea production owing to better weather and the availability of fertiliser and weedicides. The increased tea production is likely to be mostly from smallholdings in the south. The consequent increase in the exportable tea surplus should improve export earnings provided international tea prices remain at current levels. The current predictions are that prices would be steady at around last year‘s attractive levels. Tea exports In keeping with the increasing trend in exports later last year, tea exports grew by 11 percent to US$111 million in January this year. Hopefully this trend would gain momentum with the expected higher production of tea. Industrial production There was a significant industrial growth in the fourth quarter of last year. The growth in ceramics, garments, rubber and leather goods is likely to continue as this growth, stimulated by better export prospects is expected to grow during the course of the year.

The Central Bank‘s Purchasing Managers‘ Index (PMI) Survey disclosed that manufacturing and service sectors expanded at a higher rate in February 2018, compared to the previous month. Several sub-indices too disclosed a growth. Services A steeper gain was observed in the business activities of the financial services, IT programming and transportation of goods and warehousing sectors. Service providers‘ optimism on the threemonth business outlook also strengthened at a modest pace. Export growth Export growth that commenced in March last year has been gaining momentum. In 2017 exports increased by 11.4 percent and this trend is continuing with an export growth of 6.2 percent in January. Exports of rubber and finished rubber products increased by 19 percent to earn US$75 million. The Export Development Board (EDB) expects exports to increase to US$15 billion. An export value of US$13 billion that is more realistic would be significant. The EDB expects growth in industrial exports, mostly garments and textiles, ceramics, rubber and leather goods, to result in total exports of US$15 billion. Much of this expectation of export growth is based on the improving trend in exports over the last months and the export growth in January this year of 6.23 percent to US$934 million. The government‘s target is to achieve exports of one billion in each month. Textiles and garments Apparel and textile exports grew by a modest 1.8 per cent to reach US$433 million in January. However, a double digit growth is expected in apparel exports in the coming months as apparel exporters were fulfilling orders received prior to getting the GSP plus. Sri Lanka‘s textile and garments exports exceeded US$5 billion during 2017, its highest-ever value for a single year, recording a 3 per cent growth compared to US$4.88 billion a year ago. The Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association targets US$8 billion in apparel exports by 2022. Summing up While there are some economic gains this year, these should not blind us to the loss due to the communal violence that could affect the economy adversely for some time. Every effort must be made to build confidence, peaceful conditions and law and order in the country to restore tourism. Any recurrence would be the death knell to this valuable source of foreign exchange earnings. Investment both foreign and domestic have been adversely affected. Restoring confidence among foreign investors is an uphill task, and without larger amounts of FDI in manufactures, the country‘s export capacity cannot be enhanced. The setback to the economy cannot be reversed easily. While the gains in economic growth this year is a relief, the longer term growth remains below the needed momentum. Furthermore populist economic policies could destabilise the economy and retard economic growth. http://www.sundaytimes.lk/180325/columns/silver-linings-in-the-economy-increasedagricultural-and-industrial-production-and-export-growth-287578.html

Breakthrough in battle against rice blast UNIVERSITY OF EXETER Scientists have found a way to stop the spread of rice blast, a fungus that destroys up to 30% of the world's rice crop each year.An international team led by the University of Exeter showed that chemical genetic inhibition of a single protein in the fungus stops it spreading inside a rice leaf leaving it trapped within a single plant cell.The finding is a breakthrough in terms of understanding rice blast, a disease that is hugely important in terms of global food security. However, the scientists caution that this is a "fundamental" discovery - not a cure that can yet be applied outside the laboratory. The research revealed how the fungus can manipulate and then squeeze through natural channels (called plasmodesmata) that exist between plant cells. "This is an exciting breakthrough because we have discovered how the fungus is able to move stealthily between rice cells, evading recognition by the plant immune system," said senior author Professor Nick Talbot FRS, of the University of Exeter. "It is clearly able to suppress immune responses at pit fields (groups of plasmodesmata), and also regulate its own severe constriction to squeeze itself through such a narrow space. "And all this is achieved by a single regulatory protein. It's a remarkable feat." Rice blast threatens global food security, destroying enough rice each year to feed 60 million people. It spreads within rice plants by invasive hyphae (branching filaments) which break through from cell to cell.In their bid to understand this process, the researchers used chemical genetics to mutate a signalling protein to make it susceptible to a specific drug. The protein, PMK1, is responsible for suppressing the rice's immunity and allowing the fungus to squeeze through pit fields - so, by inhibiting it, the researchers were able to trap the fungus within a cell.

This level of precision led the team to discover that just one enzyme, called a MAP kinase, was responsible for regulating the invasive growth of rice blast. The research team hope this discovery will enable them to identify targets of this enzyme and thereby determine the molecular basis of this devastating disease. The research was led by Dr Wasin Sakulkoo, who recently received his PhD from Exeter. Dr Sakulkoo is a Halpin Scholar, a programme initiated by the generosity of Exeter alumni Les and Claire Halpin, which funds students from rice-growing regions of the world to study with Professor Talbot's research group. Dr Sakulkoo is from Thailand, and has returned home to a new position in industry following graduation. ### The project involved state-of-the-art live cell imaging procedures pioneered at Exeter by postdoctoral fellow Dr George Littlejohn, who is now a lecturer at Plymouth University, and electron microscopy specialists Christian Hacker and Ana Correia. The research was also an international effort involving collaborators from Kansas State University, Dr Barbara Valent and Dr Ely Oliviera Garcia, and former Marie Curie Fellow Dr Miriam Oses-Ruiz. The work was funded by the European Research Council (ERC). Professor Talbot said: "International collaboration is central to our research and vital to keep us operating at the frontiers of understanding. "Support from the ERC was pivotal to this project, as was the generous support of Claire Halpin, who has continued to support my research work and believe in the power of fundamental research and retraining to solve one of the world's most devastating diseases." The paper, published in the journal Science, is entitled: "A single fungal MAP kinase controls plant cell-to-cell invasion by the rice blast fungus." Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not respons

Breakthrough in battle against rice blast UNIVERSITY OF EXETER Scientists have found a way to stop the spread of rice blast, a fungus that destroys up to 30% of the world's rice crop each year.An international team led by the University of Exeter showed that chemical genetic inhibition of a single protein in the fungus stops it spreading inside a rice leaf - leaving it trapped within a single plant cell.The finding is a breakthrough in terms of understanding rice blast, a disease that is hugely important in terms of global food security. However, the scientists caution that this is a "fundamental" discovery - not a cure that can yet be applied outside the laboratory. The research revealed how the fungus can manipulate and then squeeze through natural channels (called plasmodesmata) that exist between plant cells."This is an exciting breakthrough because we have discovered how the fungus is able to move stealthily between rice cells, evading recognition by the plant immune system," said senior author Professor Nick Talbot FRS, of the University of Exeter. "It is clearly able to suppress immune responses at pit fields (groups of plasmodesmata), and also regulate its own severe constriction to squeeze itself through such a narrow space. "And all this is achieved by a single regulatory protein. It's a remarkable feat." Rice blast threatens global food security, destroying enough rice each year to feed 60 million people.It spreads within rice plants by invasive hyphae (branching filaments) which break through from cell to cell. In their bid to understand this process, the researchers used chemical genetics to mutate a signalling protein to make it susceptible to a specific drug. The protein, PMK1, is responsible for suppressing the rice's immunity and allowing the fungus to squeeze through pit fields - so, by inhibiting it, the researchers were able to trap the fungus within a cell. This level of precision led the team to discover that just one enzyme, called a MAP kinase, was responsible for regulating the invasive growth of rice blast.The research team hope this discovery will enable them to identify targets of this enzyme and thereby determine the molecular basis of this devastating disease.

The research was led by Dr Wasin Sakulkoo, who recently received his PhD from Exeter.Dr Sakulkoo is a Halpi Dr Sakulkoo is from Thailand, and has returned home to a new position in industry following graduation. ### The project involved state-of-the-art live cell imaging procedures pioneered at Exeter by postdoctoral fellow Dr George Littlejohn, who is now a lecturer at Plymouth University, and electron microscopy specialists Christian Hacker and Ana Correia. The research was also an international effort involving collaborators from Kansas State University, Dr Barbara Valent and Dr Ely Oliviera Garcia, and former Marie Curie Fellow Dr Miriam Oses-Ruiz. The work was funded by the European Research Council (ERC). Professor Talbot said: "International collaboration is central to our research and vital to keep us operating at the frontiers of understanding. "Support from the ERC was pivotal to this project, as was the generous support of Claire Halpin, who has continued to support my research work and believe in the power of fundamental research and retraining to solve one of the world's most devastating diseases." The paper, published in the journal Science, is entitled: "A single fungal MAP kinase controls plant cell-to-cell invasion by the rice blast fungus."

Researchers find way to stop spread of devastating rice fungus IANS | London Last Updated at March 26, 2018 11:30 IST

Scientists have discovered a way to stop the spread of rice blast, a fungus that destroys up to 30 per cent of the world's rice crop each year.

The researchers found that chemical genetic inhibition of a single protein in the fungus stops it from spreading inside a rice leaf -- leaving it trapped within a single plant cell. The finding, published in the journal Science, could mark a major advance in understanding rice blast, a disease that is hugely important in terms of global food security. The research revealed how the fungus can manipulate and then squeeze through natural channels (called plasmodesmata) that exist between plant cells. "This is an exciting breakthrough because we have discovered how the fungus is able to move stealthily between rice cells, evading recognition by the plant immune system," said senior author Professor Nicholas Talbot of the University of Exeter in Britain. "It is clearly able to suppress immune responses at pit fields (groups of plasmodesmata), and also regulate its own severe constriction to squeeze itself through such a narrow space," Talbot said. "And all this is achieved by a single regulatory protein. It's a remarkable feat," he added. However, the scientists caution that this is a "fundamental" discovery -- not a cure that can yet be applied outside the laboratory. Rice blast threatens global food security, destroying enough rice each year to feed 60 million people. It spreads within rice plants by invasive hyphae (branching filaments) which break through from cell to cell. In their bid to understand this process, the researchers used chemical genetics to mutate a signalling protein to make it susceptible to a specific drug. The protein, PMK1, is responsible for suppressing the rice's immunity and allowing the fungus to squeeze through pit fields. So, by inhibiting it, the researchers were able to trap the fungus within a cell.

Traders should not be allowed to import rice–solon By Jovee Marie de la Cruz March 25, 2018 A vice chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations on Sunday backed the recent directive of Malacañang for the National Food Authority (NFA) to speed up the importation of 250,000 metric tons of rice. Rep. Luis Raymund F. Villafuerte Jr. of the Second District of Camarines Sur said the Palace has recently directed the NFA Council (NFAC) to fast-track rice imports, along with a crackdown on erring employees possibly in cahoots with unscrupulous grains businessmen. ―The President‘s order to speed up rice imports should give all the more reason to the NFAC to reverse its longstanding policy of allowing private traders to import rice in favor of giving back to the NFA 100-percent control over all overseas purchases of the staple,‖ Villafuerte said in a statement.

―While the NFA can do the job of importing rice better and faster, it must also watch out for some scalawags in its ranks who sell NFA rice to traders, as this will defeat the purpose of stabilizing prices in the market,‖ he added. Villafuerte, citing Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol, said President Duterte issued the order to the NFA to expedite rice imports during a recent NFAC meeting and told the Cabinet he did not want a repeat of the 2008 rice crisis. Full control Villafuerte also said the NFA should regain full control over rice imports, considering that certain unscrupulous grains traders have cashed in on the current system to corner the bulk of domestic supply and unduly jack up prices of this staple at the expense of ordinary Filipinos. The lawmaker called on the NFAC to reverse its policy of letting private grains businessmen import rice through the NFA, following an earlier appeal by NFA Administrator Jason Aquino to farmers to sell part of their harvests to the food agency so it could replenish its stocks. Amid the current ―artificial‖ supply problem, Villafuerte said the council should also consider setting up a separate body to monitor the supply and prices of rice, with the end goal of imposing a price ceiling once retail prices spiral out of control—in the same way that the government exercise regulatory control over vital services like electricity for the protection of consumers. ―We need to fix the existing system to shield both farmers and consumers from the shady practices of private traders that have left the NFA helpless in carrying out its primary task of ensuring the stability of the price and supply of rice in the market,‖ Villafuerte added. Under the current system, the NFA has the sole authority to import rice, but the NFAC allows private traders to similarly purchase stocks from abroad through the NFA.

He also said the rule of thumb is that palay bought from farmers should only have a 100-percent markup once milled and sold as rice in retail outlets. ―At the current average farm-gate buying price of P20 per kilogram of palay, regular-milled rice should be sold at around P40 per kg only,‖ he said. ―But right now you can see that regularmilled and commercial rice sells for around P43 per kg to P50 per kg in retail outlets.‖ Under its food-security and price-stabilization mandate, the NFA needs to have a strategic rice reserve equivalent to 15 days‘ national consumption and a higher 30-day buffet stock during the traditional lean months of July to September. P50-million fine Meanwhile, Rep. Manuel Luis T. Lopez of the First District of Manila filed House Bill 7417, or the Rice Security and Stability Act of 2018, which seeks to impose a P50-million fine and an imprisonment of 12 years against those who will be found guilty of hoarding, profiteering and engaging in cartel operations and price manipulation of rice in the country. Lopez said the passage of this measure seeks to identify the responsibility and accountability of businessmen who are found guilty of committing any of the ―prohibited acts inimical to the interests of Filipinos, most especially the poor.‖ The bill qualifies hoarding as the undue accumulation by a person or combination of persons or corporate entities of rice beyond his of their normal inventory levels and profiteering refers to the sale or offering for sale of rice at a price grossly in excess of its market value. The measure also defined cartel as a combination of or agreement between two or more persons or corporate entities engaged in the production, manufacture, processing, storage and unreasonably increase or manipulate its price.

Price manipulation, finally, is any act committed by any person, persons, entity mor entities engaged in the production, manufacture, importation and other similar activities that seek to control and influence the price of rice at any given time.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/traders-should-not-be-allowed-to-import-rice-solon/

Buying paddy from errant millers an uphill task THE HANS INDIA | Mar 26,2018 , 01:01 AM IST

Buying paddy from errant millers an uphill task Nellore: The district administration is facing tough time in procuring paddy owing to lack of cooperation from the rice millers. The administration has repeatedly been asking the millers to provide bank guarantees but they have been keeping quiet and consequently only 50 per cent of the target could be completed till now.

Recently, Agriculture Minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy deputed former MLA M Sridhara Krishna Reddy to sort out the problem by opening a dialogue with the millers and that process is still going on.

Initially, the administration asked them to provide up to Rs 150 crore as bank guarantees but the millers could come up with only Rs 30 to Rs 40 crore. Now, officials have come down a few steps are asking for only Rs 75 crore and yet millers are not making any move.

Officiating District Civil Supplies Officer Venkata Ramana said of the 168 Paddy Purchasing Centres set up across the district, only 103 centres are active. Fifty per cent of paddy was only procured against the target of 5,000 metric tonnes per day from all these centres. The rice millers have provided bank guarantees for Rs 40 crore against the demanded of Rs 150 crore, he explained.

―Till not very long ago, the practice has been to give bank guarantee for a nominal amount for procurement. Since 2015-16, it has become burdensome with the administration taking cheques from them,‖ said one miller on condition of anonymity.

Last year, district administration had cracked whip at the errant millers who failed to supply milled rice. They arrested two millers after booking cases against them. Twenty-three millers or leaseholders agreed to mill the rice but the Civil Supplies department is yet to receive 19,258 tonnes of milled rice from them.

Even though the millers were warned of action under the Revenue Recovery (RR) Act, there has been no response from them due to ―internal corruption‖ and ―support‖ from the ―errant‖ administrative mechanism.

This year, the farmers were bringing crops in huge quantities, but the district administration has failed to make arrangement for hassle-free procurement because of the attitude of the millers.

An official from the Civil Supplies department said: ―We had supplied paddy directly from purchasing centres to millers in Kovuru and Bogole mandals but they had not returned the milled

rice even after two years. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;We have served notices on them, but it had no impact on them,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; he said. http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2018-03-26/Buying-paddy-from-errantmillers-an-uphill-task/369401

Close illegal water plants, Collector tells officials THE HANS INDIA | Mar 26,2018 , 12:30 AM IST

Close illegal water plants, Collector tells officials

Vijayawada: Krishna District Collector B Lakshmikantham directed the officials to close illegal water plants. Reviewing with the officials of vigilance and enforcement officials at his office here on Sunday, he said that already 11 water plants were closed in the district and some other plants were being run without licences.

He asked the officials to take stringent action against the water plants which were not following quality parameters. The Collector also said that Rs 1.12 crore was collected from rice millers as penalty for illegally recycling the rice of public distribution system.

The prohibition and excise officials also booked 15 cases against the owners of liquor shops and seized one vehicle. The officials of drug control department conducted raids on 63 medical shops, he said and added that the irregularities were found in 16 shops. Similarly, cases were booked against the cloth stores, general stores, aqua and super markets and Rs 6.72 lakh were collected as a penalty from them, he said. Similarly, samples were collected from various shops and general stores, he said. Several officials of various departments, along with vigilance and enforcement department, were present at the meeting.

Gene Boosts Rice Growth and Yield in Salty Soil Fri, 03/23/2018 - 3:35pm by American Society of Plant Biologists

Members of the research team collecting samples in a rice paddy field in Changsha, China. Jianzhong Lin

Around 20% of the world's irrigated land is considered to contain elevated concentrations of salt, and the soil continues to get saltier as the climate warms. Agricultural production is hard hit by soil salinity; salt stress reduces the growth and yield of most plants, resulting in billions of dollars in crop yield losses annually. Rice-the staple food of more than half the world's population--is particularly sensitive to salty soil, with even moderate levels of salt resulting in substantial yield losses. There is thus an urgent need to develop rice lines that can withstand salty conditions. A team of scientists led by Jian-Zhong Lin and Xuan-Ming Liu of Hunan University in Changsha, China recently identified a gene that contributes to salt stress tolerance in rice. The gene, which they named STRK1 (salt tolerance receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase 1), was activated under salt stress conditions. The researchers generated two sets of transgenic plants, one in which STRK1 was expressed at high levels, and the other in which expression was greatly reduced. Under regular growth conditions, both sets of transgenic plants appeared normal. However, when challenged with salt, the transgenic plants with elevated STRK1 expression were greener and larger than the non-transgenic control plants, and those with reduced levels of STRK1 expression were smaller and browner than the controls. Next, the team examined the effect of STRK1 on yield. "Notably, overexpression of STRK1 in rice not only improved growth but also markedly limited the grain yield loss under salt stress conditions," said Jian-Zhong Lin. The team then turned their attention to deciphering the mechanism by which STRK1 enhances the plant's tolerance to salt. Salt stress triggers the production of potentially harmful reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide, in plant cells. The group found that STRK1 (the protein encoded by STRK1) interacts with and activates a protein named CatC, which belongs to a family of proteins that decomposes hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Thus, STRK1 increases the plant's tolerance to salt stress by keeping the levels of hydrogen peroxide in check, and thereby minimizing the damage caused by accumulating reactive oxygen species. These exciting findings bring the research community closer to developing rice plants that thrive in salty soil. "Agricultural productivity is increasingly threatened by the salinization of irrigated farmland...Our work demonstrates that STRK1 is a promising candidate gene for protection of yield in crop plants exposed to salt stress," stated Xuan-Ming Liu.

https://www.rdmag.com/news/2018/03/gene-boosts-rice-growth-and-yield-salty-soil

Gene Boosts Rice Growth And Yield In Salty Soil

March 24, 2018Eurasia Review

Members of the research team collecting samples in a rice paddy field in Changsha, China. Credit: Jianzhong Lin By Eurasia Review Around 20% of the world‘s irrigated land is considered to contain elevated concentrations of salt, and the soil continues to get saltier as the climate warms. Agricultural production is hard hit by soil salinity; salt stress reduces the growth and yield of most plants, resulting in billions of dollars in crop yield losses annually. Rice–the staple food of more than half the world‘s population–is particularly sensitive to salty soil, with even moderate levels of salt resulting in substantial yield losses. There is thus an urgent need to develop rice lines that can withstand salty conditions. A team of scientists led by Jian-Zhong Lin and Xuan-Ming Liu of Hunan University in Changsha, China recently identified a gene that contributes to salt stress tolerance in rice. The gene, which they named STRK1 (salt tolerance receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase 1), was activated under salt stress conditions. The researchers generated two sets of transgenic plants, one in which STRK1 was expressed at high levels, and the other in which expression was greatly reduced. Under regular growth conditions, both sets of transgenic plants appeared normal. However, when challenged with salt, the transgenic plants with elevated STRK1 expression were greener and larger than the nontransgenic control plants, and those with reduced levels of STRK1 expression were smaller and browner than the controls.

Next, the team examined the effect of STRK1 on yield. ―Notably, overexpression of STRK1 in rice not only improved growth but also markedly limited the grain yield loss under salt stress conditions,‖ said Jian-Zhong Lin. The team then turned their attention to deciphering the mechanism by which STRK1 enhances the plant‘s tolerance to salt. Salt stress triggers the production of potentially harmful reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide, in plant cells. The group found that STRK1 (the protein encoded by STRK1) interacts with and activates a protein named CatC, which belongs to a family of proteins that decomposes hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Thus, STRK1 increases the plant‘s tolerance to salt stress by keeping the levels of hydrogen peroxide in check, and thereby minimizing the damage caused by accumulating reactive oxygen species. These findings bring the research community closer to developing rice plants that thrive in salty soil. ―Agricultural productivity is increasingly threatened by the salinization of irrigated farmland…Our work demonstrates that STRK1 is a promising candidate gene for protection of yield in crop plants exposed to salt stress,‖ said Xuan-Ming Liu. https://www.eurasiareview.com/24032018-gene-boosts-rice-growth-and-yield-in-salty-soil/

Rice Husk Ash Market: Growth, Trends, Region and Forecast to 2022 March 24, 2018 - by info@htfmarketreport.com

HTF MI published a new industry research that focuses on Rice Husk Ash market and delivers in-depth market analysis and future prospects of Global and United States Rice Husk Ash market. The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for managers, analysts, industry experts and other key people get ready-to-access and selfanalyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. The study is segmented by Application/ end users [Building & Construction, Steel Industry, Ceramics & Refractories & Silica Manufacturing], products type [] and various important geographies like United States, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America & Middle East and Africa]. Get Access to sample pages @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/10198242018-2025-rice-husk-ash-report-on-global-and-united-states-market The research covers the current market size of the Global and United States Rice Husk Ash market and its growth rates based on 5 year history data along with company profile of key

players/manufacturers. The in-depth information by segments of Rice Husk Ash market helps monitor future profitability & to make critical decisions for growth. The information on trends and developments, focuses on markets and materials, capacities, technologies, CAPEX cycle and the changing structure of the Global and United States Rice Husk Ash Market. The study provides company profiling, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information of key manufacturers of Global and United States Rice Husk Ash Market, some of them listed here are Usher Agro Ltd, Wadham Energy Limited Partnership, Agrilectric Power, Agrisil Holding, Yihai Kerry Investments, Refratechnik Italia SrL, Jasoriya Rice Mill Pvt, Nodules, Powder & Granules. The market is growing at a very rapid pace and with rise in technological innovation, competition and M&A activities in the industry many local and regional vendors are offering specific application products for varied end-users. The new manufacturer entrants in the market are finding it hard to compete with the international vendors based on quality, reliability, and innovations in technology. Global and United States Rice Husk Ash (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such as . Further the research study is segmented by Application such as Building & Construction, Steel Industry, Ceramics & Refractories & Silica Manufacturing with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate. Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of Rice Husk Ash in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering United States, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America & Middle East and Africa and its Share (%) and CAGR for the forecasted period 2017 to 2022. Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1019824-2018-2025-rice-husk-ash-report-onglobal-and-united-states-market Following would be the Chapters to display the Global and United States Rice Husk Ash market. Chapter 1, to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Rice Husk Ash, Applications of Rice Husk Ash, Market Segment by Regions; Chapter 2, to analyze the Manufacturing Cost Structure, Raw Material and Suppliers, Manufacturing Process, Industry Chain Structure; Chapter 3, to display the Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Rice Husk Ash, Capacity and Commercial Production Date, Manufacturing Plants Distribution, R&D Status and Technology Source, Raw Materials Sources Analysis; Chapter 4, to show the Overall Market Analysis, Capacity Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment);

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It helps in understanding the key product segments and their future It provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors It helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segments Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. About Author: HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the ―Accurate Forecast‖ in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their ―Goals & Objectives‖.

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Rice Transplanter Machines Market Overview, Cost Structure Analysis, Growth Opportunities And Forecast To 2022 March 23, 2018 - by arun.p

Rice Transplanter Machines Market report provides future growth potentials, key drivers, competitive outlook, Scope, key challenges analysis. The reports also elaborate the growth rate of the Rice Transplanter Machines market based on the top company profile analysis. This report offering a detailed analysis, market sizing, and estimate for the developing segment within the Rice Transplanter Machines market. Rice Transplanter Machines market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Rice Transplanter Machines sales volume, Price (USD/Unit), revenue (Million USD), Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data, Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors and market share for each manufacturer/player: Yanmar, Iseki, Kubota, TYM, Jiangsu World Agriculture Machinery, CLAAS, Shandong Fuerwo Agricultural Equipment, Mitsubishi Mahindra Agricultural Machinery, Dongfeng Agricultural Machinery, Changfa Agricultural Equipment, On the basis of product type, Rice Transplanter Machines Market report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into: Mechanical, Manual, On the basis on the end users/applications, Rice Transplanter Machines Market report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share and growth rate for each application, including: Commercial, Household, Request for Rice Transplanter Machines Market Sample Report @: https://www.360marketupdates.com/enquiry/request-sample/11207357 This report describes the Rice Transplanter Machines market scope with the aspects governing market growth. As this report is expected to help key players among the Rice Transplanter Machines market it includes the recent five years market analysis and the 5 years annual forecast from 2018 to 2023. Rice Transplanter Machines Market report also holds the segmentation of region wise statistical data for new entrants and the investor with breakdown of market based on types, end user

applications along with top regions with the growth analysis and forecast up to upcoming 5 years. Geographically, Rice Transplanter Machines Market report split global into several key Regions, with sales (K Units), revenue (Million USD), market share and growth rate of Rice Transplanter Machines for these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering: United States, Europe, China, Japan, South Korea, North America, India. If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want. Contact our Industry Expert @ https://www.360marketupdates.com/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/11207357 The Rice Transplanter Machines market reports include development policies and business strategies as well as leading manufacturers revenue and growth in the market. This report also contains supply and consumption figures of Rice Transplanter Machines market. Other Key Topics Covered in this report are: Key Rice Transplanter Machines market affect factors, with competitive landscape and recommended business strategies. Forecast of Rice Transplanter Machines Market and region wise growth analysis, variation in market trends and emerging opportunities in current market, Rice Transplanter Machines Market growth rate in 2022, top players market shares and so onâ&#x20AC;Ś. Several of the important areas covered in this market research report: â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rice Transplanter Machines Market Competition by Manufacturers, Production, Supply, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016), Rice Transplanter Machines Market Forecast (20182022). Along with this SWOT analysis is also carried out. Purchase this Report @: https://www.360marketupdates.com/purchase/11207357 Last part contains Development Trend and Research Conclusion of Rice Transplanter Machines Market with Methodology and Data Source. With overall Rice Transplanter Machines market research, this report is a valuable source of guidance/ direction and provides important statistics on the existing state of the said market. It is helpful for established businesses, new entrants interested in the market. https://themobileherald.com/rice-transplanter-machines-market-overview-cost-structure-analysis-growthopportunities-and-forecast-to-2022/9276/

Civil supplies departmen’s IT adoption now a case study at Indian School of Business By Express News Service | 26th March 2018 05:44 AM | Last Updated: 26th March 2018 05:44 AM HYDERABAD: The adoption of Information Technology in the public distribution system (PDS) that enabled the Telangana State Civil Supplies Department (TSCDS) to plug leakages and improve operational efficiency, is now a case study for future entrepreneurial leaders at Indian School of Business (ISB). The case study looks at various Information Technology (IT) reformations undertaken by the department in 2017-18 that helped them get ranked first the country for technology adoption.The ISB case study titled ―Turnaround of Food and Civil Supplies Department in Telangana Government‖ chronicles the tenure of CV, Anand, Commissioner of TSCDS since assuming office on August 15, 2017. The study pointed out the different departmental and financial issues the department faces and the steps that were taken which resulted in rice millers returning 100 per cent of the Custom Milled Rice in the Kharif season of 2016-17. The department achieved this by negotiating, withdrawing pending cases and offering support to the millers. Earlier the rice millers often did not return CMR to the TSCDS, the department estimates that 0.2 million metric tons of rice were pending from the millers, amounting to `4.85 billion. The study showcases how steps such as the adoption of e-PoS machines at 17,200 Fair Price Shops helped save `7.5-8 billion every year. The department claimed that `81 billion payment to 1.1 million farmers in 2017-18 kharif and rabi crop seasons were made using tablets at the PPC using the OPMS software. http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2018/mar/26/civil-supplies-departmens-itadoption-now-a-case-study-at-indian-school-of-business-1792470.html.

Plan to export paddy to Sri Lanka from State By Express News Service | Published: 26th March 2018 02:09 AM | Last Updated: 26th March 2018 05:21 AM NELLORE: Agriculture Minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy has said that they are discussing with Sri Lanka government to export paddy stored in warehouses of the

district. Somireddy inspected water level in a tank at Thoderu village in Podalakur mandal on Sunday.Speaking to the media, he said that farmers across the district produced 4 puttis of paddy for one acre on an average. ―Farmers are able to produce 30 lakh putties of paddy in the district after the government supplied water for 7 lakh acres this season,‖ he said. Somireddy explained that they had supplied 22 tmc of water from Krishna river to Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs in the district.―Water has been provided to upland areas on par with delta lands. Nearly, 25,600 acres of land was brought under cultivation after the construction ofa siphon from Kandaleru left canal at a cost of `40 lakh. A proposal was made to construct an aqueduct at a cost of `4 crore,‖ the Agriculture Minister said. He said that rice millers from other districts have been procuring paddy from farmers at a support price after providing bank guarantee. ―Nearly 5 tmc of water was supplied to Swarnamukhi and Kalangi to cultivate crops,‖ he said. The minister also inspected the Chatagotla tank. http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2018/mar/26/plan-to-export-paddy-to-sri-lanka-from-state1792507.html.

Global rice consumption continues to grow by Grain Central, 26 March 2018 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Google Plus Share on LinkedIn Share on Pinterest Share via Email RICE consumption around the world is anticipated to continue to grow steadily at around 1.1 per cent per annum to 2025 when it is expected to reach a market volume of 570 million tonnes (Mt), according to a new rice market report published by market research firm IndexBox.

China and India will remain the world’s leading rice producers and India, Thailand and Vietnam the main rice exporters, while China has emerged as the largest rice importer.

In 2016, global rice consumption reached its maximum level (in terms of milled rice weight) of 518Mt, posting modest but robust gains from 2007-2016. The total consumption volume increased at an average annual rate of +1.4%. Over the period under review, the global rice consumption reached its maximum volume in 2016, and is likely to continue its growth in the immediate term due to Asian population growth. In 2016, the countries with the highest consumption were China (29pc based on tonnes), India (19pc) and Indonesia (11pc), together comprising 59pc of total consumption. They were followed by India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, Philippines, Brazil and Japan. From 2007 to 2016, the most notable growth rates of rice consumption among the main consuming countries was attained by Indonesia (+3.0pc per year from 2007 to 2016), Vietnam (+2.9pc per year) and Bangladesh (+1.7pc per year), while the other global leaders indicated relatively stable consumption trend pattern. The highest levels of rice per capita consumption was registered in Myanmar (306 kilograms per year), Vietnam (285kg per year), Thailand (233kg per year), Bangladesh (229kg per year) and Indonesia (210kg per year), while the average per capita consumption of rice was estimated at 72 kg/year in 2016.

Consumption to reach 570Mt by end of 2025 Rice is a traditional staple food in many countries of the world, especially in Asia, therefore rice consumption is determined by the population needs in food. Consequently, the world consumption of rice is not subject to strong fluctuations. In the future, it is expected that due to sustainable growth in population and development of agricultural practices, which improve rice yields and strengthen rice supply, market performance is to continue its mild upward trend. Rice consumption is to grow with an anticipated CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of +1.1pc for the nine-year period from 2016 to 2025, which is expected to lead the market to a volume of 570M tonnes by the end of 2025.

China and India leading producers Global rice production amounted to 527M in 2016 (in terms of milled rice weight). Overall, the rice supply pursued a stable growth from 2007 to 2016.

The countries with the highest levels of production in 2016 were China (148Mt) and India (110Mt), together accounting for 59pc of rice supply. They were followed by Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Brazil and Japan, which all lagged somewhat behind.

India, Thailand and Vietnam main exporters In 2016, the volume of global exports totalled 35.6Mt (this figure refers to a sum of semi-milled or wholly milled rice broken rice and husked (brown) rice) which was 12pc less than the year before. However, from 2007 to 2016, the global rice exports indicated a pronounced growth, with a CAGR of +1.9pc. India (28pc), Thailand (18pc) and Vietnam (17pc) were the main suppliers of rice in the world, together made up 63pc of global rice exports. Among these countries, India (+5.2pc per year) and Vietnam (+2.9pc per year) exports steady increased over the period under review, while Thailand milled rice exports dropped by -3.9pc from 2007 to 2016. The share of India (+7 percentage points) significantly strengthened its position in the global rice exports, while the share of Thailand (-12 percentage points) decreased significantly.

China emerged as largest importer The volume of global rice imports totalled 26.7Mt in 2016 (in terms of milled rice weight). Imports dynamics was generally in line with exports: these trade flows globally complement each other. From 2007 to 2016, global rice imports remained relatively stable, however, indicating some noticeable fluctuations in certain years. China (13pc of global imports in 2016) was the key rice importer in the world. Except China, the main importers of rice were Indonesia (5pc), the United Arab Emirates (4pc), Benin (4pc) and Saudi Arabia (4pc), all these countries together made up 17pc share of global rice imports in 2016. China had the highest growth rates of imports, which accounted for +25.7pc per year from 20072016. The other countries had more moderate growth rates over the same period: Benin (+6.6pc per year) and the United Arab Emirates (+1.9pc per year).

While the share of China rice imports (+11 percentage points) increased significantly, the shares of the other countries remained relatively stable throughout the analysed period. Source: IndexBox, www.indexbox.co.uk

23&24 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;March-2018 Rice News Gene boosts rice growth and yield in salty soil Discovery of a gene that helps rice plants grow in salty soil paves the way to developing salt-tolerant crops AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLANT BIOLOGISTS SHARE PRINT E-MAIL

IMAGE: MEMBERS OF THE RESEARCH TEAM COLLECTING SAMPLES IN A RICE PADDY FIELD IN CHANGSHA, CHINA. view more CREDIT: JIANZHONG LIN

Around 20% of the world's irrigated land is considered to contain elevated concentrations of salt, and the soil continues to get saltier as the climate warms. Agricultural production is hard hit by soil salinity; salt stress reduces the growth and yield of most plants, resulting in billions of dollars in crop yield losses annually. Rice--the staple food of more than half the world's population--is particularly sensitive to salty soil, with even moderate levels of salt resulting in substantial yield losses. There is thus an urgent need to develop rice lines that can withstand salty conditions. A team of scientists led by Jian-Zhong Lin and Xuan-Ming Liu of Hunan University in Changsha, China recently identified a gene that contributes to salt stress tolerance in rice. The gene, which they named STRK1 (salt tolerance receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase 1), was activated under salt stress conditions. The researchers generated two sets of transgenic plants, one in which STRK1 was expressed at high levels, and the other in which expression was greatly reduced. Under regular growth conditions, both sets of transgenic plants appeared normal. However, when challenged with salt, the transgenic plants with elevated STRK1 expression were greener and larger than the nontransgenic control plants, and those with reduced levels of STRK1 expression were smaller and browner than the controls. Next, the team examined the effect of STRK1 on yield. "Notably, overexpression of STRK1 in rice not only improved growth but also markedly limited the grain yield loss under salt stress conditions," said Jian-Zhong Lin. The team then turned their attention to deciphering the mechanism by which STRK1 enhances the plant's tolerance to salt. Salt stress triggers the production of potentially harmful reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide, in plant cells. The group found that STRK1 (the protein encoded by STRK1) interacts with and activates a protein named CatC, which belongs to a family of proteins that decomposes hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Thus, STRK1 increases the plant's tolerance to salt stress by keeping the levels of hydrogen peroxide in check, and thereby minimizing the damage caused by accumulating reactive oxygen species.

These exciting findings bring the research community closer to developing rice plants that thrive in salty soil. "Agricultural productivity is increasingly threatened by the salinization of irrigated farmland...Our work demonstrates that STRK1 is a promising candidate gene for protection of yield in crop plants exposed to salt stress," stated Xuan-Ming Liu. ###

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-03/asop-gbr032118.php

Indian American-led Research Team Awarded $10 Million NSF Grant to Develop Camera to Probe Beneath Skin 

India-West Staff Reporter

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Mar 23, 2018

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Rice University professor of electrical and computer engineering Ashutosh Sabharwal is the principal investigator on the grant. (Rice University photo)

Srinivasa Narasimhan of CMU is the associate director of the new project. (CMU photo)     

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The National Science Foundation recently awarded an interdisciplinary team of investigators at five higher education institutions with a five-year, $10 million grant to develop a new type of camera that peers deep beneath the skin to help diagnose and monitor a wide variety of health conditions. The team of investigators for the NSF‘s newly announced Expeditions in Computing program is led by Rice University and includes contributions from individuals from Carnegie Mellon University, Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Cornell University. The effort will combine advanced optics and sophisticated computation to make sense of light that penetrates the skin but scatters off internal tissues and anatomical structures, according to a Carnegie Mellon University news release. This will enable noninvasive bio-optical imaging at a cellular scale — something not possible with ultrasound, X-rays and other medical imaging technologies, it said. ―Bioimaging today enables us to see just a few millimeters beneath the skin,‖ said Srinivasa Narasimhan in a statement. Narasimhan is a computer vision researcher and professor in CMU's Robotics Institute who is associate director of the new project.

―We'd like to go five to 10 times deeper. With every additional millimeter we go, this technology becomes more useful. We hope that eventually it might reduce or eliminate the need for biopsies,‖ the Indian American researcher said. Principal investigator on the grant, Rice University professor of electrical and computer engineering Ashutosh Sabharwal said in the news release that ―Expeditions supports transformative research, and our goal is to create miniaturized, light-based microscopes for use in wearables, point-of-care, bedside diagnostics, ambulances, operating rooms and more.‖ The key to this effort is development of a technique called ―computational scatterography,‖ the news release said. When light passes through the body, most of that light is scattered, CMU explained. That scattering can cause the tissue to glow, as when a flashlight is pointed at the palm of the hand, it added. Until now, the scattered light was of little use for medical imaging. But new computer vision techniques allow scientists to make more sense of scattered light — essentially de-scattering the light by tracing the paths that photons took before they reached the camera, the news release added. Among the investigators at CMU include Narasimhan, Aswin Sankaranarayanan, Ioannis Gkioulekas and Artur Dubrawski. They will work with researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine to explore possible cardiovascular and critical care applications, and with physicians at the Allegheny Health Network on skin cancer applications, according to the CMU news release.

Sabharwal pointed to white blood cell count tests, which require a finger prick or a blood draw, as an example of the project's potential impact. In the U.S., oncologists use millions of WBC tests each week to monitor chemotherapy patients, CMU said. ―Imagine a wearable device no larger than a watch that uses sensors to continuously measure white blood cell count and wirelessly communicate with the oncologist's office,‖ Sabharwal said in a statement. ―The patient could go about their daily life. They'd only have to go to the hospital if there was a problem.‖ Sabharwal said it is crucial to understand that scatterography will not aid in managing just one or two healthcare problems, the CMU report added. ―If we succeed, this isn't just one product,‖ he went on. ―It's a platform technology that will be able to spinoff into many products that can be used in the care of nearly 100 health conditions.‖ Other investigators include Ashok Veeraraghavan, Richard Baraniuk, Rebecca Richards-Kortum and Lin Zhong at Rice; Al Molnar at Cornell, Latanya Sweeney at Harvard, and Ramesh Raskar at MIT. http://www.indiawest.com/news/global_indian/indian-american-led-research-team-awarded-millionnsf-grant-to/article_5c86fc82-2df9-11e8-9588-8f2b9bb2c5c2.html

New Report Provides 2011-2018 Overview of Global Rice Syrup Sales Market March 23, 2018 3 Min Read

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Questale has just released a comprehensive market research report for Global Rice Syrup Sales Market.This report focuses on top players in global market, with production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, covering Wuhu Deli Foods , Axiom Foods and Wuhu Haoyikuai Food . ―This report is a professional account, which gives thorough knowledge along with complete details pertaining to Global Rice Syrup Sales Market. The research experts have evaluated the general sales of Global Rice Syrup Sales Market and its revenue generation. Furthermore, it also gives extensive study of root market trends and many governing elements along with improvements in the market in every segment., it contains diverse profiles of key market players such as Wuhu Deli Foods , Axiom Foods and Wuhu Haoyikuai Food .‖ – said a Spokesperson with Questale.

You can get free access to samples from the report here: https://questale.com/report/globalrice-syrup-sales-market-report-2018/304358 The potential of the products has been rigorously tested in conjunction with the key market challenges. The existing condition of the market and future prospects of this segment has also been studied. Furthermore, key market strategies, which include product developments, scope of product, and market strategies are also discussed. It constitutes quantitative and qualitative evaluation by industry experts, assistance from industry analysts, and first-hand data. This research report for Global Rice Syrup Sales Market explore different topics such as product scope, product market by end users or application, product market by region, market size for the specific product, sales and revenue by region, manufacturing cost analysis, Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers, Market Effect Factors Analysis, market size forecast, and more. The research gives a forecast for the Global Rice Syrup Sales industry till the year 2022. The research experts have evaluated the general sales of Global Rice Syrup Sales Market and its revenue generation. Furthermore, it also gives extensive study of root market trends and many governing elements along with improvements in the market in every segment. Furthermore, it contains diverse profiles of key market players. Mazor countries have a very crucial role in the global market and the latest report for Global Rice Syrup Sales Market study the status of development and future trends in China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, India, Southeast Asia & Australia. The report also splits the products by applications and by type to deeply and fully research and disclose the market situation and future prediction.

About Global Rice Syrup Sales Market Research Report This report is vital for any player in the industry, thanks to the comprehensive outlook that is provided. Considering all the vital details that it encloses, it is important for any new player entering the arena so that they can get a good idea and study the market before making any crucial decision. The report will answer queries about the present market developments, opportunity cost, and more. On product basis, each report shows the revenue (in USD), sales volume (K units), market share, product price (in USD per unit), and rate of growth of each kind. They are primarily divided into Brown Rice , White Rice and Certified Organic Rice . Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at:: https://questale.com/report/global-ricesyrup-sales-market-report-2018/304358 About Questale Questale is one of the leading agencies in the world to offer market research reports using globally acknowledged methodologies and innovative tech tools. It is known for providing some of the best-selling reports across an extensive range of industries, including aerospace & defense, agriculture, automotive, consumer goods, food & beverages, cosmetic, construction, and electronics to name a few. https://tokenfolks.com/new-report-provides-2011-2018-overview-of-global-rice-syrup-sales-market/

Speciality rice varieties of Kerala are storehouse of nutrition: study MONIKA KUNDU SRIVASTAVAT+ T-

NEW DELHI, MAR 23 The rice samples were compared for grain size and shape (which determines consumer preference and commercial success), carbohydrate content (which affects overall pastiness after cooking and eating), gelatinization temperature (affects cooking temperature of rice), content of protein (required for growth and development), fibre (reduces risk of bowel disorders and fights constipation), minerals (required for various body functions) and moisture (affects rice quality especially shelf life). It was found that that Pokkali rice has all the desired qualities including nutritional values. It was rated among the best in terms of fibre and protein content, antioxidants with benefits of vitamin E, and minerals such as iron, boron and sulphur. It had the lowest carbohydrate content (along with Gandhakasala) making it most suitable for persons with diabetes or those advised low-sugar diet. Rice varieties Jyothi, Jaya, Uma, Pokkali in first row and Jeerakasala, Gandhakasala, Golden Njavara, Black Njavara in second row.

Researchers point out that rice milling, done for polishing rice grain, involves discarding bran or brown outer layer of rice kernel which has considerable nutritional value and health benefits. Processed rice is deficient in many minerals such as potassium (maintains blood pressure), phosphorus (for strong bones and dental health), manganese (required for various chemical processes in the body) and sulphur (main constituents of proteins in our body). ―Polishing should be kept to a minimum during milling, and antioxidant-rich bran of these speciality rice varieties resulting from milling can be utilized in preparation of healthy snacks such as biscuits, baby foods and breads,‖ pointed out Dr. K S Shylaraj, who led the study, while speaking to India Science Wire. The study results have been published in journal Current Science. Rice bran, besides having high fibre content, consists of various antioxidants with similar benefits as vitamin E. It helps lower cholesterol levels and also protects and fights infections. The rice bran oil extracted from varieties of rice considered in the study were found to be a good substitute for groundnut oil in supplying fatty acids besides being more economical. ―Growing Pokkali rice is being popularized as a solution for farmers in coastal areas who are facing a problem of high levels of salt content in soil due to rising sea levels. Pokkali rice, if grown during the monsoons, holds rainwater. This freshwater then seeps into the ground and removes some of the salt water thereby reducing the saltiness of soil,‖ said Dr Shylaraj. The research team also included Soumya G. Nadh and Shimi K. Chandran. (India Science Wire) https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/speciality-rice-varieties-of-kerala-arestorehouse-of-nutrition-study/article23334574.ece

KAU to promote 62 traditional rice types STAFF REPORTER KALPETTA, MARCH 23, 2018 23:18 IST

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Demonstration plot on RARS premises to sensitise farmers Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) joins hands with the Department of Agriculture to conserve and propagate the remaining traditional rice varieties of Wayanad, one of the most biodiversity-rich districts of the State.

The project aims at promoting the cultivation of 62 varieties, including indigenous and scented rice varieties of the district such as Gandhakasala, Jeerakasala, Kayama, Thondi, Marathondi, Chomala, Adukkan, and Veliyan. A recent survey organised jointly by the university and the Agriculture Department reveals that as many as 62 varieties of traditional rice varieties are being cultivated in the hill district now. The survey was organised as part of preparing a directory of the traditional rice varieties of the district in connection with declaring Wayanad as a ‗special agriculture zone‘ for floriculture and specialty rice. The Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS) of the university at Ambalavayal will provide technical assistance and seeds to farmers as a part of promoting traditional rice cultivation, P. Rajendran, Associate Director of research, RARS, said.

Seed festival ―We are setting up a demonstration plot on the premises of RARS to sensitise the farming community to the significance of conserving the rich biodiversity of the region,‖ Dr. Rajendran said, adding that the station would also host a seed festival in July as part of it. ―As many as 648 farmers in the district are cultivating different varieties of traditional rice on 392 hectares of land,‖ P.H. Meharban, Principal Agricultural Officer, Wayanad, said. ―We are planning to expand the cultivation to 1,000 hectares of land in the coming years under the project,‖ she said. The Agriculture Department is provided ₹10,000 a hectare as an incentive and procure the seed varieties at ₹50 a kg after harvest to attract more farmers to the sector,‖ S.K. Rani, Deputy director, Agriculture Department, Wayanad, said.

Five tonnes of traditional rice seeds was procured from the farmers during the current fiscal. Apart from this, the government had set aside a sum of ₹3 crore to the university for carrying out a genome study on the rice varieties, she said.

types/article23337093.ece la/kau-to-promote-62-traditional-ricehttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kera pretty see fewer a lonelier plants, dire? Yes": animals planet "Are Reports with things 

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Email WASHINGTON -- Earth is losing plants, animals and clean water at a dramatic rate, according to four new United Nations scientific reports that provide the most comprehensive and localized look at the state of biodiversity. Scientists meeting in Colombia issued four regional reports Friday on how well animal and plants are doing in the Americas; Europe and Central Asia; Africa; and the AsiaPacific area. Their conclusion after three years of study: Nowhere is doing well. The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem was about more than just critters, said study team chairman Robert Watson. It is about keeping Earth livable for humans, because we rely on biodiversity for food, clean water and public health, the prominent British and U.S. scientist said. "This is undermining well-being across the planet, threatening us long-term on food and water," Watson said in an interview.

Scientists pointed to this week's death of the last male northern white rhino in Africa, severe declines in the numbers of elephants, tigers and pangolins, but said those are only the most visible and charismatic of species that are in trouble. What's happening is a side effect of the world getting wealthier and more crowded with people, Watson said. Humans need more food, more clean water, more energy and more land. And the way society has tried to achieve that has cut down on biodiversity, he said. Crucial habitat has been cut apart, alien species have invaded places, chemicals have hurt plants and animals, wetlands and mangroves that clean up pollution are disappearing, and the world's waters are overfished, he said. Man-made climate change is getting worse, and global warming will soon hurt biodiversity as much as all the other problems combined, Watson said. "We keep making choices to borrow from the future to live well today," said Jake Rice, Canada's chief government scientist for fisheries and oceans, who cochaired the Americas report. Duke University conservationist Stuart Pimm, who wasn't part of the study team, said the reports make sense and are based on well-established scientific data: "Are things pretty dire? Yes." Among the regional findings:

The Americas If current trends continue, by the year 2050 the Americas will have 15 percent fewer plants and animals than now. That means there will be 40 percent fewer plants and animals in the Americas than in the early 1700s. Nearly a quarter of the species that were fully measured are now threatened, Rice said. And when all of "nature's contributions" are taken into account, nearly two-thirds are declining and more than one-fifth are "decreasing strongly," Rice said.

Asia-Pacific If trends continue, there will be no "exploitable fish stocks" for commercial fishingby 2048. Around that same, the region will lose 45 percent of its biodiversity and about 90 percent of its crucial corals, if nothing changes, said Asia co-chair Sonali Seneratna Sellamuttu, a senior researcher at the International Water Management Institute. "All major ecosystems are threatened in the region," she said.

Europe and Central Asia Even though it is the region that Watson said may be doing the best, 28 percent of the species that only live in Europe are now threatened. In the last decade, 42 percent of the land plant and animal species have declined, said Europe co-chair Mark Rounsevell of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany. Wetlands have been cut in half since 1970.

Africa Africa could lose half of some bird and mammal species by 2100. And more than 60 percent of the continent's people depend on natural resources for their livelihoods, said report co-chair Luthando Dziba of South African National Parks. Already more than 20 percent of Africa's species are threatened, endangered or extinct. While scientists said government and society needs to change its ways, individuals can use less energy, less water and eat less red meat, Watson said. "A balanced diet can really help," he said. There are "lots of individual things you can do." The outlook is bleak if society doesn't change, but it still can, Watson said. "Some species are threatened with extinctions. Others, just pure numbers will go down," Watson said. "It will be a lonelier place relative to our natural world. It's a moral issue. Do we humans have right to make them go extinct."

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/united-nations-reports-lonelier-planet-with-fewer-plants-animalsbiodiversity/

CSIR And Lancaster University Comence "Water For Food Production" Project Eric Gyimah/mothergh.wordpress.com 

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The researcher said the "Alternate Wetting and Drying" technology that the Council in partnership with the Lancaster University is developing will help increase crop yield whilst limiting the demand of water for irrigation in rice cultivation. Dr Yeboah pointed out that water management has become the necessary means of ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity in order to achieve food security in the country in particular and the world at large. He indicated that the current universal statistics on water is alarming and fast becoming a threat to global agricultural productivity especially the rice venture which demands large volumes of water hence the need to adapt the water management approach. He argued that about 70 percent of the world's water resource is used for agricultural purposes which if not checked will have negative impact on global food security in the near future, as a result, research institutions and scientists need to develop a farming technology which can address the challenge. Dr. Yeboah indicated that the over application of crop nutrients such as nitrogen fertilizer with the aim of increasing rice yield has negative consequences on the environment. "In this regard, that the Water for Food Production project is also aimed at reducing green house gasses emissions such as nitrous oxide and methane though optimise nutrient application technology", the researcher disclosed. He explained further that, soil microbes that feed on the applied crop nutrients (fertilizers) emit nitrous oxide and methane gasses adding, "the more these microbes feed on much fertilizer, the more green house gasses emitted into the environment".

He said the nutrients management aspect of the technology will serve both economical and environmental purposes, thus reducing the quantity of nitrogen fertilizer wastage in order to achieve low carbon while promoting green growth for a healthy environment for a healthy society. Dr. Stephen Yeboah is therefore optimistic that the Water for Food Production technology, as a component of the RECIRCULATE project will help address the high demand of water and crop nutrients in the production of the cereal. https://www.modernghana.com/news/843341/csir-and-lancaster-university-comence-water-for-foodproduc.html

250,000 MT of rice due in May to boost NFA stockpile

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Share it! Updated March 24, 2018, 7:30 AM

By Genalyn Kabiling At least 250,000 metric tons (MT) of imported rice would be delivered to the country in May to boost the government stockpile, a Palace official announced Thursday.

The arrival of the fresh stocks came after the National Food Authority (NFA) Council authorized the importation of rice through an open tender scheme with the private sector.

The rice importation was among the agreements reached during a meeting convened by President Duterte with the NFA Council, other food agency officials, and economic mangers in Malacañang last Monday. ―Mabuti pang sobra kaysa kulang, kasi kapag inabutan tayo, problema iyan! [It‘s better to have a surplus than a shortage because if we reach that, that will be a problem],‖ the President was quoted as saying by Office of the Cabinet Secretary Assistant Secretary Jonas Soriano. ―Even with a very sufficient supply of rice for the entire country to date, the NFA Management is directed to start the procurement process of the approved standby authority to import 250,000 metric tons to increase the current NFA rice inventory or buffer stock,‖ Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr. said in a statement read by Soriano during a Palace press briefing. ―The said rice import is set to arrive May of this year. This is to allow the NFA to have enough buffer stock for the upcoming lean months of the year in which rice harvest is at its lowest,‖ said Evasco, head of the NFA Council. Evasco said the mode of procurement of the 250,000 metric tons would be government-to-private importation or open tender scheme. The terms of reference will be the same as in the previous government-to-private procurement last year, he added. ―We would like to assure the public that the NFA Council is keen on ensuring continued supply of affordable rice for Filipino people while working hand in hand with other departments to ensure the interest of the Filipino farmers and their families as part of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte‘s commitment for a better Philippines and a comfortable life for the Filipinos,‖ he said. In the same Palace meeting, Evasco said the NFA Council has tasked the NFA management to work with the Department of Trade and Industry to identify and tag rice imports under the Minimum Access Volume to ensure its affordability to the consumers. ―It was also agreed that DTI shall step up and intensify price monitoring to ensure unwarranted increases and or price manipulation in rice prices,‖ he said. The NFA Council has also directed the NFA management to increase domestic buying of palay especially during the early days of the harvest months, according to Evasco. The NFA should carry out ―creative strategies in the form of incentives or sweeteners‖ for farmers to sell their products to the agency, Evasco said. ―The main thrust is to buy locally first prior to considering importation. We protect our farmers first,‖ he added. He said the NFA must also aggressively implement measures to reduce the production cost of rice such as mechanization, investment that will increase yield of rice, among others. The Council also called for amendments to Republic Act No. 8178, otherwise known as the Agricultural Tariffication Act of 1996 to protect rice farmers from the lifting of qualitative restrictions on rice imports. ―The bill seeks to prescribe tariff rates for rice importation, strengthen the rice sector to meet the head on challenges of import threats, and keep the Philippine food secure and provide funds to the rice sector based on a rice industry roadmap,‖ Evasco said.

Tags: 250000 MT of rice due in May to boost NFA stockpile, Leoncio Evasco Jr., National Food Authority, NFA, NFA Management, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, rice imports, Secretary Assistant Secretary Jonas Soriano

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/03/24/250000-mt-of-rice-due-in-may-to-boost-nfa-stockpile/

Zimbabwe: Zim Spends $80m On Rice Importation Tagged:     

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By Livingstone Marufu

Zimbabwe expects to start commercial rice production in the next season or two as the country moves to cut annual rice importation expenditure of over $80 million, a senior Government official has said. Government together with Seed Co are carrying out final feasibility studies of rice growing and are touring various rice growing countries to acquaint themselves with technology and viable methods of growing the cereal. Lands, Agriculture, Rural Resettlement Minister Perence Shiri said it is high time the country should start growing rice to save foreign currency. "Zimbabwe is a net importer of rice and spends about $80 million annually to import the cereal. "We can cut our import bill by growing commercial rice locally and I am very happy that Seed Co are here (Rattray Arnold research station) and are working towards the commercial seed rice production which will see many farmers starting to grow rice at a commercial scale," said Minister Shiri. A team of experts from his ministry have already gone to Egypt to familiarise with rice production in one of Africa's largest producer. Preliminary research has shown that the country can produce rice using hybrid varieties without any problem. New rice varieties need a lot of water in the first two months and the country has sufficient water to support rice production. Seed Co has successfully tested their seed rice in Pakistan and other countries and the biggest trial is to ensure whether those seeds will successfully grow well or not locally. According to research carried out in other countries, farmers have improved average rice production to almost 10 tonnes per hectare using hybrid varieties. And Seed Co intends to bring that expertise to local farmers. Seed Co managing director Denias Zaranyika said: "We are certain that commercial rice production will be a success in Zimbabwe and currently we are still carrying out a number assessments before kick starting the programme. We will definitely be providing seeds for the programme and we are at an advanced stage to complete the job."

Seed Co has started growing rice at its research station and soon could avail seeds to many farmers. Another local firm Life Brand Agriculture Services is planning to put 10 000 hectares of rice in Masvingo -- a project set to showcase Tokwe-Mukosi Dam's humongous impact on farming. Life Brand wants to produce over 300tonnes of rice domestically and establishing foreign markets like the Middle East. It has three good varieties of rice; the first was sourced from Malawi and the other two from China. Rice has become a priority crop in Africa with many countries looking at expanding production of the crop to achieve food self-sufficiency. https://allafrica.com/stories/201803230565.html https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/198827-timeline-clashes-leoncio-evasco-jason-aquino-nfa-riceimportation

Thailand looks to intergovernmental deals to boost rice exports Supporting farmers is high on the agenda ahead of elections Supporting Thailand's farmers has become a government priority ahead of elections next year. ÂŠ Getty Images BANGKOK The Thai government plans to boost rice exports by negotiating sales directly with other governments in a move intended to help struggling farmers ahead of a general election to be held by February next year. In order to accelerate negotiations, officials will be sent to major importers of Thai rice, said Adul Chotinisakorn, director general of the Commerce Ministry's Department of Foreign Trade. "In some countries in Asia, rice importing issues are completely controlled by government procurement bodies," Adul said. "We aim to visit them and inform them that the Thai government is ready to assist Thai

private exporters in selling more rice and the government can also sell rice via the government channel." Several Southeast Asian importers will be targeted, including the Indonesian government's procurement and logistics agency Bulog, the Philippines' National Food Authority and Malaysia's commodities procurement agency Bernas. According to ministry statistics, Indonesia and Malaysia import around 800,000 tons of Thai rice per year, while the Philippines imports 1 million tons. The government also hopes to engage traditional importers in the Middle East such as Iraq and Iran, each of which currently imports about 1 million tons of Thai rice annually. Meanwhile, the Philippine government is due to hold a tender in March for the purchase of 250,000 tons of rice from the private sector, for which Thai companies are expected to bid. The Thai government does not intend to compete with the companies, but "would help facilitate Thai exporters to join the bidding," Adul said. In recent years, Thailand has been keen to export rice on a government-togovernment basis, particularly to countries where the payment and delivery processes can be complicated.

Government-to-government deals have been used to boost rice exports and absorb excessive supply. ÂŠ Getty Images Selling rice via government channels helps mitigate risks that private exporters often find too much to bear, such as navigating economic sanctions imposed by the international community. Doing business with Iranian companies, for example, has historically been difficult as banks have been unable to process payments. Author Name: https://asia.nikkei.com/magazine/20180322/Politics-Economy/Thailand-looks-tointergovernmental-deals-to-boost-rice-exports

No G.I. Tag to Basmati rice of state is a wrong decision: CM Chouhan Saturday - March 24, 2018 3:34 am , Category : MADHYA PRADESH

Chief Minister meets Union Ministers to seek cooperation Bhopal: Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while registering protest against the decision of G.I. Registry in connection to G.I. tag of Basmati rice, met Union Minister for Commerce Suresh Prabhu, Union Minister for Home Rajnath Singh and Union Minister for External Affairs Smt. Sushma Swaraj and informed them about the facts at New Delhi on Friday. It may be mentioned that according to the decision of G.I. Registry taken on the basis of data provided by the APEDA on March 15, 2018 related to the rice, produced from the paddy sown in Madhya Pradesh will not be called Basmati rice. CM Chouhan while apprising the Union Ministers about the facts said that the Basmati rice is being produced in 13 districts of Madhya Pradesh since last 105 years approximately. About 80 thousand farmers are connected to this farming. The basmati rice worth about Rs. 3 thousand crore of the state is exported and the quality of Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s basmati is recognised at all standards. Chouhan further mentioned that the refusal of G.I. Tag to the Basmati rice of Madhya Pradesh will cause deep dissatisfaction among the basmati producing farmers in the state. Moreover, farmers will not get fair value in the market due to the absence of G.I. tag. He informed that the G.I. tag claim of Basmati rice of Madhya Pradesh is not only based on the historical evidences but also on the agro climatic condition of basmati producing districts, which is conducive for producing special type of Basmati

rice. The Chief Minister said that the decision has not only caused damage to the interest of the farmers of the state but will also cause huge loss to the exporters. This decision will cause drastic decline in the foreign exchange earned through exporters of the entire country. Chouhan said that the laboratory test conducted on stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s basmati on the basis of agro climatic condition of Madhya Pradesh supports the claim. Keeping in account the interest of the farmers and the state, Chouhan urged the Union Ministers for their cooperation for getting Basmati G.I. tag to the rice being produced in 13 districts of the state. He further mentioned that this will help farmers, especially rice producing farmers to get right price for their produce and will increase foreign exchange remarkably. Besides this, the identity of Basmati rice of Madhya Pradesh will remain intact in the World.-Window To News http://www.windowtonews.com/news.php?id=136979&cat_id=8

Speciality rice varieties of Kerala are a storehouse of nutrition: Study News-Analysis Monika Kundu Srivastava Mar 23, 2018 22:40 PM IST

Rice is a staple food for millions of Indians. It can also be a vital source of nutrition and health-benefiting substances if some of the nutritious varieties of rice traditionally grown can be popularised and polishing is kept to a minimum, a new study of diverse rice varieties done in Kerala has concluded.

Representational image. Reuters Kerala is home to a number of speciality rice varieties such as Pokkali, a saltwatertolerant organic rice having medicinal properties and special taste; Jeerakasala and Gandhakasala (scented rice varieties); Black Njavara and Golden Njavara (medicinal rice varieties extensively used in the Ayurveda). Researchers at the Rice Research Station, Kerala Agricultural University, Kochi, compared these varieties with two widely cultivated rice varieties, Jyothi and Uma, for nutrition value and acceptability by people. The rice samples were compared for grain size and shape (which determines consumer preference and commercial success), carbohydrate content (which affects overall pastiness after cooking and eating), gelatinization temperature (affects cooking temperature of rice), content of protein (required for growth and development), fibre (reduces risk of bowel disorders and fights constipation), minerals (required for various body functions) and moisture (affects rice quality especially shelf life).

Representational image by India Science Wire. It was found that that Pokkali rice has all the desired qualities including nutritional values. It was rated among the best in terms of fibre and protein content, antioxidants with benefits of vitamin E, and minerals such as iron, boron and sulphur. It had the lowest carbohydrate content (along with Gandhakasala) making it most suitable for persons with diabetes or those advised low-sugar diet. Researchers point out that rice milling, done for polishing rice grain, involves discarding bran or brown outer layer of rice kernel which has considerable nutritional value and health benefits. Processed rice is deficient in many minerals such as potassium (maintains blood pressure), phosphorus (for strong bones and dental health), manganese (required for various chemical processes in the body) and sulphur (main constituents of proteins in our body). â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Polishing should be kept to a minimum during milling, and antioxidant-rich bran of these speciality rice varieties resulting from milling can be utilised in preparation of healthy snacks such as biscuits, baby foods and breads,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; pointed out Dr K S Shylaraj, who led the study, while speaking to India Science Wire. The study results have been published in journal Current Science. Rice bran, besides having high fibre content, consists of various antioxidants with similar benefits as vitamin E. It helps lower cholesterol levels and also protects and

fights infections. The rice bran oil extracted from varieties of rice considered in the study were found to be a good substitute for groundnut oil in supplying fatty acids besides being more economical. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Growing Pokkali rice is being popularised as a solution for farmers in coastal areas who are facing a problem of high levels of salt content in soil due to rising sea levels. Pokkali rice, if grown during the monsoons, holds rainwater. This freshwater then seeps into the ground and removes some of the salt water thereby reducing the saltiness of soil,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; said Dr Shylaraj. The research team also included Soumya G. Nadh and Shimi K. Chandran. (India Science Wire)

#Antioxidants #Ayurveda #Boron #Carbohydrates #Diabetes #Gelatinization Temperature #Iron #Minerals #NewsTracker #Nutrition #Protein #Rice Bran #Rice Milling #SciPhy #Sulphur #Vitamin E

Prices of rice dip in Asia as demand eases for India variety, Vietnam harvests peak BENGALURU (Reuters) - Rice export prices slipped this week across most Asian hubs, with easing demand weighing on rates in India, and a peaking harvest hurting Vietnamese rates, although inquiries from Bangladesh could trigger fresh activity. In India https://news.us.org/item/152521_prices-of-rice-dip-in-asia-as-demand-eases-for-india-variety-vietnamharvests-peak

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh

Chouhan says GI ‘wrong’ to deny basmati tag Chouhan called on Union Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Home Minister Rajnath Singh and apprised them of his apprehensions.

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   Written by Milind Ghatwai | Bhopal | Published: March 24, 2018 5:46 am

He sought the Centre‘s intervention on the issue as the denial would leave paddy growers in the state ―deeply unsatisfied.‖

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday said the Geographical Indications (GI) Registry‘s decision to deny the coveted basmati tag to an aromatic paddy variety cultivated in the state was ―wrong‖. He sought the Centre‘s intervention on the issue as the denial would leave paddy growers in the state ―deeply unsatisfied.‖ Chouhan called on Union Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Home Minister Rajnath Singh and apprised them of his apprehensions. He told the Union ministers that nearly 80,000 farmers cultivated basmati rice in 13 districts of MP. Pegging the volume of basmati exports from MP at Rs 3,000 crore, he said denial of basmati tag would rob MP farmers of market price for their produce. He insisted that MP‘s claim was based

on historical evidence as the variety was cultivated in the region for over the last 105 years. Also, the state‘s agro climatic conditions are suitable for growing basmati, he said. ―On one hand, interests of farmers will be harmed, and on the other, exporters will have to suffer losses and the country will be deprived of foreign exchange,‖ Chouhan said. Principal Secretary (agriculture) Rajesh Rajora told The Indian Express that the state has challenged the GI Registry‘s decision in the Chennai High Court. The matter has been listed for hearing on March 26.

Government on track to converting rice QR into tariffs by June By Cai Ordinario March 22, 2018

In Photo: In this May 7, 2014, file photo, workers unload bags of rice imported from Vietnam at North Harbor in Manila. The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) remains confident that Congress would be able to pass a measure mandating the conversion of the quantitative restriction (QR) on rice into tariffs by June. Neda Assistant Secretary Mercedita A. Sombilla told the BusinessMirror that the Philippines would be able to fulfill its commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO), despite the failure of the Senate to submit its version of the measure for plenary hearing before its Lenten break.

Sombilla, who represents the oversight agency in the National Food Authority Council (NFAC), said the Neda was instructed by Sen. Cynthia A. Villar to draft another version of the bill, which will be discussed once Congress resumes session on May 14. “I think they will do some legwork during their break and then hopefully it will go through the committees very fast. They promised if not this session [passage of the bill], definitely in the next session,” Sombilla said. “Yes, I am confident that they will pass it [in time for June] because I think the economic managers have already emphasized to Congress the importance of this [measure],” she added. Sombilla said the tariffication of rice QR is one of the government’s top priorities at this time. Its passage is seen as a way of preventing a repeat of the problems that have hounded the NFA in recent years. While the Duterte administration is mulling over the restructuring of the NFA, Sombilla said this would have to take a backseat for now to fast-track the approval of the ricetariffication bill. “We have to complete the rice tarification first. If we include that in the tariffication bill, that will prolong the process of approval. That’s why we’re very careful not to touch anything about the NFA structure. We want to have that tariff first and then work on the structure of the NFA,” Sombilla said. She also said the NFAC had allowed rice imports to arrive earlier, instead of June, upon the recommendation of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol. At the earliest, rice imports would arrive in mid-May, or when the summer harvest has ended. Last November Philippine Competition Commission Chairman Arsenio M. Balisacan told the BusinessMirror that removing the QR on rice and converting this into a tariff is

“a step toward the right direction” as it would allow the entry of more players into the rice sector. Balisacan also said the creation of a fund that will help farmers will also not be anticompetition if it will be channeled to their needs, such as the construction of farm-tomarket roads and irrigation facilities. https://businessmirror.com.ph/bill-banning-political-dynasties-seen-breezing-through-senate/

Rice imports seen declining this year By BusinessMirror March 22, 2018

The implementation of the tax-reform program in January, according to the report, would raise food and feed consumption starting this year, as cuts in personal-income taxes would hike disposable incomes. This would allow consumers to purchase more meat and wheat-based products. “[Also], continued economic growth has resulted in a growing middle class and shifts in food-consumption patterns. This is evident through the rapidly expanding food retail sector and fast-food industry,” the report read. “Philippine Statistics Authority [PSA] data show that from 2012 to 2016, per capita rice consumption has been decreasing in favor of wheat and protein. No significant change in rice consumption is expected through MY 18/19,” it added. FAS in Manila said wheat imports are expected to increase 550,000 MT to 5.75 MMT in MY 18/19, driven mainly by growing feed demand. “Also on feed demand, MY 18/19 corn imports are expected to increase 200,000 MT to 700,000 MT.” Citing industry estimates, overall feed production reached roughly 11.75 MMT in 2016, up 3 percent from 11.38 MMT in 2015. “The domestic livestock and poultry industries continue to be the bright spots of Philippine agriculture, primarily due to the performance of the hog and chicken industries. Next to rice [which accounts for over a fourth of total agricultural output], hog and chicken production are the top contributors to Philippine farm output, with shares of 14.8 and 12.0 percent, respectively,” the report read. “Although there was an avian flu outbreak in August 2017, timely response by the Philippine DA arrested the spread and contained the damage of the disease. Poultry’s output grew 4.6 percent in 2017 compared to the previous year’s level, with chicken production gaining 4.3 percent. During the same period, the livestock sector gained 1.1

percent last year compared to the 2016 level, with hog production expanding 1.5 percent,” it added.

Rice imports seen declining this year By BusinessMirror March 22, 2018

Philippine rice imports could decline by 300,000 metric tons (MT) this year due to higher paddy output and the changing eating habits of consumers, according to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). In its latest Global Agricultural Information Network report, FAS in Manila projected that the country’s purchases of imported rice could go down to 1 million metric tons (MMT), from the previous year’s 1.3 MMT. “Rice production is expected to increase 980,000 MT to just over 19.5 MMT in marketing year [MY] 17/18 before reaching 19.6 MMT in MY 18/19,” the report read. “The Philippine Department of Agriculture [DA], equipped with a higher 2018 budget, is expected to aggressively pursue rice self-sufficiency in the next two years.” The report noted that the DA’s rice self-sufficiency programs are geared toward expanding and improving irrigation services, as well as increasing the use of quality planting seeds, including hybrids. The implementation of the tax-reform program in January, according to the report, would raise food and feed consumption starting this year, as cuts in personal-income taxes would hike disposable incomes. This would allow consumers to purchase more meat and wheat-based products.

“[Also], continued economic growth has resulted in a growing middle class and shifts in food-consumption patterns. This is evident through the rapidly expanding food retail sector and fast-food industry,” the report read. “Philippine Statistics Authority [PSA] data show that from 2012 to 2016, per capita rice consumption has been decreasing in favor of wheat and protein. No significant change in rice consumption is expected through MY 18/19,” it added. FAS in Manila said wheat imports are expected to increase 550,000 MT to 5.75 MMT in MY 18/19, driven mainly by growing feed demand. “Also on feed demand, MY 18/19 corn imports are expected to increase 200,000 MT to 700,000 MT.” Citing industry estimates, overall feed production reached roughly 11.75 MMT in 2016, up 3 percent from 11.38 MMT in 2015. “The domestic livestock and poultry industries continue to be the bright spots of Philippine agriculture, primarily due to the performance of the hog and chicken industries. Next to rice [which accounts for over a fourth of total agricultural output], hog and chicken production are the top contributors to Philippine farm output, with shares of 14.8 and 12.0 percent, respectively,” the report read. “Although there was an avian flu outbreak in August 2017, timely response by the Philippine DA arrested the spread and contained the damage of the disease. Poultry’s output grew 4.6 percent in 2017 compared to the previous year’s level, with chicken production gaining 4.3 percent. During the same period, the livestock sector gained 1.1 percent last year compared to the 2016 level, with hog production expanding 1.5 percent,” it added. https://businessmirror.com.ph/rice-imports-seen-declining-this-year/

Scientists develop bio-fortified maize to address â&#x20AC;&#x2014;hidden hungerâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; Aditi Jain @AditiJain1987 | Thursday 22 March 2018

The new hybrids have 4.5 folds more vitamin A content and similar amounts of lysine and tryptophan as earlier varieties

Maize, the third most important foodgrain following wheat and rice, is grown throughout the year in India. Credit: Lindsey Nicholson/Flickr ď&#x201A;ˇ

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Researchers at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) have developed a maize variety which is rich in both Vitamin A and essential amino acids through the process of plant breeding. Maize, the third most important foodgrain following wheat and rice, is grown throughout the year in India. Popularly known as corn, it is used to make food items such as chips, flakes, popcorns etc. The currently grown hybrid varieties of maize in India, though rich in essential amino acids - lysine and tryptophan -are poor in vitamin A. Scientists have developed a new hybrid variety of maize by crossing. It contains natural variations of three genes -beta-Carotene Hydroxylase, Lycopene-eta-Cyclase and Opaque2 - required for production of high amount of vitamin A and the two essential amino acids. The new hybrids, thus produced, have 4.5 folds more vitamin A content and similar amounts of lysine and tryptophan as earlier varieties. In addition, the grain yield of new hybrids has been found to be similar to existing varieties as evaluated by growing both varieties at two different locations in India. Researchers believe that bio-fortified high yielding maize hybrid could help address micronutrient malnutrition. Vitamin A, a micronutrient, is required for good vision, healthy teeth, skin and skeletal tissue. Deficiency of Vitamin A, predominately seen in developing countries, can cause blindness and increase the susceptibility of an individual to infectious diseases. Lysine and tryptophan are two essential amino acids- building blocks of protein- which cannot be synthesized by body and must be supplied to body via diet. Although, vitamin A rich maize has been developed elsewhere, the new variety is important as it is rich not in vitamin A but in two essential amino acids as well. Speaking to India Science Wire, Ganapati Mukri, a scientist at the Indian Agriculture Research Institute but not connected to this study, says, â&#x20AC;&#x2022;This bio-fortified maize can help in overcoming the vitamin A deficiency in India. However, it is essential to sensitise farmers,

policymakers and seed traders about this new development so that it can be commercially released.â&#x20AC;&#x2013; The results of this study are published in journal Frontiers in Plant Science. The research team included Rajkumar U Zunjare, Firoz Hossain, Vignesh Muthusamy, AanchalBaveja, Hema S Chauhan, Nepolean Thirunavukkarasu, SupradipSaha and Hari S Gupta from IARI, New Delhi and Jayant S Bhat from IARI station at Dharwad. (India Science Wire)

NFA ordered to begin procurement process for 250,000-MT rice importation Thursday, March 22, 2018 By RUTH ABBEY GITA AMID the reported supply shortage of state-subsidized rice, the National Food Authority (NFA) Council has green-lighted the start of procurement process to fasttrack the importation of 250,000 metric tons of rice. The decision was reached after President Rodrigo Duterte held a meeting with NFA Council on March 19, said Assistant Secretary Jonas Soriano in a press conference on Thursday, March 22. Soriano said the council gave the directive to the NFA to raise the stockpile of the affordable staple. "Even with the sufficient supply of rice for the entire country to date, the NFA management is directed to start the procurement process of the approved standby authority to increase the current NFA inventory or buffer stock," Soriano said. The latest move came after the public expressed alarm over the possible rice shortage following the reported low supply of NFA rice. Soriano said private traders will be tapped for the importation of 250,000 metric tons of rice, which is expected to be delivered in the country by May this year. "The mode of procurement of the 250,000 metric tons standby authority will be government-to-private importation or open tender," he said. "The said rice import is set to arrive May of this year. This is to allow NFA for the upcoming lean months of the year in which the highest harvest is of the lowest," he added. The council also agreed that state auditors should conduct a special audit of the NFA's procurement and distribution operations to improve the grain agency's service. "The audit shall be administered by the Commission on Audit so as to assess the current NFA operations to determine points for improvement, streamline bottlenecks in the agencies' procurement and distribution processes, with the end goal of making NFA cost and operationally efficient," Soriano said. The NFA Council also wanted the Trade department to step up price monitoring to avert "unwarranted increases or even price manipulation in rice prices." The NFA was also directed to increase the domestic purchase of grains during the early days of harvest through "creative strategies," in the form of incentives or sweeteners for farmers." "The main thrust is to buy locally first, prior to considering importation. We must protect the farmers first," he said. In February, Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr. allayed public's worry, saying the NFA Council is on top of the situation to ensure the continued supply of affordable rice. (SunStar Philippines)

Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2018/03/22/nfa-ordered-beginprocurement-process-250000-mt-rice-importation-595021 Follow us: @sunstaronline on Twitter | SunStar Philippines on Facebook ebook71TwitterPinterestLinkedIn

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Scientists develop bio-fortified maize to address â&#x20AC;&#x2014;hidden hungerâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; Aditi Jain @AditiJain1987 | Thursday 22 March 2018

The new hybrids have 4.5 folds more vitamin A content and similar amounts of lysine and tryptophan as earlier varieties

Maize, the third most important foodgrain following wheat and rice, is grown throughout the year in India. Credit: Lindsey Nicholson/Flickr ď&#x201A;ˇ

ď&#x201A;ˇ ď&#x201A;ˇ

http://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/scientists-develop-bio-fortified-maize-to-address-hiddenhunger--60002

The Sprout: Farmers concerned with temporary foreign worker policy By Kelsey Johnson and Charlie Pinkerton. Published on Mar 22, 2018 11:12am

EmailFacebookTwitterLinkedIn Good day and welcome to the Sprout where we‘ve got a follow-up story to share about Gopher Gus the Lettuce King, the tortoise who‘s birthday party we told you

about yesterday. Turns out Gus, who is now 95-years-old, has been nominated for the Order of Nova Scotia. Congratulations, Gus! Now, here‘s today‘s agriculture news: We start this morning with a memo from Service Canada that is causing serious concern within this country‘s agriculture industry. A Feb. 14 email from Service Canada obtained by iPolitics, which was sent to all employers who use the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, highlights a policy that would allow officers of the agency to conduct surprise inspections and require employers of temporary foreign staff to allow investigations of their computers, electronic devices and documents – or risk losing their workers. As our agriculture reporter Kelsey Johnson reports, farmers say Service Canada told them they will let themselves onto the farm and start conducting the inspections even if the farmer is not present. They also say the policy as it stands now violates this country‘s food safety rules, which requires all visitors to farms to sign in and out; and jeopardises their farm‘s biosecurity measures, which are in place to protect their crops and livestock from disease. Here‘s what employers have to adhere to in the case of a compliance inspection: View image on Twitter

Kelsey Johnson@johnsonthree Here is the full list of obligations employers of temporary foreign workers must adhere to as part of a compliance inspection, according to the Service Canada memo. #cdnag #cdnpoli #westcdnag 12:36 AM - Mar 22, 2018

AROUND TOWN A marathon voting session could be in store for federal MPs in Ottawa today, with more than 30 hours of votes planned. The Conservatives say they‘re using the tactic to try and force the Liberal government to call National Security Advisor Daniel Jean to testify on the prime minister‘s recent trip to India. The Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture picks up where it left off with two more meetings about the potential impact of the effects of climate change on the agriculture, agri-food and forestry sectors. In a morning meeting the committee is scheduled to be witness to representatives of the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, InnoTech Alberta, Alberta Greenhouse Growers Association, Biological Carbon Canada, Alberta Innovates, and the University of Manitoba‘s Department of Plant Science. At its afternoon meeting, the Senate Agriculture Committee‘s will hear from two research scientists from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and two professors in the department of renewable resources at the University of Alberta. It‘s budget day in Alberta! It will be laid out around 3:15 p.m. MST. A reminder: The Advancing Women in Agriculture’s West 2018 conference gets is underway next Monday at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Calgary, Alta., while the same day in Toronto, the Canadian Global Crops Symposium begins. iPolitics’ Kelsey Johnson will have the latter covered from T.O. IN CANADA

THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld The Liberal government‘s contentious cannabis legalization bill is facing what could be an early showdown in the Senate Thursday — unusually, at a routine second reading stage vote — that could stop legalization in its tracks. iPolitics’ Kyle Duggan has the story. The Trudeau government‘s national science advisor says she plans to investigate this country’s fish farms. As The National Observer reports, details of the investigation were announced Wednesday. A 10 member independent panel will conduct the investigation and provide advice to the government on the future ―appropriate use of scientific evidence in decisions concerning aquaculture.‖ Health Canada has approved a request to sell genetically modified golden rice in Canada. The approval comes after the submission was initially put forward in 2017. Health Canada scientists conducted a thorough scientific assessment of the rice. ―Following this assessment, it was determined that the changes made in this rice variety did not pose a greater risk to human health than rice varieties currently available on the Canadian market,‖ a department notice reads.

―In addition, Health Canada also concluded that GR2E would have no impact on allergies, and that there were no differences in the nutritional value of GR2E compared to other traditional rice varieties available for consumption except for increased levels of provitamin A.‖ You can find the full notice here. INTERNATIONALLY U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer confirmed Wednesday that there‘s optimism around automobiles (reportedly the No. 1 issue in NAFTA talks), which has brought sides closer to sealing a deal on the trade pact.―We‘re finally starting to converge,‖ Lighthizer said, while delivering a progress report to the U.S. Congress. ―I think we‘re in a pretty good place.‖ The Canadian Press has more about the breakthrough.

Justin Tang/THE CANADIAN PRESS Here at home, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said for the first time a deal to renegotiate NAFTA was likely. ―We remain very confident that a win-win-win deal is not only possible, but likely,‖ Trudeau told a Toronto business audience. Reuters reports. In other trade related news: U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to announce tariffs on more than 100 types of goods from China today, after the stock markets close. The tariffs are reportedly in response to China stealing U.S. technologies and intellectual properties and are expected to total $50 billion. Bloomberg has more.

Also from Bloomberg: a projection of what Chinese goods may fall victim to new tariffs. Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal looks how China could respond, with the U.S. agricultural sector primed to take a hit by potential levies. As CNBC reports, U.S officials are already vowing to defend the country’s soybean industry against expected retaliatory tariffs from Beijing. China is the world‘s largest buyer of soybeans. And, sugary drinks of all kinds are getting an awful bad rep these days. The Washington Post examined what the effects could be of the United Kingdom‘s soon-to-be in place soda tax. NOTEWORTHY  Manitoba Hydro directors resign en masse after Premier Brian Pallister blocks payment to Métis Federation (Globe and Mail)  Contractor fraud investigations double in Alberta since 2015 (CBC News)  Chemical, mining industries say rail backlog causing plant shutdowns, lost sales (The Globe and Mail)  Premier says ‘persuasion money’ reason for mass resignation of Manitoba Hydro board (CBC News)  Cattle prices are expected to be good this year — but not 2017 good(Alberta Farmer Express)  In symbolic victory, Iran conquers Iraq’s dates market (Reuters)  Bayer clears EU hurdle for Monsanto deal with sale to BASF(Bloomberg)  Farming the sun’s rays: Should Australia follow India’s lead and create solar parks? (ABC Rural) FINALLY An American man has been reunited with his cat fourteen years after the ginger feline named T2 went missing in the aftermath of Hurricane Jeanne. CBS46 has the story. https://ipolitics.ca/2018/03/22/the-sprout-farmers-concerned-with-temporary-foreign-worker-policy/

Wheat in heat: the 'crazy idea' that could combat food insecurity

Durum wheat varieties can withstand 40C heat along the Senegal River basin, and could produce 600,000 tonnes of food Global development is supported by About this content Mark Hillsdon

Fri 23 Mar 2018 07.00 GMTLast modified on Fri 23 Mar 2018 07.41 GMT    

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After four years of trials, scientists have found a wheat variety that can grow quickly and survive in subSaharan heat. Photograph: Filippo Bassi/Icarda

In the northern Senegalese village of Ndiayene Pendao, close to the border with Mauritania, Fatouma Sow is pulling weeds. Her team of female farmers tread carefully among the tall, ripening plants as they prepare to harvest the country’s first ever crop of durum wheat. They had grown onions and tomatoes on the one-hectare plot (2.47 acres), Sow explains, but the crops took too long to grow and disrupted the essential rice growing season. Now the wheat offers a fast-growing, lucrative alternative. Following four years of trials, which saw thousands of wheat varieties tested in the unforgiving sub-Saharan heat, scientists have successfully turned what was first thought of as a ―crazy idea‖ into a vital new food crop. With more than 1 million smallholders living along the Senegal River basin, which also runs through Mali and Mauritania, it was an important strategic area to trial the wheat.

Africa 'very, very far away' from meeting global target to end child malnutrition Read more

The strain of wheat can withstand constant 40C temperatures, and has been developed by the International Centre for Research in the Dry Areas (Icarda). The so-called drylands cover more than 40% of the world’s land surface and despite the challenges, remain huge centres of agriculture, supporting half the world’s livestock. Wheat is traditionally seen as a cold climate crop, with most of it grown in the northern hemisphere. To find a strain that could withstand the heat of the African savannah, a genome fingerprinting research project was led by Icarda’s Dr Filippo Bassi and Prof Rodomiro Ortiz, from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences.

FacebookTwitterPinterest Durum wheat can fill a gap in the regional growing season along the Senegal River basin. Photograph: Filippo Bassi/Icarda Rather than go down a GM route, Icarda used advanced breeding techniques and its unique seedbank to combine characteristics of both modern and ancient strains.

―When we had this idea five years ago, people thought we were a bit crazy,‖ says Bassi. While crops such as maize shade their ―tassels‖, and rice droops down towards water, he explains, wheat grows upwards towards the sun. ―It just sits there taking this hammering on its head,‖ he says. ―Inside the spike, that’s where the flower blooms, it’s where the pollen is produced and where the grain sets – all this basically inside a microwave. If you can grow it here, you can grow it anywhere.‖ The wheat will fill an important gap in the regional growing season, with farmers planting two crops of rice a year either side of a fallow winter period between mid-November and March, when rice struggles to take hold.

If you can grow it here, you can grow it anywhere Filippo Bassi The new variety of wheat is fast growing, and can be harvested in just 92 days, ensuring it doesn’t impact on the rice. It can produce six tonnes per hectare, despite requiring less water than rice, and contains five times more protein, as well as more vitamins and minerals. Straw from the fields will also provide an important feed for livestock. The wheat has the potential to improve food security in other areas of the world at risk from rising temperatures, such as Sudan, Nigeria and countries in south Asia. The project won last year’s $50,000 Olam Prize for Innovation in Food Security. ―As climate change causes temperatures to rise, the usefulness of these varieties will expand to nearly all countries,‖ Bassi says. ―The African region has, on average, the lowest agricultural productivity in the world,‖ says Pascal Kosuth, director of the Agropolis Foundation, which supports scientific research into agriculture and co-sponsored the Olam award. ―Many countries from the continent have met increased demand for food through overseas food imports.‖

FacebookTwitterPinterest Workers collect rice grains in a recently harvested rice field at in Senegal. Photograph: Xaume Olleros/Bloomberg/Getty Images Senegal alone buys nearly â&#x201A;Ź30m of durum wheat a year from abroad, largely to make couscous and pasta, according to Icarda. Yet while one tonne of grain costs roughly the same as 100 packets of pasta, by growing the new wheat, farmers can transform that one tonne of grain into 2,000 packets of pasta. For eight months of the year rice is grown on more than 200,000 hectares across the three countries. Using this land to grow wheat in between rice crops has the potential to generate 600,000 tonnes of new food, says Bassi. The next step is to scale up production by supporting farmers, developing the infrastructure from storage to milling, and creating a market for the grain.

'Price of conflict is too high': hunger at crisis levels in eight countries Read more ―Developing sustainable agricultural production under severe climatic conditions and family farming systems requires an integrated effort, from plant breeding and seed systems to production systems, to product value chain as well as extension and training of farmers,‖ Kosuth says. International development plays an important role in supporting villages in this part of Senegal, with signs along the highways proclaiming how corporations from Korea, Italy and France are backing various projects from renewable energy to sustainable agriculture. Pendao doesn’t have a foreign benefactor, explains village elder Oumar Diallo. What they do have, he says, is land that’s ready to be cultivated, but to do it they need machinery, training and, of course, seed.

While the Senegalese government has acknowledged the importance of the project, it has yet to officially back the scheme. But Bassi is hopeful that international agencies and private companies will step in. ―By working closely with the farmers, we have gained their trust as they can see the benefit of planting this crop, which can be easily cultivated with minimum investment,‖ he says. ―Now we need to help create a route to market.‖ Since you’re here …

… we have a small favour to ask. More people are reading the Guardian than ever but advertising revenues across the media are falling fast. And unlike many news organisations, we haven’t put up a paywall – we want to keep our journalism as open as we can. So you can see why we need to ask for your help. The Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. But we do it because we believe our perspective matters – because it might well be your perspective, too. I appreciate there not being a paywall: it is more democratic for the media to be available for all and not a commodity to be purchased by a few. I’m happy to make a contribution so others with less means still have access to information.Thomasine, Sweden If everyone who reads our reporting, who likes it, helps fund it, our future would be much more secure. For as little as £1, you can support the Guardian – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2018/mar/23/heat-tolerant-durum-wheat-crazyidea-food-insecurity

Early Kharifseason to face 40pc water shortage: Irsa Listen

ISLAMABAD: The Indus River System Authority (Irsa) has anticipated that owing to reduced water inflow in the Indus Basin Irrigation System (IBIS), early Kharif season 2018, starting from April, would face around 40 percent irrigation water shortage that could delay crop sowing. There would be around 11.2 percent decline in the water flow in the IBIS as in the coming Kharif season, water flow in the system would be 95 million acres feet (MAF) against 107MAF last year. A technical committee of the authority met here with the Irsasâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; Director Operations Khalid Rana in the chair and was attended by the irrigation departmentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; officials of the all federating units and Wapda made these observations. The Water Accord 1991 empowered Irsa to determine water availability in the country and provincial share twice a year, once for Kharif season and the other for Rabi

season. Rabi season starts from October 1while Kharif starts from April 1. In Pakistan, Kharif crops, includes sugarcane, cotton, maize and rice. Rana said that initial analysis shows that early Kharif would face 30 to 40pc shortage of water, while in late season, it will reduce to five to ten pc. He further said that the met department has predicted less rains in early season but normal in monsoon. The advisory committee of the authority will meet on 29th March to approve water share plan of the four provinces on the basis of their requirements. It is worth mentioning that Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s two major water reservoirs, including Tarbela and Mangla, are currently at dead level. Independent experts are also anticipating grave water shortage in the months to come. Irsaâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s data says on Thursday that the Tarbela Dam was at its dead level of 1,386 feet of water, with inflow of 1,700 cusecs and outflow of 17,000 cusecs, having zero water storage. Water level at the Mangla Dam stood at 1,050 feet on Wednesday morning against its dead level of 1,040 feet, having storage of 0.033MAF. Inflow at Mangla was recorded at 12,500 cusecs against outflow of 13,700 cusecs. As a result, total inflow at rim stations were recorded at 44,300 cusecs against total outflow below rim stations at about 45,500 cusecs. The source said that the technical committee forecast of 40 percent shortage in the River Indus was supported by Irsa, Wapda and Sindh, but Punjab opposed such high losses. Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also showed concern about the high losses predicted for the River Indus and asked Irsa to take steps for rationalising the losses. Official of the Metrological Department informed the meeting that the month of April will be comparatively warmer and dryer. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/295701-early-kharifseason-to-face-40pc-water-shortage-irsa

Canada celebrates achievements, contributions of Pakistani women ď&#x201A;ˇ

National MARCH 22, 2018 BY INP

ISLAMABAD: The High Commission of Canada continued the celebrating the International Women’s Day with the launch of its new documentary “The Journey of Pakistani Women” on Thursday.

This retrospective documentary highlights the history of the Pakistani women’s movement and Canada’s support over the last three decades. A 17-minute film produced by Islamabad’s White Rice Communications, shares insights from several key Pakistani leaders, including Hina Jilani, Farida Shaheed, Khawar Mumtaz and Harris Khalique. Organisations such as the Kashf Foundation, Strengthening Participatory Organisation (SPO Pakistan), the Aurat Foundation, South Asia Partnership Pakistan and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) shared their thoughts on how best to help empower women and girls. Members of the audience were delighted to hear directly from women entrepreneurs and politicians who have benefited directly from Canadian support. In keeping with the documentary’s message, the Canadian high commission was pleased to convene a youth panel discussion. Canada remains committed to creating opportunities for Pakistani women to raise their voice as full members of the society. Agahi Foundation Founder and Chief Executive Officer Puruesh Chaudhary said, “Social media is increasingly becoming a bridge between girls that are being educated and the ones contributing their talent in the digital space along with workforce in a traditional

environment, thus fuelling growth and development of the communities, cities and countries.” Heinrich Böll Stiftung Pakistan Resource Equity, Energy Innovation and Climate Change Programme Coordinator Mome Saleem said, “Countries like Pakistan have come far in achieving many of the targets, however, the gender policy needs to be made a central pillar of the fragile and infant democracy, and the legal system of the country.” On the occasion, lawyer and activist Benazir Jatoi said, “The greatest obstacle for Pakistani women is that the legal frameworks that have been established over the years have not been translated into de facto enforceable rights. Despite the law telling us that we enjoy fundamental rights and equality but the social/institutional framework in which these laws operate do not allow for such rights to be enforced by those they seek to protect.” Canadian High Commissioner Perry Calderwood noted that Canada is building upon its 30 years of support for the empowerment and inclusion of women in Pakistan. “Empowerment is having the opportunity to make better choices through education, financial independence and the exercise of democratic rights. I am proud to say that Canada is committed to promoting gender equality not only as a human right but also as an essential element of sustainable

development. With the adoption of our Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada supports womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movement around the world in its work to overcome the economic and political marginalisation of women,â&#x20AC;? he said. https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2018/03/22/canada-celebrates-achievements-contributions-ofpakistani-women/

In-Depth Research: Basmati Rice Market by Leading key players | LT Foods, Best Foods, Kohinoor Rice, Aeroplane Rice 22 March 2018 - by info@htfmarketreport.com

HTF MI published a new industry research that focuses on Basmati Rice market and delivers indepth market analysis and future prospects of EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice market. The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for managers, analysts, industry experts and other key people get ready-to-access and self-analyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. The study is segmented by Application/ end users [Direct Edible & Deep Processing], products type [Indian Basmati Rice, Pakistani Basmati Rice, Kenya Basmati Rice & Other] and various important geographies like Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Benelux; & Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE and Iran;]. Get Access to sample pages @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1032687emea-europe-middle-east-and-africa-basmati-rice-market The research covers the current market size of the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice market and its growth rates based on 5 year history data along with company profile of key players/manufacturers. The in-depth information by segments of Basmati Rice market helps monitor future profitability & to make critical decisions for growth. The information on trends and developments, focuses on markets and materials, capacities, technologies, CAPEX cycle and the changing structure of the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice Market.

The study provides company profiling, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information of key manufacturers of EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice Market, some of them listed here are KRBL Limited, Amira Nature Foods, LT Foods, Best Foods, Kohinoor Rice, Aeroplane Rice, Tilda Basmati Rice, Matco Foods, Amar Singh Chawal Wala, Hanuman Rice Mills, Adani Wilmar, HAS Rice Pakistan, Galaxy Rice Mill, Dunar Foods & Sungold. The market is growing at a very rapid pace and with rise in technological innovation, competition and M&A activities in the industry many local and regional vendors are offering specific application products for varied end-users. The new manufacturer entrants in the market are finding it hard to compete with the international vendors based on quality, reliability, and innovations in technology. EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such as Indian Basmati Rice, Pakistani Basmati Rice, Kenya Basmati Rice & Other. Further the research study is segmented by Application such as Direct Edible & Deep Processing with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate. Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of Basmati Rice in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Benelux; & Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE and Iran; and its Share (%) and CAGR for the forecasted period 2017 to 2022. Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1032687-emea-europe-middle-east-andafrica-basmati-rice-market

Following would be the Chapters to display the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice market. Chapter 1, to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Basmati Rice, Applications of Basmati Rice, Market Segment by Regions; Chapter 2, to analyze the Manufacturing Cost Structure, Raw Material and Suppliers, Manufacturing Process, Industry Chain Structure; Chapter 3, to display the Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Basmati Rice, Capacity and Commercial Production Date, Manufacturing Plants Distribution, R&D Status and Technology Source, Raw Materials Sources Analysis; Chapter 4, to show the Overall Market Analysis, Capacity Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment); Chapter 5 and 6, to show the Regional Market Analysis that includes Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Benelux; & Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE and Iran;, Basmati Rice Segment Market Analysis (by Type); Chapter 7 and 8, to analyze the Basmati Rice Segment Market Analysis (by Application) Major Manufacturers Analysis of Basmati Rice; Chapter 9, Market Trend Analysis, Regional Market Trend, Market Trend by Product Type [Indian Basmati Rice, Pakistani Basmati Rice, Kenya Basmati Rice & Other], Market Trend by Application [Direct Edible & Deep Processing]; Chapter 10, Regional Marketing Type Analysis, International Trade Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis; Chapter 11, to analyze the Consumers Analysis of EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice; Chapter 12,13, 14 and 15, to describe Basmati Rice sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-beforebuy/1032687-emea-europe-middle-east-and-africa-basmati-rice-market What this Research Study Offers: EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Basmati Rice Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments Market share analysis of the top industry players Strategic recommendations for the new entrants Market forecasts for a minimum of 5 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations) Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends

Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements Buy this research report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buynow?format=1&report=1032687 Reasons for Buying this Report This report provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamics It provides a forward looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining market growth It provides a six-year forecast assessed on the basis of how the market is predicted to grow It helps in understanding the key product segments and their future It provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors It helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segments Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. About Author: HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the ―Accurate Forecast‖ in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their ―Goals & Objectives‖. Contact US : Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager) HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited Unit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJ New Jersey USA – 08837 Phone: +1 (206) 317 1218 sales@htfmarketreport.com

https://www.military-technologies.net/2018/03/22/in-depth-research-basmati-rice-market-byleading-key-players-lt-foods-best-foods-kohinoor-rice-aeroplane-rice/ https://www.militarytechnologies.net/2018/03/22/in-depth-research-basmati-rice-market-by-leading-key-players-lt-foodsbest-foods-kohinoor-rice-aeroplane-rice/

Customs intercept 20 smuggled vehicles, 1,060 bags of rice, others Published March 24, 2018

Some of the smuggled rice

Samuel Awoyinfa, Abeokuta The Ogun State Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service, says it has intercepted 20 smuggled used vehicles, popularly known as tokunbo, and 1,060 bags of foreign rice among other items, around the Idiroko border axis in two weeks. The state controller, Sani Madugu, disclosed this to journalists on Friday at the Idiroko border office of the command, stating that two suspects were also arrested.

He listed other seizures made within the period to include 158 kegs of vegetable oil, 159 cartons of frozen poultry products, 150 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), and five sacks and 30 bales of second hand clothes. He said 18 cars and 19 motorcycles used as means of conveying the smuggled goods were also impounded.

Some of the smuggled vehicles

Madugu, who said two suspected smugglers were arrested, explained that the duty payable value for all the seizures was over N169m (N169,767,475.00). Madugu said 10 out of the second-hand vehicles were seized in one day inside one compound where the smugglers hid them. He noted that Customs operatives broke the padlock used to lock the gate leading into the premises and removed the vehicles. He said, ―I want to warn again that we have intensified our surveillance and intelligence gathering. This has led to the haul of seizures the command had made in the last two weeks. ―The command intercepted 38 smuggled vehicles within the period under review. The breakdown showed that 20 of the vehicles were ‗tokunbo‘ vehicles and 18 were means of conveyance. ―Two suspects were also arrested and they would soon be charged to court.‖ Madugu said strategic plans had been made to ensure that punitive measures would no longer be limited to seizure of smuggled goods, but efforts would be geared towards apprehending and prosecution of smugglers to serve as deterrent to others. http://punchng.com/customs-intercept-20-smuggled-vehicles-1060-bags-of-rice-others/

4, 000 Kebbi rice farmers receive ‗Agribooster‘ from firm ON MARCH 23, 201812:24 PMIN NEWSCOMMENTS …as Kebbi attains self-sufficiency in rice production, supply By Gabriel Ewepu ABUJA– RICE farmers numbering 4,000 in Kebbi State have received

agricultural support called ‗Agriboost‘ from a firm, OCP Africa, a leading global fertilizer company. The Country Manager, OCP Africa, Mr Caleb Usoh, at the launch of OCP Africa ‗Agribooster‘ for rice farmers held in Kalgo, Kebbi State, explained that the ‗Agribooster‘ programme was part of the company‘s ongoing efforts to facilitate the provision of all necessary resources, training, extension service and market access for smallholder farmers across the country. According to Usoh the launch serves as signaling the company‘s commitment to the development of long term, sustainable agriculture particularly in Nigeria, and Africa in general. OCP Africa initiated the project in collaboration with AFEX Commodities Exchange Limited, Syngenta, OXFAM and LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited (LAPO), enabling expertise sharing among the different partners according to their area of specialization. Nigeria is one of the first of 12 African countries in which OCP Africa currently operates. The Nigerian operation serves as fully integrated subsidiary dedicated to transform the country‘s smallholder farms into modern, productive and sustainable operations. He said: ―The ‗Agribooster‘ programme is a unique initiative that works across the supply chain to connect African farmers with quality inputs, financing and insurance and provides comprehensive training on proper input use, thereby increasing farmers‘ crop yields and incomes. ―The programme also supports the strengthening of the farmers‘ commercial ties and enables them to benefit from training and extension/propagation services based on agricultural best practices.‖ He further stated that the trial phase of the programme was first deployed in Kaduna State, where nearly 5,000 smallholder maize farmers were reached, which led to an increase in their productivity by up to 41 per cent. This success allowed the project to be extended to rice farmers during the dry season in Kebbi State, where OCP Africa currently supports 4,000 smallholder farmers in the Suru, Argungu and Birnin Kebbi regions of the State. In this arrangement, OCP Africa takes responsibility for the supply of high quality fertilizer, training and extension services support to these farmers that AFEX and Oxfam have enumerated and registered within Suru, Argungu and Birnin Kebbi communities of Kebbi State. Syngenta provides the farmers with high quality hybrid seeds and crop protection products. AFEX, guarantees storage and offtake market to farmers after harvest. LAPO Microfinance Bank provides input loans to the registered farmers to facilitate supply of the input packages. On training of the farmers OCP Africa has contracted Global Fertile Fields Limited (GFFL) to train farmers using the Training of Trainers (ToT) approach as well as provide continuous extension services to monitor the farmers, from pre-season to post-harvest. In his remarks the Kebbi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, who was represented by Muhammed Umar Illo, disclosed that the State has attained self-sufficiency in rice production, and now supplies the food item in large quantities to other states of the federation. According to him from December 2015 till date, the output of the average rice farmer in the Kebbi State has risen from 2.5 metric tons per hectare to 11 metric tons per hectare. Expressing gratitude for the gesture by OCP Africa, the President, Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, RIFAN, Alhaji Aminu Goronyo, said rice farmers in Kebbi State in 2017 produced 1 million metric

tonnes of rice of the consumed 7.9 million metric tonnes of rice Nigerians consumed in 2017, with the country‘s local farmers producing 5.8 million tonnes of rice put together in 2017. According to Goronyo with greater investment, especially from the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme, ABP, and better access to farm inputs, Kebbi State plans to raise its rice production to 2.5 million metric tonnes in 2018, in order to maintain its lead as largest rice producer in the country. Rice is grown mainly in 16, out of the 21 Local Government Areas of Kebbi State, which it projects a production of about 50 per cent of all the locally grown rice in Nigeria for few years to come. Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/03/4-000-kebbi-rice-farmers-receiveagribooster-from-firm/

Woman surrenders daughter to settle debt of N100 rice A mum who saw her daughter only fit to settle money owed following a rice purchase has been nabbed.    

Published: 23.03.2018 Ayodele Johnson Print eMail

play A woman who reportedly gave a rice seller her daughter in a bid to settle a debt has been apprehended. (ThisDayLive)

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In Ebonyi State, Nigeria, a woman has surrendered her daughter, Uloma, in order to settle a N100 debt. The amount was money expected after a purchase of rice. Pressures from seller soon forced the mother, Mrs. Veronica Igwe, to offer the child in a bid to fulfill obligations, Punch News reports.

Mrs. Cecilia Elom, in charge of cases relating to child abuse and maltreatment at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, confirmed this while interacting with newsmen. She added that the mum was handed over the police after honouring a meeting invitation. “On reaching the area, we saw little Uloma with another seven-year-old boy hawking. "When we interrogated them, they said Nwali, whom they were living with, forced them to hawk. “Officials of the Ministry of Women Affairs invited the suspect to the office. "She honoured the invitation and was handed over to the Ebonyi State Police Command for interrogation,” Elom told reporters. The shocking incident resonates with the action of 30-year-old Rosemary Okafor, who used money realised from the sale of a newborn baby to groom older children. Mom sells newborn baby to raise older kids Rosemary Okafor, a 30-year-old mom has been arrested for selling her newborn baby for the sum of N350,000. She had planned to use the money acquired to raise three other kids. She was apprehended by reps from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). Okafor, it was gathered, was lined up among a group of human traffickers engaged in the abduction and sale of children.

play A grandmother got a chance to nurse a set of twins made possible through her dead son's sperm. (Essence)

ALSO READ: Grieving mom gets twins from dead son's sperm The mother is part of a crop of 8 men and 3 women, nabbed on suspicion of abuse related to the sale of human persons in Lagos, Abuja and the south-eastern part of Nigeria. According to reports, she admitted selling the baby in order to raise funds needed for the tuition fees of other children. http://www.worldgrain.com/articles/news_home/Supplier_Update/2018/03/Depart_Satake_host_Rice_Miller.aspx?ID={E 2756D49-CA1E-4CF9-A15E-54316DD5EF31} https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/speciality-rice-varieties-of-kerala-arestorehouse-of-nutrition-study/article23334574.ece

Indian American-led Research Team Awarded $10 Million NSF Grant to Develop Camera to Probe Beneath Skin 

India-West Staff Reporter

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Mar 23, 2018

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Rice University professor of electrical and computer engineering Ashutosh Sabharwal is the principal investigator on the grant. (Rice University photo)

Srinivasa Narasimhan of CMU is the associate director of the new project. (CMU photo)     

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Sabharwal pointed to white blood cell count tests, which require a finger prick or a blood draw, as an example of the project's potential impact. In the U.S., oncologists use millions of WBC tests each week to monitor chemotherapy patients, CMU said. ―Imagine a wearable device no larger than a watch that uses sensors to continuously measure white blood cell count and wirelessly communicate with the oncologist's office,‖ Sabharwal said in a statement. ―The patient could go about their daily life. They'd only have to go to the hospital if there was a problem.‖ Sabharwal said it is crucial to understand that scatterography will not aid in managing just one or two healthcare problems, the CMU report added. ―If we succeed, this isn't just one product,‖ he went on. ―It's a platform technology that will be able to spinoff into many products that can be used in the care of nearly 100 health conditions.‖ Other investigators include Ashok Veeraraghavan, Richard Baraniuk, Rebecca Richards-Kortum and Lin Zhong at Rice; Al Molnar at Cornell, Latanya Sweeney at Harvard, and Ramesh Raskar at MIT. http://www.indiawest.com/news/global_indian/indian-american-led-research-team-awardedmillion-nsf-grant-to/article_5c86fc82-2df9-11e8-9588-8f2b9bb2c5c2.html

Rice millers warned of action if bank guarantees not provided THE HANS INDIA | Mar 24,2018 , 04:34 AM IST

Rice millers warned of action if bank guarantees not provided

Nellore: District In-charge Collector A Md Imtiaz said that 75 boiled rice millers in the district should provide bank guarantees for Rs 75 crore before March 27. He warned of action of rice millers fails to provide bank guarantees. Imtiaz held a review meeting with the rice millers at Golden Jubilee Hall here on Friday. Speaking at the meeting, he said that the district administration has been focusing on welfare of the farmers.

Ministers in the district and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu are keen on rescuing distressed farmers, the In-charge Collector stated. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Though the rice millers in the district can provide bank guarantees but they are not coming forward,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; said Imtiaz Ahmed. Civil Supplies Managing Director and Commissioner have taken the issue of bank guarantee issue very seriously, he informed rice millers.

Imtiaz also explained that farmers in the district have cultivated paddy in huge extent and there is a need to save their interests. In-charge Collector also said that state government would provide Rs 639 to rice millers per putti for NLR Masuri paddy variety. Rice millers should not take 2 kilos of rice from the farmers per bag, he warned. In-charge Civil Supplies Officer (CSO) Ramana said that they had not achieved good results despite putting efforts for procurement for last one month.

He informed that 103 Paddy Purchasing Centres have been working actively out of 168 centres across the district. ―Only 50 per cent of paddy was collected as against the target of 5,000 metric tonnes per day from these centres, said the Civil Supplies Officer. He explained that rice millers have provided Rs 40 crore bank guarantees till now against Rs 150 crore.

In-charge Collector made it clear that state government would take action against the rice millers if they fail to support the farmers. Rice Millers Association President S Koteswar Rao, Y Rangaiah Naidu, Ongole Rice Millers Association President Srinivasulu and others were present. Further, Imtiaz flagged off the mobile publicity vehicle to create awareness about tuberculosis at his camp office. http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/AndhraPradesh/2018-03-24/Rice-millers-warned-of-action-if-bank-guarantees-not-provided/369020

CSIR And Lancaster University Comence "Water For Food Production" Project Eric Gyimah/mothergh.wordpress.com 

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The Crop Research Institute (CRI) of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in collaboration with the Lancaster University has began the implementation of the Water For Food Project for rice production in Ghana. Dr. Stephen Yeboah, a crop research scientist of the CRI and project team leader, disclosed that, the four year project which commenced in January 2018 is aimed at developing a technology to ensure the efficient management of water and crop nutrients application in rice production. The researcher said the "Alternate Wetting and Drying" technology that the Council in partnership with the Lancaster University is developing will help increase crop yield whilst limiting the demand of water for irrigation in rice cultivation. Dr Yeboah pointed out that water management has become the necessary means of ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity in order to achieve food security in the country in particular and the world at large. He indicated that the current universal statistics on water is alarming and fast becoming a threat to global agricultural productivity especially the rice venture which demands large volumes of water hence the need to adapt the water management approach.

He argued that about 70 percent of the world's water resource is used for agricultural purposes which if not checked will have negative impact on global food security in the near future, as a result, research institutions and scientists need to develop a farming technology which can address the challenge. Dr. Yeboah indicated that the over application of crop nutrients such as nitrogen fertilizer with the aim of increasing rice yield has negative consequences on the environment. "In this regard, that the Water for Food Production project is also aimed at reducing green house gasses emissions such as nitrous oxide and methane though optimise nutrient application technology", the researcher disclosed. He explained further that, soil microbes that feed on the applied crop nutrients (fertilizers) emit nitrous oxide and methane gasses adding, "the more these microbes feed on much fertilizer, the more green house gasses emitted into the environment". He said the nutrients management aspect of the technology will serve both economical and environmental purposes, thus reducing the quantity of nitrogen fertilizer wastage in order to achieve low carbon while promoting green growth for a healthy environment for a healthy society. Dr. Stephen Yeboah is therefore optimistic that the Water for Food Production technology, as a component of the RECIRCULATE project will help address the high demand of water and crop nutrients in the production of the cereal. https://www.modernghana.com/news/843341/csir-and-lancaster-university-comence-waterfor-food-produc.html

Pakistan Food Security Bulletin, Issue 7 (July - December 2017) REPORT from World Food Programme Published on 31 Dec 2017 —View Original

Download PDF (741.91 KB) Highlights 

Pakistan’s overall Prevalence of Undernourishment (PoU) is estimated to be about 18 percent of the entire population.

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Integrated Context Analysis (ICA) on Vulnerability to Food Insecurity and Natural Hazards of Pakistan, categorized 123 districts of four provinces and seven Agencies of FATA into five levels of vulnerability.

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Total national wheat crop production for 2016‐17 grew by 4.1 percent compared to 2015‐16. While production of rice for 2017‐18 has been estimated at 9.2 percent higher than 2016‐17 production.

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Prices of staple crops (wheat, wheat flour, rice Irri‐6 and Basmati) remained stable with slight fluctuations, while prices of several non‐cereal food commodities slightly decreased. However, the

prices of live chicken, eggs, cooking oil and vegetable ghee increased. The fuel prices slightly increased for both Super Petrol and High Speed Diesel (HSD). 

Terms‐of‐Trade (ToT) increased by 7.9 percent from June 2017 mainly due to increased daily wages.

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Some 17,542 families returned to their areas of origin in FATA during the reporting period; 29,059 families are still in displacement.

https://reliefweb.int/report/pakistan/pakistan -food-security-bulletin-issue-7-julydecember-2017 Zim spends $80m on rice importation

Livingstone Marufu Business Reporter ZIMBABWE expects to start commercial rice production in the next season or two as the

country moves to cut annual rice importation expenditure of over $80 million, a senior Government official has said.

Government together with Seed Co are carrying out final feasibility studies of rice growing and are touring various rice growing countries to acquaint themselves with technology and viable methods of growing the cereal.

Lands, Agriculture, Rural Resettlement Minister Perence Shiri said it is high time the country should start growing rice to save foreign currency.

―Zimbabwe is a net importer of rice and spends about $80 million annually to import the cereal.

―We can cut our import bill by growing commercial rice locally and I am very happy that Seed Co are here (Rattray Arnold research station) and are working towards the commercial seed rice production which will see many farmers starting to grow rice at a commercial scale,‖ said Minister Shiri.

A team of experts from his ministry have already gone to Egypt to familiarise with rice production in one of Africa‘s largest producer.

Preliminary research has shown that the country can produce rice using hybrid varieties without any problem.

New rice varieties need a lot of water in the first two months and the country has sufficient water to support rice production.

Seed Co has successfully tested their seed rice in Pakistan and other countries and the biggest trial is to ensure whether those seeds will successfully grow well or not locally.

According to research carried out in other countries, farmers have improved average rice production to almost 10 tonnes per hectare using hybrid varieties. And Seed Co intends to bring that expertise to local farmers.

Seed Co managing director Denias Zaranyika said: ―We are certain that commercial rice production will be a success in Zimbabwe and currently we are still carrying out a number assessments before kick starting the programme. We will definitely be providing seeds for the programme and we are at an advanced stage to complete the job.‖

Seed Co has started growing rice at its research station and soon could avail seeds to many farmers.

Another local firm Life Brand Agriculture Services is planning to put 10 000 hectares of rice in Masvingo — a project set to showcase Tokwe-Mukosi Dam‘s humongous impact on farming.

Life Brand wants to produce over 300tonnes of rice domestically and es tablishing foreign markets like the Middle East.

It has three good varieties of rice; the first was sourced from Malawi and the other two from China.

Rice has become a priority crop in Africa with many countries looking at expanding production of the crop to achieve food self-sufficiency.

https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-spends-80m-on-rice-importation/

In food news: Thai, Moroccan and East Asian cuisine in Turkey LEYLA YVONNE ERGIL

ISTANBUL PublishedMarch 22, 2018

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Casablanca Pop-Up Cuisine

If you love variety and miss dishes from Asia and Africa, then this month there are a number of wonderful, colorful culinary events to tickle your taste buds This month, expats in Istanbul will be introducing and dishing up delectable delights from all over the world so the rest of us may have the lucky chance to get a taste. Check out the following events featuring fine flavors from destinations such as Thailand and Morocco. Tastes of Southeast Asia: Thailand's Market #2

A Thai woman in traditional clothing at last year's Thailand's Market event. This Sunday, March 25, the Thai Women in Turkey have organized the second edition of their Thailand's Market, which will take place at Mรถvenpick Hotel, located in 4. Levent from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. I had the opportunity to catch up with Dolly, the organizer of this event and the Thai Women in Turkey organization, which was founded in 2014. Since then, they have been attending charity events and have hosted a handful of others, but nothing has reached the scope of their past Thailand's Market, which was held in November in Istanbul and saw 1,200 people attend.

The second edition of Thailand's Market, held to promote Thai cuisine and culture and to support fellow Thai women living in Turkey, is set to be even bigger. This will be a great opportunity to discover Thai delights such as bubble tea and enjoy homemade Thai street food. There will be ample ingredients on hand to purchase as well as Thai fruits and vegetables and other Southeast Asian food products from Indonesia and the Philippines. There will also be Thai handicrafts on display as well as Thai spa products. If you are lucky, you may even get in a mini Thai massage, which will also be on offer throughout the day. There will be Thai music playing in the background and traditional Thai dances by the Thai expat community. Some of the highlights of the event include a Thai Spicy Food Eating Competition as well as a Lucky Draw Donation Charity. Entrance is free to this event so you can wander in and out and peruse as you like. New pop-up dinner series: Casablanca Pop-Up Cuisine There is a new pop-up dinner series in town by the name of Casablanca Pop-Up Cuisine, which dishes up Moroccan food. Run by Assia Amghar, a Moroccan expat who moved to Istanbul a year-and-a-half ago after visiting and becoming mesmerized by Turkey, this new Pop-Up Dinner series is becoming popular among the expat community and offers a unique opportunity to taste traditional dishes from North Africa. Walking away from the world of finance, in Istanbul it is Amghar's culinary talents that have surfaced. One day, she prepared a series of traditional dishes from her country and left them as a surprise gift of gratitude in the home of one of her first friends in Turkey, Turkish-Spanish expat Alper Rozanes, and it was he who gave her the realization that she could share these delicacies with people who would greatly enjoy them in a setting that would complement the meal and make for a unique dining experience. Since then, she has hosted a series of Pop-Up Dinners, mostly held in unique locations and some at private homes. On Thursday, March 29, Amghar will be making a special

appearance for a Moroccan cooking class that will be held at the Circolo Roma Italian cultural center in Tepebaşı from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will prepare a Moroccan pumpkin salad, apricots stuffed with meat and apples stuffed with dried fruit. Then, on Saturday, March 31, Casablanca Pop-Up Cuisine will hold a dinner at the SG İmalathane cooking school in Sarıyer and on Saturday, April 7, there will be a Casablanca Pop-Up Cuisine Dinner held at Rozanes's home in Cihangir. Check out the Facebook page for further info. Marking the end of fishing season: The Last Supper Pop-Up Run by a Singaporean-Dutch expat and former restaurateur, Pop-Up Dinners Istanbul is a popular dining series frequented by the expat community that is held in Cihangir. On Saturday, March 31, starting at 8:30 p.m., Pop-Up Dinners Istanbul commemorates the close of fishing season with a special meal, "The Last Supper," which will incorporate as much fresh produce from the sea as possible with an Asian flavor profile. There will be three types of maki rolls, Singaporean noodles with calamari and shrimp, shark and basmati rice, and for dessert Eton mess with a salted caramel sauce. Check out the Facebook page to reserve your spot, as they fill up fast, and to find out further info. https://www.dailysabah.com/expat-corner/2018/03/23/in-food-news-thai-moroccan-and-east-asiancuisine-in-turkey

Negligence led to damage of 20,000 metric tonne of wheat: CAG Sanjeev Verma| TNN | Mar 23, 2018, 07:38 IST

The stock worth Rs 47.06 crore was damaged in year 2014-15

CHANDIGARH: Failure of two Punjab wheat procurement agencies to observe storage guidelines by storing fresh wheat alongside infested stock has resulted in damage to 20,209 metric tonnes of wheat in Moga for procurement year 2014-15. The stock was worth Rs 47.06 crore. The violation has been highlighted by the comptroller and auditor general (CAG) in its recent report. Punjab State Civil Supplies Corporation Limited (Punsup) and Punjab Agro Foodgrains Corporation Limited (Pafcl) procured wheat for central pool on behalf of the FCI. The auditor said though the matter was referred to the the state government in May 2017, its replies were awaited till November 2017. The auditor has also highlighted misappropriation of paddy by rice millers in the state. It said failure of procurement agencies to adhere to the safeguards provided in the Custom Milling Policy, 2015-16, facilitated misappropriation of paddy by millers and consequential non-recovery of paddy worth Rs 12.69 crore.

The auditor has mentioned that scrutiny of records of kharif marketing season 2015-

16 revealed that around 32,328 metric tonnes of paddy was stored with six millers in Bathinda, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur and Jalandhar districts against which they were required to deliver around 21,660 metric tonnes of rice (at out-turn ratio of 67%). â&#x20AC;&#x2022;However, these millers delivered only 18,372 metric tonnes rice by the due date i.e. May 31, 2016, and misappropriated the balance paddy equivalent to 3,287 metric tonnes of rice valued at Rs 12.69 crore (including Rs 2.97 crore being cost of gunnies, interest and other recoveries),â&#x20AC;&#x2013; reads the report.

The report also highlighted the fact that although these defaulting millers had failed to meet the milling schedule, the unmilled paddy was not shifted to other millers even though 21 were available who had already completed 100% milling of their allotted paddy between February 16, 2016, and April 25, 2016. The CAG also pointed out that the system of videography and issue of paddy against advance rice was also not adhered to by the Punsup in the case of these millers.

The CAG also brought to light that non-observance of the directions of the central and the state government to utilize once used gunny bags lying with the millers resulted in blockade of funds of Rs 60.09 crore and loss of interest to the tune of Rs 6.50 crore. In case of Pafcl, the CAG has said that it failed to maintain the quality of wheat stock and delayed the delivery of upgraded wheat. Resultantly, it could not get reimbursement of carry-over charges amounting to Rs 2.32 crore.

The CAG has said that its audit indicates that director, food, civil supplies and

consumer affairs, was unable to obtain compliance of its directives by the state procurement agencies (SPAs). It has said that, â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Non-reconciliation or settlement of bales exchanged on loan basis against the directives of the abovesaid director resulted in non-recovery of Rs 132.62 crore, interest loss of Rs 58.07 crore to the SPAs, shortage of bales of Rs 1.19 crore, excess deductions of Rs 9.30 crore made by the FCI and non-deposit of VAT totalling Rs 4.15 crore.â&#x20AC;&#x2013; The CAG had brought the fact to the notice of the state government and the SPAs in May 2017 but till November 2017, they had not replied to it. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/negligence-led-to-damage-of20k-metric-tonne-of-wheat-cag/articleshow/63421336.cms

EG sets record in milling 96 pc of paddy THE HANS INDIA | Mar 23,2018 , 05:58 AM IST

EG sets record in milling 96 pc of paddy

Kakinada: District Joint Collector Mallikarjuna ordered all the rice millers in the district to deliver the CM (Custom Milled) rice which they had purchased from paddy purchasing centres in the district during this Kharif season.

The JC convened a review meeting with the rice millers, civil supply officials on Custom Milled rice at his chamber in the Collectorate on Wednesday evening. Speaking on this occasion, the JC informed that 365 rice millers were requested to mill 9, 73,987 tonnes of paddy which was purchased from the ryots in the district during this season. The JC explained that 6,30,640 tonnes of paddy was milled and East Godavari sets a record by milling 96 percent of paddy that was procured from the PPCs (Paddy Purchasing Centres) in Andhra Pradesh. He ordered the officials and millers that they should deliver the remaining rice before the March 31. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;If any rice miller fails to deliver the remaining amount of custom milled rice, the district administration will take action against the rice mills besides transferring the millerâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s bank guarantee to the civil supply department,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; Mallikarjuna said. He ordered the officials that they should take measures to gather the remaining amount of milled rice from the rice millers who took the paddy for milling.

He warned the millers that if their staff finds that the government paddy was not being milled in any rice mill they would take action on the rice mill according to Custom Milling Police, 2018.

Civil Supplies District Manager Krishna Rao, Rice Millers Association president Rama Krishna Reddy, Assistant Supply Officers Suresh, Bala Krishna, Purushottam, Uday Bhaskar and other officials participated http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2018-03-23/EG-sets-record-in-milling-96pc-of-paddy/368746

FG targets 17 million rice farmers this year Published March 23, 2018

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Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed

commenced the cultivation of rice on additional 200,000 hectares of land in different states across the country. He stated that 25 farmers would cultivate the crop on each hectare, adding that a total of five million farmers would be needed to work on the 200,000 hectares of farmland. Mohammed further explained that the initiative had commenced in Kano, where 31,000 farmers had been engaged by the Central Bank of Nigeria through the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme. He said, ―We‘ve grown the number of rice farmers from five million two years ago to over 12 million today. And there is a pilot scheme going on this season again with 200,000 hectares for the cultivation of rice. Now, each hectare employs 25 people; so that will have another five million people that will be added to the rice revolution. ―We want to make Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production and the fact that we are now growing the number of our farmers and we are reducing importation means that we are gradually getting to our target of self sufficiency in food production. ―The cultivation of rice on 200,000 hectares has been flagged off and right now, about 31,000 farmers are being empowered by the CBN under this initiative in Kano this season.‖ Mohammed stated that aside from Kebbi State, one of the most popular states involved the project, 31 other states were already planting rice in commercial quantity.

―There are 32 states producing rice in Nigeria and the same model is being used, which is the CBN Anchor Borrowers programme. This programme provides the farmers with seedlings, farm inputs, extension and advisory services, among others. And we can see the result of this programme,‖ he said. The minister reiterated that Thailand had commenced moves to establish rice mills in Nigeria, encouraged by the increasing number of farmers and states involved in rice production in the country. He said the Federal Government had won its fight against rice importation, especially from Thailand, as Nigeria had reduced its importation of rice by over 90 per cent. ―As we speak today, Thailand rice growers are making passionate appeal to the Federal Government. What they are doing now is that they want to set up rice mills in Nigeria, which means we have won,‖ Mohammed stated. When asked again to explain why Thailand rice producers were pushing to set up mills in Nigeria, Mohammed said, ―Thailand wants to set up several rice mills in Nigeria because we have stopped importing from them.‖ He stated that Nigeria was able to cut down on the importation of rice from Thailand from 644,000 metric tonnes two years ago to a little over 20,000MT currently.

Mohammed particularly lauded the Kebbi State Government as he noted that the state was pushing the country‘s rice revolution to greater heights. Speaking alongside the information minister, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Kebbi State, Mohammed Dandiga, said over 200,000 farmers were involved in the cultivation of rice across the 16 local government areas in the state. He said Kebbi had attained self-sufficiency in rice production and was already supplying the commodity in large quantity to other states of the federation. Dandiga noted that between December 2015 and March 2018, the volume of rice from Kebbi State has grown from 2.5 metric tonnes per hectare to 11 metric tonnes per hectare. He said, ―For us, this is something very important, considering the impact which it has on wealth creation for these farmers, particularly since the past two years. We are working hard to increase the participation of others who are interested in agriculture because we now have off-takers. ―Nigerian rice is now the preferred choice, unlike what it used to be in the past and this is because we now have standard rice mills in Kebbi and some other parts of the country.‖ The President, Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, Aminu Goronyo, recently stated that Nigerians consumed about 7.9 million tonnes of rice

in 2017, with the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s local farmers producing 5.8 million tonnes last year. Out of this local production, Kebbi State accounted for about one million tonnes last year. The state government recently stated that with greater investment, especially from the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme and better access to farm inputs, Kebbi planned to raise its rice production to 2.5 million metric tonnes in 2018. Rice is grown mainly in 16, out of the 21 local government areas in Kebbi State. In August 2017, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo inaugurated a N10bn rice mill in Argungu, Kebbi State, with a milling capacity of 500,000 tonnes. The Kebbi State Governor, Abubakar Bagudu, recently announced that the 200,000 farmers in his state were growing rice on over 400,000 hectares. He said, â&#x20AC;&#x2022;It is heart-warming for us to know that we are able to create wealth for rice farmers and that as a result of the production of rice in Kebbi, Nigeria has been able to reduce its importation of rice by over 90 per cent. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;This is good news and it shows that a lot of people not just in Kebbi State are now producing rice and very soon, we will start exporting the commodity. In Kebbi, there are farmers who are under the Central Bank of Nigeria Anchor Borrowers programme.

â&#x20AC;&#x2022;We also have those who work for private companies. A large number of farmers numbering about 200,000 are into rice production in our state and they now cultivate on not less than 400,000 hectares of land across the state.

FG targets 17 million rice farmers this year Published March 23, 2018

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Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed

commenced the cultivation of rice on additional 200,000 hectares of land in different states across the country. He stated that 25 farmers would cultivate the crop on each hectare, adding that a total of five million farmers would be needed to work on the 200,000 hectares of farmland. Mohammed further explained that the initiative had commenced in Kano, where 31,000 farmers had been engaged by the Central Bank of Nigeria through the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme. He said, ―We‘ve grown the number of rice farmers from five million two years ago to over 12 million today. And there is a pilot scheme going on this season again with 200,000 hectares for the cultivation of rice. Now, each hectare employs 25 people; so that will have another five million people that will be added to the rice revolution. ―We want to make Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production and the fact that we are now growing the number of our farmers and we are reducing importation means that we are gradually getting to our target of selfsufficiency in food production. ―The cultivation of rice on 200,000 hectares has been flagged off and right now, about 31,000 farmers are being empowered by the CBN under this initiative in Kano this season.‖ Mohammed stated that aside from Kebbi State, one of the most popular states involved the project, 31 other states were already planting rice in commercial quantity.

―We also have those who work for private companies. A large number of farmers numbering about 200,000 are into rice production in our state and they now cultivate on not less than 400,000 hectares of land across the state. http://punchng.com/fg-targets-17-million-rice-farmers-this-year/

Hurricane Harvey's toxic impact deeper than public told  

By FRANK BAJAK of THE ASSOCIATED PRESS and LISE OLSEN of the HOUSTON CHRONICLE, Associated Press and Houston Chronicle Mar 22, 2018 Updated Mar 22, 2018



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In this Jan. 24, 2018 photo, Galena Park is hemmed in by heavy industry just east of downtown Houston along the ship channel. (Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via AP) Elizabeth Conley

HOUSTON (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A toxic onslaught from the nation's petrochemical hub was largely overshadowed by the record-shattering deluge of Hurricane Harvey as residents and first responders struggled to save lives and property. More than a half-year after floodwaters swamped America's fourth-largest city, the extent of this environmental assault is beginning to surface, while questions about the long-term consequences for human health remain unanswered. County, state and federal records pieced together by The Associated Press and The Houston Chronicle reveal a far more widespread toxic impact than authorities publicly reported after the storm slammed into the Texas coast in late August and then stalled over the Houston area. Some 500 chemical plants, 10 refineries and more than 6,670 miles of intertwined oil, gas and chemical pipelines line the nation's largest energy corridor. Nearly half a billion gallons of industrial wastewater mixed with storm water surged out of just one chemical plant in Baytown, east of Houston on the upper shores of Galveston Bay. Benzene, vinyl chloride, butadiene and other known human carcinogens were among the dozens of tons of industrial toxins released into surrounding neighborhoods and waterways following Harvey's torrential rains. In all, reporters catalogued more than 100 Harvey-related toxic releases â&#x20AC;&#x201D; on land, in water and in the air. Most were never publicized, and in the case of two of the biggest ones, the extent or potential toxicity of the releases was initially understated. Only a handful of the industrial spills have been investigated by federal regulators, reporters found.

Texas regulators say they have investigated 89 incidents, but have yet to announce any enforcement actions. Testing by state and federal regulators of soil and water for contaminants was largely limited to Superfund toxic waste sites. Based on widespread air monitoring, including flyovers, officials repeatedly assured the public that post-Harvey air pollution posed no health threat. But the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency official in charge now says these general assessments did not necessarily reflect local "hotspots" with potential risk to people. Regulators alerted the public to dangers from just two, well-publicized toxic disasters: the Arkema chemical plant northeast of Houston that exploded and burned for days, and a nearby dioxin-laden federal Superfund site whose protective cap was damaged by the raging San Jacinto River. Samuel Coleman, who was the EPA's acting regional administrator during Harvey, said the priority in the immediate aftermath was "addressing any environmental harms as quickly as possible as opposed to making announcements about what the problem was." In hindsight, he said, it might not have been a bad idea to inform the public about the worst of "dozens of spills." Local officials say the state's industry-friendly approach has weakened efforts by the city of Houston and surrounding Harris County to build cases against and force cleanup by the companies, many of them repeat environmental offenders.

"The public will probably never know the extent of what happened to the environment after Harvey. But the individual companies of course know," said Rock Owens, supervising environmental attorney for Harris County, home to Houston and 4.7 million residents. The chairman of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Bryan Shaw, declined when asked by lawmakers in January to identify the worst spills and their locations. He told a legislative subcommittee hearing he could not publicly discuss spills until his staff completed a review. The amount of post-Harvey government testing contrasts sharply with what happened after two other major Gulf Coast hurricanes. After Hurricane Ike hit Texas in 2008, state regulators collected 85 sediment samples to measure the contamination; more than a dozen violations were identified and cleanups were carried out, according to a state review. In Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina's floodwaters ravaged New Orleans in 2005, the EPA and Louisiana officials examined about 1,800 soil samples over 10 months, EPA records showed. "Now the response is completely different," said Scott Frickel, an environmental sociologist formerly at Tulane University in New Orleans. Frickel, now at Brown University, called the Harvey response "unconscionable" given Houston's exponentially larger industrial footprint. Reporters covered some environmental crises as they happened, such as AP's exclusive on the flooding of toxic waste sites and the Chronicle's Arkema warnings before fires broke out. But the sheer quantity of spills was impossible to document in real time. Academic researchers are now trying to fill in the gaps in environmental monitoring, helped by grants from the National Science Foundation and National Institute of Environmental Health

Sciences. One project, a Harvey-related public health registry for Houston, was funded just this month but is not yet underway. "People are left in a state of limbo of not knowing if they were exposed or not — or if they were, what the implications are for their health," said Dr. Nicole Lurie, who oversaw federal public health responses to the Superstorm Sandy and Deepwater Horizon disasters while at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Scientists say the paucity of data also could hamstring efforts to prepare for and mitigate damage from future violent weather events that climatologists predict will happen with increasing frequency.

'NOTHING SHORT OF CATASTROPHIC' When it meets moisture, hydrogen chloride gas becomes hydrochloric acid, which can burn, suffocate and kill. Between lulls in Harvey's pounding torrents on Aug. 28, an 18-inch pipeline leak at Williams Midstream Services Inc. unleashed a plume of the chemical near the intersection of two major highways in La Porte, southeast of Houston, where the San Jacinto River meets the 50-mile ship channel. It's the petrochemical corridor's main artery that empties into Galveston Bay. A toxic cloud spread about a quarter-mile in an industrial sector as firefighters and police rushed to shut down roads, blared neighborhood sirens and robo-dispatched phone and text messages warning people to stay indoors. Two hours ticked by before a county hazardous materials response unit — lucky to find a road not under water — arrived and ended the danger with the help of a crew from a nearby plant.

The spill was among dozens barely noticed at the time, records show. A county pollution control inspector, Johnathan Martin, wrote in his report that he could not safely monitor the toxic plume but believed it did not reach homes less than a mile away. There were no reports of injuries. On land, the deluge — five feet of rain in some spots — appears to have scoured the top soil, according to separate testing efforts by scientists from Texas A&M and Rice universities. The Texas A&M collection of 24 samples — taken in September from lawns mainly in a neighborhood near Valero Energy Corp.'s refinery — turned up only low traces of petroleum and petrochemical-related compounds. "As expected the rains washed most things out," said Texas A&M research leader Anthony Knap. Rice researchers tested soil at a school and park in Baytown, east across Upper Galveston Bay, where residents said floodwaters rushed in from the 3,400-acre ExxonMobil refinery and chemical plant. They also sampled in Galena Park, a community of 11,000 hemmed in by heavy industry along the ship channel, just east of downtown. Only one of the nine samples collected by Rice researchers showed elevated levels of petroleumrelated toxins, according to an independent chemical analysis funded by the AP-Chronicle collaboration. Collected in Galena Park, it showed the presence of benzo(a)pyrene, a known carcinogen, at levels just above what the EPA deems a cancer risk. Jessica Chastain lives a block away. During Harvey's three-day downpour, the nearby Panther Creek swallowed Chastain's home, forcing the 36-year-old mother and four of her children to swim across the street to the safety of

her parents' two-story house, through slimy brownish-black water that smelled like a "rotten sewer," said Chastain. "It had a coat of film over it. I'm not sure what it was. It was probably oil." Her children — 15, 11, 9 and 6 — all developed skin infections and strep throat, she said. Her youngest still "cries when it rains hard," she said. "'Is it going to flood?' he asks." The creek, which empties into the nearby ship channel, had backed up from flooded chemical plants and tank farms. A number of Harvey-related spills occurred near Chastain's home, including the 460,000-gallon gasoline spill at a Magellan Midstream Partners tank farm and nearly 52,000 pounds of crude oil from a Seaway Crude Pipeline Inc. tank. Samples taken in October at a Houston park upstream of the ship channel showed elevated levels of dioxins, PCBs and hazardous chemicals typically created in the burning of oil, coal and gas, said Jennifer Horney, an A&M epidemiology professor who conducted testing for the city. Benzo(a)pyrene was among the chemicals found in sediment on the banks of Brays Bayou at the park, a popular recreation site with baseball diamonds, soccer pitches and bicycle pathways. "It's coal tar and it's a known carcinogen and mostly you find it in industrial settings," said Horney. "We know the ship channel — or the bayou — was (up) in that park." While worrisome, the levels at the park were not high enough to trigger a cleanup under EPA standards, she said. Neither Houston nor Texas A&M officials have publicly released those test results, which the city health department's chief environmental science officer, Loren Raun, said showed "nothing of concern for human health risk."

The surface soil scrubbing that scientists believe occurred during Harvey means contaminants likely migrated downstream, said Hanadi Rifai. The head of the University of Houston's environmental engineering program, she has been studying pollution in the watershed for more than two decades. "That soil ended up somewhere," Rifai said. "The net result on Galveston Bay is going to be nothing short of catastrophic."

VAPOR CLOUD Residents of the tidy, mostly Latino neighborhood off Old Industrial Road in Galena Park are accustomed to the foul odors that wind shifts can bring. But no one told them about the gasoline spill at the Magellan terminal a mile away — one of more than a dozen Harvey-related releases in a two-mile radius. The release was initially reported to the Coast Guard at 42,000 gallons — and residents would only learn of it a week later through news reports. Not until 11 days after the spill did Magellan report that it was actually more than 10 times bigger. Asked about the discrepancy, Magellan spokesman Bruce Heine said floodwaters prevented the company from accessing the ruptured tanks until Sept. 5. He said the company later removed 15 dump trucks of tainted soil. The spill was reported to the Coast Guard on Thursday, Aug. 31 at 11:35 p.m. — six days after Harvey made landfall. An explosion risk prompted workers to evacuate upwind as the nearly half-million gallons of gasoline gushed out failed storage tanks, state environmental and Coast Guard records show. The spill ranked as Texas' largest reported Harvey-related venting of air pollutants, at 1,143 tons.

The local fire department put down foam to suppress the fumes, records revealed, and a police report described "a vapor cloud." Claudia Mendez, a 42-year-old housewife, said she later saw foam by the side of the road and wondered about its origin. The fumes were so strong, Mendez said, "I thought my husband had brought the lawnmower gas can inside." Magellan has been cited for 11 environmental violations since 2002 by Texas regulators and fined more than $190,000, more than half in August 2012 for a single violation of air quality standards. Its spill is among at least three post-Harvey releases about which Harris County officials have withheld information, saying they remain under investigation. The second involves W&P Development Corp., owner of an industrial park where about 100,000 gallons of oily wastewater were reported to have spilled into the San Jacinto from Aug. 29 to Aug. 31. The site was formerly Champion Paper Mill and a landfill there received wastes including turpentine- and lead-contaminated soil and mercury until 2008. For most of 2015 and 2016, the property was in violation of federal anti-pollution laws, EPA records show. A spokesman for W&P Development, Dennis Winkler, said the company later determined that a smaller amount â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 30,000 gallons â&#x20AC;&#x201D; had escaped from a water treatment plant when the river overtopped a berm. The third site is Channel Biorefinery & Terminals, where some 80,000 gallons of methanol spilled from a tank rupture into Greens Bayou, which enters the ship channel just downstream of

the Magellan terminal. Highly flammable and explosive, methanol can cause brain lesions and other disorders. The property, once the site of the nation's largest biofuels refinery, was in violation of federal hazardous waste-management rules the first half of 2017. Texas cited the property's owners for failing to prove they could manage licensed wastes, including oily sludge and petroleum distillates, records show. Dennis Frost, the on-site manager for Gulf Coast Energy, the tenant of Channel Biorefinery, said he and co-workers did their best to prevent the spills. "They were impossible to contain," he said. "The water here down by our facility was up over 20 feet."

INDUSTRY: NO DANGER Companies are required under federal law to report spills to the state and federal government but not to counties, which are the first line of defense against industrial pollution. Harris County pollution control investigators queried more than 150 plants on Harvey-related spills, but many did not provide estimates. "Spill information is provided as a courtesy," said Latrice Babin, deputy director of the county's pollution control office. "Likewise, there is no requirement of notification of evacuation." The largest spill, by far, was at ExxonMobil Corp.'s Olefins Plant in Baytown, east of the ship channel. Two days after Harvey hit, some 457 million gallons of stormwater mixed with untreated wastewater, including oil and grease, surged into an adjacent creek.

The spill was not reported to the public. In a water quality report filed with the county and obtained through an open records request, ExxonMobil said "available information does not indicate any potential danger to human health or safety or the environment." It did not include results of third-party water testing that the company said had been done. The plant has a history of federal air pollution violations and reported emitting 228 tons of airborne pollutants during Harvey. Other large spills found in official records include: — More than 3,000 pounds of benzene from Royal Dutch Shell PLC's Deer Park complex on the ship channel's south bank. Initially, the company reported a half ton of phenol, which can burn skin and be potentially fatal, was spilled. It later revised that downward to just two pounds. —About 34,000 pounds of sodium hydroxide, or lye, which can cause severe chemical burns, and unpermitted airborne emissions, including 28,000 pounds of benzene, from the Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. plant in Baytown, near where thousands of residents live along Cedar Bayou. A spokesman, Bryce Hallowell, said a containment pond kept about 38 percent of the lye from escaping the facility. — About 60,000 tons of what Dow Chemical Co. called "non-hazardous biosolids" at the company's plant in Deer Park. The company now says that roughly 50 tons of that consisted of biosolids and that the rest was "primarily" stormwater. Yvette Arellano of the advocacy group Texas Environmental Justice Advocacy Services surveyed the area by helicopter on Sept. 4. She reported seeing flooded tank farms, fluorescent liquid streaming from Exxon's outfalls, and refineries and chemical plants flaring gas intensely like giant candles.

"The entire skyscape looked like a birthday cake," Arellano said.

"HOT SPOTS" As Harvey bore down on Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott's administration decreed that storm-related pollution would be forgiven as "acts of God." Days later, he suspended many environmental regulations. On Sept. 1, just as residents in some areas of Houston started dragging soggy belongings to the curb, the city experienced Texas' worst ozone pollution of the year. A top city health official emailed the EPA on Sept. 1 with a request marked "urgent," asking for help in determining whether spills and leaks at industrial and Superfund sites threatened the public. Three days later, after getting no response, she emailed again, records obtained in a public information act request show. "We are finding alarming levels of benzene in the neighborhood next to Valero . Should EPA evacuate the residents?" There was no record of an EPA email response, though the agency did send a mobile airmonitoring van on Sept. 5. By then, Houston had done its own air monitoring, recording a high benzene level of 324 parts per billion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more than three times the level at which federal worker safety guidelines recommend special breathing equipment. The city was aided by the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund, which dispatched a mobile van from California to track the toxic benzene plume.

On Sept. 7, state investigators took air samples near Valero and reported suffering headaches and dizziness, though they said they found pollutants "below levels of short-term health and/or welfare concern," according to a state report. The EPA said it also conducted 28 flights over 12 days beginning Aug. 31 using a plane equipped to evaluate "unreported or undetected" chemical releases. It flew over nearly 700 industrial sites, municipal wastewater treatment plants and other facilities, and EPA said it found no pollution exceeding state-permitted levels. In at least seven "status reports" the EPA and TCEQ posted online from Sept. 3 and Oct. 6, they said all measurements "were well below levels of health concern." Coleman, who retired in January after 29 years with EPA, said he was comfortable with the advisories, saying they were general assessments. "Were there hotspots? Absolutely," he said in a recent interview. "But on any given day, within some isolated area, there could be a problem." AP and Chronicle reporters asked the EPA and state regulators for a detailed accounting of any soil and water testing they did after Harvey, along with any investigations or sanctions. The responses mostly cited online bulletins, in which the EPA said it had assessed all 43 Superfund cleanup sites in the hurricane-affected area and cleared all but one â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the San Jacinto River Waste Pits, which was leaking dioxins. An examination of the 17 state Superfund sites found "no major issues," regulators said. State officials said they didn't test any sediment that may have been deposited elsewhere by floodwaters. The EPA tested water at an unspecified number of industrial sites but did not disclose results.

Without elaborating, the state said it had a number of open investigations. The EPA refused to discuss whom it might be investigating, beyond Valero and Arkema. With a few exceptions, companies with spills did not call local emergency responders, meaning the public was not informed in real time. Instead, the companies handled the spills in-house, the Chronicle and AP found in surveying local and county fire officials. The Harris County Sheriff's Office, which handles countywide emergency response and routinely dispatches a special investigator to major spills, said it was not alerted to 22 of 23 spills that reporters asked about, based on size and potential toxicity. The Arkema plant was the exception. Impossible to go unnoticed, its containers of liquid organic peroxides exploded after floodwaters disabled backup generators. Sickened first responders have filed suit, as have Harris and Liberty counties, which claim the company violated numerous environmental and safety regulations. Bob Royall, emergency operations chief for the county's Fire Marshal office, said his agency was alerted to Arkema and the Williams' hydrochloric acid leak but no one informed it at the time of the nearly half-million-gallon Magellan spill. Like spills on land, unpermitted releases of air toxins are self-reported in Texas â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a state that has long been friendly to heavy industry. As attorney general, prior to being elected governor, Abbott had sued the federal government more than a dozen times to challenge environmental regulations that he deemed over-reaching. The governor's Harvey disaster declaration suspended environmental reporting and recordkeeping rules as well as liability for unauthorized emissions for the duration of the disaster declaration, which was most recently renewed on March 16. A spokesman for the state

environmental agency said the suspensions only apply when rules would hinder disaster response. An attorney for the nonprofit Austin-based Environmental Integrity Project said that while federal environmental laws remained in effect, the governor's action essentially put state regulators on the sidelines and made it more difficult to hold polluters accountable. "The state tied its own hands before it knew the scope or the magnitude or any of the effects of the storm," said attorney Ilan Levin. The TCEQ itself has a long track record of industry tolerance. State auditors in 2003 found it was late in ordering and collecting fines, giving polluters $25 million a year in discounts. A study by Levin's group found the agency penalized only 3 percent of air pollution incidents reported by all companies statewide from 2011 to 2016. Two Texas laws enacted since mid-2015 have weakened counties' ability to police polluters. The first caps at $2.15 million what they can collect from polluters in lawsuits. The rest must go to the state. The second law took effect Sept. 1. It obliges counties to give the state right of first refusal on any pollution enforcement cases, which local officials say could mean less punitive action. "Every time we've been able to make something â&#x20AC;&#x201D; you get a large judgment against one of these companies, get some significant process-changing injunctive relief â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they come back around behind us to the legislature," said Owens. "And they have clipped our wings." https://tylerpaper.com/news/business/hurricane-harvey-s-toxic-impact-deeper-than-publictold/article_98e4a1dc-2dfb-11e8-abbd-232058ce45b7.html

FG targets 17 million rice farmers this year Published March 23, 2018

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Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed

Okechukwu Nnodim, Abuja The number of rice farmers in Nigeria is currently being increased by five million people in order to enhance rice cultivation across the country, the Federal Government has announced. It said although rice farmers in Nigeria increased from five million to 12 million in the past two years, it was important to attract more people into the business so as to attain sufficiency in rice production. The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, who disclosed this during a tour of some rice farms, stated that the government had commenced the cultivation of rice on additional 200,000 hectares of land in different states across the country. He stated that 25 farmers would cultivate the crop on each hectare, adding that a total of five million farmers would be needed to work on the 200,000 hectares of farmland.

Mohammed further explained that the initiative had commenced in Kano, where 31,000 farmers had been engaged by the Central Bank of Nigeria through the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme. He said, ―We‘ve grown the number of rice farmers from five million two years ago to over 12 million today. And there is a pilot scheme going on this season again with 200,000 hectares for the cultivation of rice. Now, each hectare employs 25 people; so that will have another five million people that will be added to the rice revolution. ―We want to make Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production and the fact that we are now growing the number of our farmers and we are reducing importation means that we are gradually getting to our target of self sufficiency in food production. ―The cultivation of rice on 200,000 hectares has been flagged off and right now, about 31,000 farmers are being empowered by the CBN under this initiative in Kano this season.‖ Mohammed stated that aside from Kebbi State, one of the most popular states involved the project, 31 other states were already planting rice in commercial quantity. ―There are 32 states producing rice in Nigeria and the same model is being used, which is the CBN Anchor Borrowers programme. This programme provides the farmers with seedlings, farm inputs, extension and advisory services, among others. And we can see the result of this programme,‖ he said.

The minister reiterated that Thailand had commenced moves to establish rice mills in Nigeria, encouraged by the increasing number of farmers and states involved in rice production in the country. He said the Federal Government had won its fight against rice importation, especially from Thailand, as Nigeria had reduced its importation of rice by over 90 per cent. ―As we speak today, Thailand rice growers are making passionate appeal to the Federal Government. What they are doing now is that they want to set up rice mills in Nigeria, which means we have won,‖ Mohammed stated. When asked again to explain why Thailand rice producers were pushing to set up mills in Nigeria, Mohammed said, ―Thailand wants to set up several rice mills in Nigeria because we have stopped importing from them.‖ He stated that Nigeria was able to cut down on the importation of rice from Thailand from 644,000 metric tonnes two years ago to a little over 20,000MT currently. Mohammed particularly lauded the Kebbi State Government as he noted that the state was pushing the country‘s rice revolution to greater heights. Speaking alongside the information minister, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Kebbi State, Mohammed Dandiga, said over 200,000

farmers were involved in the cultivation of rice across the 16 local government areas in the state. He said Kebbi had attained self-sufficiency in rice production and was already supplying the commodity in large quantity to other states of the federation. Dandiga noted that between December 2015 and March 2018, the volume of rice from Kebbi State has grown from 2.5 metric tonnes per hectare to 11 metric tonnes per hectare. He said, ―For us, this is something very important, considering the impact which it has on wealth creation for these farmers, particularly since the past two years. We are working hard to increase the participation of others who are interested in agriculture because we now have off-takers. ―Nigerian rice is now the preferred choice, unlike what it used to be in the past and this is because we now have standard rice mills in Kebbi and some other parts of the country.‖ The President, Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, Aminu Goronyo, recently stated that Nigerians consumed about 7.9 million tonnes of rice in 2017, with the country‘s local farmers producing 5.8 million tonnes last year. Out of this local production, Kebbi State accounted for about one million tonnes last year.

The state government recently stated that with greater investment, especially from the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme and better access to farm inputs, Kebbi planned to raise its rice production to 2.5 million metric tonnes in 2018. Rice is grown mainly in 16, out of the 21 local government areas in Kebbi State. In August 2017, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo inaugurated a N10bn rice mill in Argungu, Kebbi State, with a milling capacity of 500,000 tonnes. The Kebbi State Governor, Abubakar Bagudu, recently announced that the 200,000 farmers in his state were growing rice on over 400,000 hectares. He said, ―It is heart-warming for us to know that we are able to create wealth for rice farmers and that as a result of the production of rice in Kebbi, Nigeria has been able to reduce its importation of rice by over 90 per cent. ―This is good news and it shows that a lot of people not just in Kebbi State are now producing rice and very soon, we will start exporting the commodity. In Kebbi, there are farmers who are under the Central Bank of Nigeria Anchor Borrowers programme. ―We also have those who work for private companies. A large number of farmers numbering about 200,000 are into rice production in our state and they now cultivate on not less than 400,000 hectares of land across the state.‖

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Rice imports seen declining this year By BusinessMirror March 22, 2018

The report noted that the DA’s rice self-sufficiency programs are geared toward expanding and improving irrigation services, as well as increasing the use of quality planting seeds, including hybrids. The implementation of the tax-reform program in January, according to the report, would raise food and feed consumption starting this year, as cuts in personal-income taxes would hike disposable incomes. This would allow consumers to purchase more meat and wheat-based products. “[Also], continued economic growth has resulted in a growing middle class and shifts in food-consumption patterns. This is evident through the rapidly expanding food retail sector and fast-food industry,” the report read. “Philippine Statistics Authority [PSA] data show that from 2012 to 2016, per capita rice consumption has been decreasing in favor of wheat and protein. No significant change in rice consumption is expected through MY 18/19,” it added. FAS in Manila said wheat imports are expected to increase 550,000 MT to 5.75 MMT in MY 18/19, driven mainly by growing feed demand. “Also on feed demand, MY 18/19 corn imports are expected to increase 200,000 MT to 700,000 MT.” Citing industry estimates, overall feed production reached roughly 11.75 MMT in 2016, up 3 percent from 11.38 MMT in 2015. “The domestic livestock and poultry industries continue to be the bright spots of Philippine agriculture, primarily due to the performance of the hog and chicken industries. Next to rice [which accounts for over a fourth of total agricultural output], hog and chicken production are the top contributors to Philippine farm output, with shares of 14.8 and 12.0 percent, respectively,” the report read.

“Although there was an avian flu outbreak in August 2017, timely response by the Philippine DA arrested the spread and contained the damage of the disease. Poultry’s output grew 4.6 percent in 2017 compared to the previous year’s level, with chicken production gaining 4.3 percent. During the same period, the livestock sector gained 1.1 percent last year compared to the 2016 level, with hog production expanding 1.5 percent,” it added.

Rice imports seen declining this year By BusinessMirror March 22, 2018

percent last year compared to the 2016 level, with hog production expanding 1.5 percent,â&#x20AC;? it added. https://businessmirror.com.ph/rice-imports-seen-declining-this-year/

NFA to deliver 250,000 MT of imported rice to boost govâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stockpile

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Share it! Updated March 22, 2018, 6:51 PM

By Genalyn Kabiling At least 250,000 metric tons of imported rice would delivered to the country this May to boost the government stockpile, a Palace official announced Thursday.

(Credits: Juan Carlo De Vela|Manila Bulletin)

The arrival of the fresh stocks came after National Food Authority (NFA) Council authorized the importation of rice through an open tender scheme with the private sector. The rice importation was among the agreements reached during a meeting convened by the President Duterte with the NFA Council, other food agency officials, and economic mangers in Malacañang last Monday. ―Even with a very sufficient supply of rice for the entire country to date, the NFA Management is directed to start the procurement process of the approved standby authority to import 250,000 metric tons to increase the currently NFA rice inventory or buffer stock,‖ Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr. said in a statement read by his Assistant Secretary Jonas Soriano in a Palace press briefing. ―The said rice import is set to arrive May of this year. This is to allow the NFA to have enough buffer stock for the upcoming lean months of the year, in which rice harvest is at its lowest,‖ said Evasco, head of the NFA Council. Evasco said the mode of procurement of the 250,000 metric tons would be government-to-private Importation or open tender scheme. The terms of reference will be the same as in the previous government-to-private Procurement last year, he added.

―We would like to assure the public that the NFA Council is keen on ensuring continued supply of affordable rice for Filipino people while working hand in hand with other departments to ensure that the interest of the Filipino farmers and their families as part of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte‘s commitment for a better Philippines and a comfortable life for the Filipinos,‖ he said. In the same Palace meeting, Evasco said the NFA Council has tasked the NFA management to work with the Department of Trade and Industry to identify and tag rice imports under the Minimum Access Volume to ensure its affordability to the consumers. ―It was also agreed that DTI shall step up and intensify price monitoring to ensure unwarranted increases and or price manipulation in rice prices,‖ he said. The NFA Council has also directed the NFA management to increase domestic buying of palay especially during the early days of the harvest months, according to Evasco. The NFA should carry out ―creative strategies in the form incentives or sweeteners‖ for farmers to sell their products to the agency, Evasco said. ―The main thrust is to buy locally first prior to considering importation. We protect our farmers first,‖ he added. He said the NFA must also aggressively implement measures to reduce the production cost of rice such as mechanization, investment that will increase yield of rice, among others. The Council also called for amendments to Republic Act No. 8178, otherwise known as the Agricultural Tariffication Act of 1996 to protect rice farmers from the lifting of qualitative restrictions on rice imports. ―The bill seeks to prescribe tariff rates for rice importation, strengthen the rice sector to meet the head on challenges of import threats and keep the Philippine food secure and provide funds to be allocated to the rice sector based on a rice industry roadmap,‖ Evasco said.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/03/22/nfa-to-deliver-250000-mt-of-imported-rice-to-boost-govtstockpile/

Zim spends $80m on rice importation 23 MAR, 2018 - 00:03

1 COMMENT 1 IMAGES

Livingstone Marufu Business Reporter ZIMBABWE expects to start commercial rice production in the next season or two as the country moves to cut annual rice importation expenditure of over $80 million, a senior Government official has said.

Lands, Agriculture, Rural Resettlement Minister Perence Shiri said it is high ti me the country should start growing rice to save foreign currency.

―Zimbabwe is a net importer of rice and spends about $80 million annually to import the cereal.

A team of experts from his ministry have already gone to Egypt to familiarise with rice production in one of Africa‘s largest producer.

Preliminary research has shown that the country can produce rice using hybrid varieties without any problem.

New rice varieties need a lot of water in the first two months and the country has sufficient water to support rice production.

Seed Co has successfully tested their seed rice in Pakistan and other countries and the biggest trial is to ensure whether those seeds will successfully grow well or not locally.

Seed Co has started growing rice at its research station and soon could avail seeds to many farmers.

Another local firm Life Brand Agriculture Services is planning to put 10 000 hectares of rice in Masvingo — a project set to showcase Tokwe-Mukosi Dam‘s humongous impact on farming.

Life Brand wants to produce over 300tonnes of rice domestically and establishing foreign markets like the Middle East.

It has three good varieties of rice; the first was sourced from Malawi and the other two from China.

Rice has become a priority crop in Africa with many countries looking at expanding production of the crop to achieve food self-sufficiency. https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-spends-80m-on-rice-importation/

Prices of rice dip in Asia as demand eases for India variety, Vietnam harvests peak By Reuters March 23, 2018 | 09:18 am GMT+7

A farmer works on a rice paddy field in Quang Ngai province, Vietnam March 14, 2018. Photo by Reuters

Demand from African and Asian buyers remained weak, even at the lower price. Rice export prices slipped this week across most Asian hubs, with easing demand weighing on rates in India, and a peaking harvest hurting Vietnamese rates, although inquiries from Bangladesh could trigger fresh activity.

In India, rates of the 5 percent broken parboiled variety eased by $3 per ton to $419-$423 per ton, although lower supplies limited the downside. Demand from African and Asian buyers remained weak, even at the lower price, said an exporter based in Kakinada in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. ―Bangladesh buying has also been falling in the past few weeks.‖ However, a food ministry official in neighboring Bangladesh, which has emerged as a major rice importer since 2017 after floods damaged its crops, said traders in the country are looking to buy more rice from international markets, mostly from India, given the high rates prevailing in domestic markets. ―Rice prices in Bangladesh are still higher compared to the neighboring countries. Even after hefty imports, traders are still looking to buy rice from international markets, mainly from India,‖ the official said. Prices edged lower in Vietnam as well, with the benchmark five-percent broken rice rates slipping to $405-$415 a ton from $410-$415 a week earlier, as the harvest peaked, traders said. Traders also said that Vietnam is likely to work on new government-togovernment deals with Indonesia and Malaysia, without giving further details. Meanwhile, in Thailand, the world’s second-biggest rice exporter, benchmark 5 percent broken rice rates inched slightly lower to about $430-432 a ton, free on board (FOB) Bangkok, versus $432-$435 last week. Local prices were buoyed by new orders from China and Indonesia this week, but a slight depreciation of the Thai baht, with the domestic currency having fallen about 0.3 percent thus far this week, meant weaker dollar prices, traders said. ―The baht weakened but China and Indonesia are still buying, keeping prices up,‖ a trader in Bangkok said.

Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main rice crop output in 2018/19 was estimated to rise more than seven percent to 25.81 million tons, the government said on Tuesday. The current 2017/18 off-season crop is also estimated to come in at 8.16 million tons, 180,000 tons more than an earlier forecast in December due to heavy rainfall. https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/markets/prices-of-rice-dip-in-asia-as-demand-eases-for-indiavariety-vietnam-harvests-peak-3726750.htmlhttps://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/markets/prices-ofrice-dip-in-asia-as-demand-eases-for-india-variety-vietnam-harvests-peak-3726750.html

Government on track to converting rice QR into tariffs by June By Cai Ordinario March 22, 2018

Hurricane Harvey's toxic impact deeper than public told Frank Bajak Of The Associated Press and Lise Olsen Of The Houston Chronicle, Associated Press and Houston Chronicle

Updated 4:26 pm, Friday, March 23, 2018 



Hurricane Harvey's toxic impact on Houston was more widespread than publicly reported, an AP-Houston Chronicle investigation has found. In the more than 100 spills catalogued by reporters, environmental testing was limited. (March 22) Media: Associated Press

HOUSTON (AP) — A toxic onslaught from the nation's petrochemical hub was largely overshadowed by the record-shattering deluge of Hurricane Harvey as residents and first responders struggled to save lives and property. More than a half-year after floodwaters swamped America's fourth-largest city, the extent of this environmental assault is beginning to surface, while questions about the long-term consequences for human health remain unanswered. County, state and federal records pieced together by The Associated Press and The Houston Chronicle reveal a far more widespread toxic impact than authorities publicly reported after the storm slammed into the Texas coast in late August and then stalled over the Houston area.

ď&#x201A;ˇ Photo: Elizabeth Conley, AP

IMAGE 1 OF 18 In this Jan. 24, 2018 photo, Galena Park is hemmed in by heavy industry just east of downtown Houston along the ship channel. (Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via AP)

Some 500 chemical plants, 10 refineries and more than 6,670 miles of intertwined oil, gas and chemical pipelines line the nation's largest energy corridor. Nearly half a billion gallons of industrial wastewater mixed with storm water surged out of just one chemical plant in Baytown, east of Houston on the upper shores of Galveston Bay. Benzene, vinyl chloride, butadiene and other known human carcinogens were among the dozens of tons of industrial toxic substances released into surrounding neighborhoods and waterways following Harvey's torrential rains. In all, reporters catalogued more than 100 Harvey-related toxic releases â&#x20AC;&#x201D; on land, in water and in the air. Most were never publicized, and in the case of two of the biggest ones, the extent or potential toxicity of the releases was initially understated. Only a handful of the industrial spills have been investigated by federal regulators, reporters found. Texas regulators say they have investigated 89 incidents, but have yet to announce any enforcement actions. Testing by state and federal regulators of soil and water for contaminants was largely limited to Superfund toxic waste sites. Based on widespread air monitoring, including flyovers, officials repeatedly assured the public that post-Harvey air pollution posed no health threat. But the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency official in charge now says these general assessments did not necessarily reflect local "hotspots" with potential risk to people. Regulators alerted the public to dangers from just two, well-publicized toxic disasters: the Arkema chemical plant northeast of Houston that exploded and burned for days, and a nearby dioxin-laden federal Superfund site whose protective cap was damaged by the raging San Jacinto River. Samuel Coleman, who was the EPA's acting regional administrator during Harvey, said the priority in the immediate aftermath was "addressing any environmental harms as quickly as possible as opposed to making announcements about what the problem was."

In hindsight, he said, it might not have been a bad idea to inform the public about the worst of "dozens of spills." Local officials say the state's industry-friendly approach has weakened efforts by the city of Houston and surrounding Harris County to build cases against and force cleanup by the companies, many of them repeat environmental offenders. "The public will probably never know the extent of what happened to the environment after Harvey. But the individual companies of course know," said Rock Owens, supervising environmental attorney for Harris County, home to Houston and 4.7 million residents. The chairman of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Bryan Shaw, declined when asked by lawmakers in January to identify the worst spills and their locations. He told a legislative subcommittee hearing he could not publicly discuss spills until his staff completed a review. The amount of post-Harvey government testing contrasts sharply with what happened after two other major Gulf Coast hurricanes. After Hurricane Ike hit Texas in 2008, state regulators collected 85 sediment samples to measure the contamination; more than a dozen violations were identified and cleanups were carried out, according to a state review. In Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina's floodwaters ravaged New Orleans in 2005, the EPA and Louisiana officials examined about 1,800 soil samples over 10 months, EPA records showed. "Now the response is completely different," said Scott Frickel, an environmental sociologist formerly at Tulane University in New Orleans. Frickel, now at Brown University, called the Harvey response "unconscionable" given Houston's exponentially larger industrial footprint. Reporters covered some environmental crises as they happened, such as AP's exclusive on the flooding of toxic waste sites and the Chronicle's Arkema warnings before fires broke out. But the sheer quantity of spills was impossible to document in real time.

Academic researchers are now trying to fill in the gaps in environmental monitoring, helped by grants from the National Science Foundation and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. One project, a Harvey-related public health registry for Houston, was funded just this month but is not yet underway. "People are left in a state of limbo of not knowing if they were exposed or not — or if they were, what the implications are for their health," said Dr. Nicole Lurie, who oversaw federal public health responses to the Superstorm Sandy and Deepwater Horizon disasters while at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Scientists say the paucity of data also could hamstring efforts to prepare for and mitigate damage from future violent weather events that climatologists predict will happen with increasing frequency. ___ 'NOTHING SHORT OF CATASTROPHIC' When it meets moisture, hydrogen chloride gas becomes hydrochloric acid, which can burn, suffocate and kill. Between lulls in Harvey's pounding torrents on Aug. 28, an 18-inch pipeline leak at Williams Midstream Services Inc. unleashed a plume of the chemical near the intersection of two major highways in La Porte, southeast of Houston, where the San Jacinto River meets the 50-mile ship channel. It's the petrochemical corridor's main artery that empties into Galveston Bay. A toxic cloud spread about a quarter-mile in an industrial sector as firefighters and police rushed to shut down roads, blared neighborhood sirens and robo-dispatched phone and text messages warning people to stay indoors. Two hours ticked by before a county hazardous materials response unit — lucky to find a road not under water — arrived and ended the danger with the help of a crew from a nearby plant. The spill was among dozens barely noticed at the time, records show. A county pollution control inspector, Johnathan Martin, wrote in his report that he could not safely

monitor the toxic plume but believed it did not reach homes less than a mile away. There were no reports of injuries. On land, the deluge — five feet of rain in some spots — appears to have scoured the top soil, according to separate testing efforts by scientists from Texas A&M and Rice universities. The Texas A&M collection of 24 samples — taken in September from lawns mainly in a neighborhood near Valero Energy Corp.'s refinery — turned up only low traces of petroleum and petrochemical-related compounds. "As expected the rains washed most things out," said Texas A&M research leader Anthony Knap. Rice researchers tested soil at a school and park in Baytown, east across Upper Galveston Bay, where residents said floodwaters rushed in from the 3,400-acre ExxonMobil refinery and chemical plant. They also sampled in Galena Park, a community of 11,000 hemmed in by heavy industry along the ship channel, just east of downtown. Only one of the nine samples collected by Rice researchers showed elevated levels of petroleum-related toxic substances, according to an independent chemical analysis funded by the AP-Chronicle collaboration. Collected in Galena Park, it showed the presence of benzo(a)pyrene, a known carcinogen, at levels just above what the EPA deems a cancer risk. Jessica Chastain lives a block away. During Harvey's three-day downpour, the nearby Panther Creek swallowed Chastain's home, forcing the 36-year-old mother and four of her children to swim across the street to the safety of her parents' two-story house, through slimy brownish-black water that smelled like a "rotten sewer," said Chastain. "It had a coat of film over it. I'm not sure what it was. It was probably oil." Her children — 15, 11, 9 and 6 — all developed skin infections and strep throat, she said. Her youngest still "cries when it rains hard," she said. "'Is it going to flood?' he asks."

The creek, which empties into the nearby ship channel, had backed up from flooded chemical plants and tank farms. A number of Harvey-related spills occurred near Chastain's home, including the 460,000-gallon gasoline spill at a Magellan Midstream Partners tank farm and nearly 52,000 pounds of crude oil from a Seaway Crude Pipeline Inc. tank. Samples taken in October at a Houston park upstream of the ship channel showed elevated levels of dioxins, PCBs and hazardous chemicals typically created in the burning of oil, coal and gas, said Jennifer Horney, an A&M epidemiology professor who conducted testing for the city. Benzo(a)pyrene was among the chemicals found in sediment on the banks of Brays Bayou at the park, a popular recreation site with baseball diamonds, soccer pitches and bicycle pathways. "It's coal tar and it's a known carcinogen and mostly you find it in industrial settings," said Horney. "We know the ship channel â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or the bayou â&#x20AC;&#x201D; was (up) in that park." While worrisome, the levels at the park were not high enough to trigger a cleanup under EPA standards, she said. Neither Houston nor Texas A&M officials have publicly released those test results, which the city health department's chief environmental science officer, Loren Raun, said showed "nothing of concern for human health risk." The surface soil scrubbing that scientists believe occurred during Harvey means contaminants likely migrated downstream, said Hanadi Rifai. The head of the University of Houston's environmental engineering program, she has been studying pollution in the watershed for more than two decades. "That soil ended up somewhere," Rifai said. "The net result on Galveston Bay is going to be nothing short of catastrophic." _ VAPOR CLOUD Residents of the tidy, mostly Latino neighborhood off Old Industrial Road in Galena Park are accustomed to the foul odors that wind shifts can bring.

But no one told them about the gasoline spill at the Magellan terminal a mile away â&#x20AC;&#x201D; one of more than a dozen Harvey-related releases in a two-mile radius. The release was initially reported to the Coast Guard at 42,000 gallons â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and residents would only learn of it a week later through news reports. Not until 11 days after the spill did Magellan report that it was actually more than 10 times bigger. Asked about the discrepancy, Magellan spokesman Bruce Heine said floodwaters prevented the company from accessing the ruptured tanks until Sept. 5. He said the company later removed 15 dump trucks of tainted soil. The spill was reported to the Coast Guard on Thursday, Aug. 31 at 11:35 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; six days after Harvey made landfall. An explosion risk prompted workers to evacuate upwind as the nearly half-million gallons of gasoline gushed out failed storage tanks, state environmental and Coast Guard records show. The spill ranked as Texas' largest reported Harvey-related venting of air pollutants, at 1,143 tons. The local fire department put down foam to suppress the fumes, records revealed, and a police report described "a vapor cloud." Claudia Mendez, a 42-year-old housewife, said she later saw foam by the side of the road and wondered about its origin. The fumes were so strong, Mendez said, "I thought my husband had brought the lawnmower gas can inside." Magellan has been cited for 11 environmental violations since 2002 by Texas regulators and fined more than $190,000, more than half in August 2012 for a single violation of air quality standards. Its spill is among at least three post-Harvey releases about which Harris County officials have withheld information, saying they remain under investigation. The second involves W&P Development Corp., owner of an industrial park where about 100,000 gallons of oily wastewater were reported to have spilled into the San Jacinto from Aug. 29 to Aug. 31. The site was formerly Champion Paper Mill and a landfill there received wastes including turpentine- and lead-contaminated soil and mercury until

2008. For most of 2015 and 2016, the property was in violation of federal anti-pollution laws, EPA records show. A spokesman for W&P Development, Dennis Winkler, said the company later determined that a smaller amount â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 30,000 gallons â&#x20AC;&#x201D; had escaped from a water treatment plant when the river overtopped a berm. The third site is Channel Biorefinery & Terminals, where some 80,000 gallons of methanol spilled from a tank rupture into Greens Bayou, which enters the ship channel just downstream of the Magellan terminal. Highly flammable and explosive, methanol can cause brain lesions and other disorders. The property, once the site of the nation's largest biofuels refinery, was in violation of federal hazardous waste-management rules the first half of 2017. Texas cited the property's owners for failing to prove they could manage licensed wastes, including oily sludge and petroleum distillates, records show. Dennis Frost, the on-site manager for Gulf Coast Energy, the tenant of Channel Biorefinery, said he and co-workers did their best to prevent the spills. "They were impossible to contain," he said. "The water here down by our facility was up over 20 feet." ___ INDUSTRY: NO DANGER Companies are required under federal law to report spills to the state and federal government but not to counties, which are the first line of defense against industrial pollution. Harris County pollution control investigators queried more than 150 plants on Harveyrelated spills, but many did not provide estimates. "Spill information is provided as a courtesy," said Latrice Babin, deputy director of the county's pollution control office. "Likewise, there is no requirement of notification of evacuation."

The largest spill, by far, was at ExxonMobil Corp.'s Olefins Plant in Baytown, east of the ship channel. Two days after Harvey hit, some 457 million gallons of stormwater mixed with untreated wastewater, including oil and grease, surged into an adjacent creek. The spill was not reported to the public. In a water quality report filed with the county and obtained through an open records request, ExxonMobil said "available information does not indicate any potential danger to human health or safety or the environment." It did not include results of third-party water testing that the company said had been done. The plant has a history of federal air pollution violations and reported emitting 228 tons of airborne pollutants during Harvey. Other large spills found in official records include: — More than 3,000 pounds of benzene from Royal Dutch Shell PLC's Deer Park complex on the ship channel's south bank. Initially, the company reported a half ton of phenol, which can burn skin and be potentially fatal, was spilled. It later revised that downward to just two pounds. —About 34,000 pounds of sodium hydroxide, or lye, which can cause severe chemical burns, and unpermitted airborne emissions, including 28,000 pounds of benzene, from the Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. plant in Baytown, near where thousands of residents live along Cedar Bayou. A spokesman, Bryce Hallowell, said a containment pond kept about 38 percent of the lye from escaping the facility. — About 60,000 tons of what Dow Chemical Co. called "non-hazardous biosolids" at the company's plant in Deer Park. The company now says that roughly 50 tons of that consisted of biosolids and that the rest was "primarily" stormwater. Yvette Arellano of the advocacy group Texas Environmental Justice Advocacy Services surveyed the area by helicopter on Sept. 4. She reported seeing flooded tank farms, fluorescent liquid streaming from Exxon's outfalls, and refineries and chemical plants flaring gas intensely like giant candles. "The entire skyscape looked like a birthday cake," Arellano said. ___ "HOT SPOTS"

As Harvey bore down on Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott's administration decreed that stormrelated pollution would be forgiven as "acts of God." Days later, he suspended many environmental regulations. On Sept. 1, just as residents in some areas of Houston started dragging soggy belongings to the curb, the city experienced Texas' worst ozone pollution of the year. A top city health official emailed the EPA on Sept. 1 with a request marked "urgent," asking for help in determining whether spills and leaks at industrial and Superfund sites threatened the public. Three days later, after getting no response, she emailed again, records obtained in a public information act request show. "We are finding alarming levels of benzene in the neighborhood next to Valero . Should EPA evacuate the residents?" There was no record of an EPA email response, though the agency did send a mobile airmonitoring van on Sept. 5. By then, Houston had done its own air monitoring, recording a high benzene level of 324 parts per billion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more than three times the level at which federal worker safety guidelines recommend special breathing equipment. The city was aided by the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund, which dispatched a mobile van from California to track the toxic benzene plume. On Sept. 7, state investigators took air samples near Valero and reported suffering headaches and dizziness, though they said they found pollutants "below levels of shortterm health and/or welfare concern," according to a state report. The EPA said it also conducted 28 flights over 12 days beginning Aug. 31 using a plane equipped to evaluate "unreported or undetected" chemical releases. It flew over nearly 700 industrial sites, municipal wastewater treatment plants and other facilities, and EPA said it found no pollution exceeding state-permitted levels. In at least seven "status reports" the EPA and TCEQ posted online from Sept. 3 and Oct. 6, they said all measurements "were well below levels of health concern." Coleman, who retired in January after 29 years with EPA, said he was comfortable with the advisories, saying they were general assessments. "Were there hotspots?

Absolutely," he said in a recent interview. "But on any given day, within some isolated area, there could be a problem." AP and Chronicle reporters asked the EPA and state regulators for a detailed accounting of any soil and water testing they did after Harvey, along with any investigations or sanctions. The responses mostly cited online bulletins, in which the EPA said it had assessed all 43 Superfund cleanup sites in the hurricane-affected area and cleared all but one â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the San Jacinto River Waste Pits, which was leaking dioxins. An examination of the 17 state Superfund sites found "no major issues," regulators said. State officials said they didn't test any sediment that may have been deposited elsewhere by floodwaters. The EPA tested water at an unspecified number of industrial sites but did not disclose results. Without elaborating, the state said it had a number of open investigations. The EPA refused to discuss whom it might be investigating, beyond Valero and Arkema. With a few exceptions, companies with spills did not call local emergency responders, meaning the public was not informed in real time. Instead, the companies handled the spills in-house, the Chronicle and AP found in surveying local and county fire officials. The Harris County Sheriff's Office, which handles countywide emergency response and routinely dispatches a special investigator to major spills, said it was not alerted to 22 of 23 spills that reporters asked about, based on size and potential toxicity. The Arkema plant was the exception. Impossible to go unnoticed, its containers of liquid organic peroxides exploded after floodwaters disabled backup generators. Sickened first responders have filed suit, as have Harris and Liberty counties, which claim the company violated numerous environmental and safety regulations. Bob Royall, emergency operations chief for the county's Fire Marshal office, said his agency was alerted to Arkema and the Williams' hydrochloric acid leak but no one informed it at the time of the nearly half-million-gallon Magellan spill. Like spills on land, unpermitted releases of toxic air substances are self-reported in Texas â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a state that has long been friendly to heavy industry. As attorney general, prior

to being elected governor, Abbott had sued the federal government more than a dozen times to challenge environmental regulations that he deemed over-reaching. The governor's Harvey disaster declaration suspended environmental reporting and record-keeping rules as well as liability for unauthorized emissions for the duration of the disaster declaration, which was most recently renewed on March 16. A spokesman for the state environmental agency said the suspensions only apply when rules would hinder disaster response. An attorney for the nonprofit Austin-based Environmental Integrity Project said that while federal environmental laws remained in effect, the governor's action essentially put state regulators on the sidelines and made it more difficult to hold polluters accountable. "The state tied its own hands before it knew the scope or the magnitude or any of the effects of the storm," said attorney Ilan Levin. The TCEQ itself has a long track record of industry tolerance. State auditors in 2003 found it was late in ordering and collecting fines, giving polluters $25 million a year in discounts. A study by Levin's group found the agency penalized only 3 percent of air pollution incidents reported by all companies statewide from 2011 to 2016. Two Texas laws enacted since mid-2015 have weakened counties' ability to police polluters. The first caps at $2.15 million what they can collect from polluters in lawsuits. The rest must go to the state. The second law took effect Sept. 1. It obliges counties to give the state right of first refusal on any pollution enforcement cases, which local officials say could mean less punitive action. "Every time we've been able to make something â&#x20AC;&#x201D; you get a large judgment against one of these companies, get some significant process-changing injunctive relief â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they come back around behind us to the legislature," said Owens. "And they have clipped our wings." ___ Associated Press reporter Justin Pritchard in Los Angeles and Houston Chronicle reporter Alex Stuckey contributed to this story. ___

For more AP coverage of Hurricane Harvey: https://apnews.com/tag/HurricaneHarvey ___ Contact Frank Bajak at fbajak@ap.org and http://twitter.com/fbajak , and Lise Olsen at Lise.olsen@chron.com and https://twitter.com/chrondigger

Pakistan to export 100 tons hybrid rice seeds for first time in April 21.03.2018

| UkrAgroConsult Pakistan is all set to export the first ever consignment of 100 tons heat-tolerant rice seeds to the Philippines next month, a senior industry official said – a shipment that is long-awaited since the country begun experimenting hybrid technology over a decade back. ―The first ever consignment of 100 tons high-yielding hybrid rice seed is expected to be exported to the Philippines in April, which will be sufficient to cultivate about 15,000 acres of land,‖ Shahzad Ali Malik, chief executive officer (CEO) of hybrid seed company Guard Agricultural Research and Services told journalists early this week. The success of Pakistani scientists in developing prime rice seed varieties was a result of partnership with Chinese researchers, led by Yuan Longping, in 2004 after development of hybrid seed breeding technique across the coastal belt of Sindh. The country was expecting to ship the maiden consignment of hybrid rice seeds last year, but it was delayed because officials said it takes a long process from harvesting and grading to regulatory procedures before such seed gets ready for the plantation. Malik said as the hybrid seed is produced in harsh weather of coastal belt it is suitable for plantation in changing climate of China and other Far Eastern countries of Asia, offering lucrative exports market. ―India can also take huge benefits from this seed technology.‖ Guard Agricultural Research‘s chief, while talking about climate change and its impact on agro-ecosystems, said the need to develop heat-tolerant and drought-resistant hybrid rice seed varieties becomes immensely important due to climate change. Production of premium quality seed by the private sector is a big achievement as public sector institutions or multinationals monopolise the seed development. Malik said his company also carried out hybrid rice trials for seed multiplication in South-Central districts of Punjab. ―The step would prove very beneficial in increasing area of hybrid rice in Punjab by offering low cost of production to growers,‖ he added. ―Consequently, production of hybrid rice varieties would lead to opening of more export avenues, a win-win situation for researchers, farmers and the economy.‖ Hybrid seed varieties, being cultivated in Sindh coastal belt, have a very healthy production capacity of seven to eight tons/hectare. One of the varieties has strong roots and stem systems, enhancing its endurance against high winds.

Chinese researchers are also helping their Pakistan counterparts to introduce super-hi hybrid variety of rice with 18 tons/hectare yield potential. Philippines, one of the world‘s biggest rice producers and importers, is facing invariable import supplies, keeping the country at the risk of food shortages. Introduction of hybrid seed on vast scale is seen as a solution to the problem. The south east Asian nation‘s rice crop season would start during the next month. It wants to increase area under hybrid rice cultivation to 30 percent. Only high-yielding hybrid rice varieties could help in tremendously increasing yields without increasing acreage, achieving vertical growth potential. In the recent years, even Thailand and some other major producers had to import rice to meet its demand mainly due to inconsistent performance of agriculture due to multiple factors.

http://www.blackseagrain.net/novosti/pakistan-to-export-100-tons-hybrid-rice-seeds-for-

Indonesia increases rice quota for Pakistan first-time-in-april

The Newspaper's Staff ReporterMarch 22, 2018

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ISLAMABAD: Indonesia has allocated a higher quota of rice imports from Pakistan under the preferential trade agreement.

As per agreement, eight Pakistani rice exporters got orders for 6,250 tonnes each, totalling 50,000 tonnes after the bidding process.

An official statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce said that this single transaction will be worth around $22.5m. It is expected that after the notification of an additional 20 tariff lines, which include Pakistan‘s top export potential by the Indonesian authorities, exporters of these products will benefit from it.

The notification of the 20 tariff lines will be issued by the Indonesian authorities after completing official formalities.

Meanwhile, kinno exports have already increased due to longer available time limit for exports allowed by the Indonesian authorities this year.

The PTA, signed in February 2012 and operationalised in September 2013 will bring more opportunities for the Pakistani exporters, helping reduce trade deficit between the two countries. After bilateral negotiations, the Commerce Division was successful in getting greater market access to Indonesian market.

The negotiations to get unilateral market access on 20 high priority tariff lines and increased access for Pakistan‘s agricultural products were initiated in 2017.

These culminated during the visit of the Indonesian President Joko Widodo on January 26-27.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1396825/indonesia-increases-rice-quota-for-pakistan

Indonesia buys about 50,000 T rice in tender        

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HAMBURG: Indonesian state food procurement agency Bulog bought about 50,000 tonnes rice in an international tender, European traders said on Wednesday.

The rice in the purchase is expected to be sourced from Pakistan, they said.

The purchase included 12,500 tonnes of white rice of 5 percent broken grade all bought at $460 a tonne c&f.

Another 37,500 tonnes of white rice of 15 percent broken grade was all purchased at $450 a tonne c&f.

The purchase was divided among eight trading houses, all receiving the same tonnage allocation.

Latest shipment period is May 31 and all the rice will be shipped in containers.

Bulog said on Tuesday it was continuing with plans to import a total 500,000 tonnes of rice up to the end of June to improve local supplies and cool domestic prices. https://www.brecorder.com/2018/03/21/406482/indonesia-buys-about-50000-t-rice-in-tender/

ice Whiskey Makes A Small Niche For Itself In United States

AMERICAN LIFESTYLE By Katelyn Best / March 22, 2018

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Although spirits made from rice have been common in East and Southeast Asia for thousands of years, in the world of whiskey, rice is still a little-used ingredient. There are, though, a handful of distilleries in the United States producing whiskey from the world‘s most widely-eaten staple crop.

What‘s intriguing about these spirits is the varying angles of approach distillers have taken towards rice-based whiskey. Atelier Vie‘s Riz Whiskey, made in New Orleans, is an unaged American whiskey, although an aged version is in the works. Portland‘s Vinn Distillery, meanwhile, uses a traditional recipe brought over to the States from southeast Asia. At Atelier Vie, the impetus for trying a rice whiskey was geographic: Louisiana is a major producer of the grain. When owner and distiller Jedd Haas started looking into the question of whether other American distillers were making spirits from rice, he found that the existing products seemed to all be made with an Asian-style fermentation (more on that in a minute). ―So my thought,‖ he says, ―was to take Louisiana rice—which I get from a place called Falcon Rice Mill in Crowley—distill it whiskey-style, and make some whiskey out of it.‖

Louisiana rice from the Falcon Rice Mill (image via Falcon Rice Mill)

For the most part, Haasâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s process looks a lot like the ones used by other American whiskey distillers: the rice mash is cooked, enzymes are added for liquefaction and saccharification, and yeastâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a malt whiskey strain, in this caseâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is added to begin the fermentation process. The fermentation period is fairly long, typically two or three weeks. From there, it goes into the still on the grain, and Haas distills it twice.

So far, Riz has mostly been available in unaged form, with the exception of a limited-edition bottling that was aged 13 months. The most recent batch, however, is currently all aging in a mix of used bourbon and malt whiskey barrels, and Haas plans to do the same with future runs.

As to what Riz actually tastes like, Haas says the influence of both the rice and the whiskey-like distillation process are in evidence. According to one reviewer, the unaged version has notes of chocolate, mint, and black licorice. Stay tuned for the barrel-aged version—currently, Riz is available in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi. As Haas found, though, there are also several American distilleries making rice whiskey using a process closer to how grain spirits are made in China and Southeast Asia.

Vinn distillery and the baijiu way China‘s staple liquor is baijiu, a clear spirit often made from sorghum. Like vodka, though, baijiu can be made from literally any fermentable foodstuff, and in southern China and Southeast Asia, it‘s often made with rice. That‘s how the Ly family—the owners of Vinn Distillery in Portland, Oregon—have been making baijiu for six generations. ―[Distilling] is a common thing‖ in Vietnam, Michelle Ly told me when I visited the distillery. ―What they do with the baijiu is use it to honor ancestors—pray with it, celebrate with it, mourn with it, cook with it. Everything is done with baijiu. So most families will know how to make it, because it‘s such a big part of their life.‖

Nine years ago, the family got the idea to turn that passed-down distilling knowledge into a business. Originally, they wanted to offer baijiu at the restaurant they owned at the time, but a couple of years after starting the distillery, one of the five siblings involved in the business picked up a novelty home-aging barrel at a garage sale. She filled it with baijiu, and a year later, found it had turned into something like whiskey.

―My sister goes, ‗try this!'‖ remembers Ly. ―I taste it. She says, ‗it‘s 77% alcohol.‘ It didn‘t taste like it—it was good!‖ They called the TTB and found that what they‘d just made legally qualified as whiskey, and a new branch of the business was born.

The process of actually making this whiskey, though, differs substantially from how westernstyle whiskeys are made. Baijiu uses a fermentation starter called qu(pronounced ―chew‖ in English), a dried, storable solid containing yeasts and other fungi, as well as the metabolic enzymes needed to convert starch into sugar. At Vinn, the qu is made with rice flour, a handful of herbs and spices, and a dose of the last batch of qu—not unlike a sourdough starter. After the rice is cooked—brown calrose rice for the baijiu, white for the whiskey—the qu is crumbled up into the mash. Fermentation, using this method, is typically at least a month long, and as long as six. That‘s substantially longer than a typical whiskey fermentation. The whiskey is then double-pot-distilled and put in new American oak barrels with varying char levels.

Unsurprisingly, this whiskey, which I got the chance to review a few months ago, is definitely unique, although I also found it quite approachable. Here‘s what I wrote in my tasting notes at the time: Nose: This whiskey is different from the first sniff, and I can’t immediately place what I’m picking up. I definitely get honey, but it comes alongside something chemical and funky. I am, in fact, reminded of baijiu. There’s an earthy fermentedness here—aged gouda?—as well as a wholesome toasted-oat graininess. I also get a rich stone fruit note, like cooked peaches. Palate: Mouth-coating and slightly oily, with the flavor balance leaning more towards grain. It’s almost floral on the back of the palate. Some bitterness on the finish fades to rice pudding and confectioner’s sugar. In Japan, there‘s at least one rice-based whiskey being made for import to the US. Kikori (which we reviewed back in 2016) is a spirit that, like Vinn and Lo‘s whiskeys, uses a different fermentation process than western whiskeys. Like Japanese shochu, Kikori is made with enzymes from a mold called koji. Yeast is then added in a second step. Kikori is aged three years in used bourbon and sherry casks. These unique spirits raise some interesting questions about how we define the whiskey category. Legally, all of these are considered whiskeys in the US—but do they taste like whiskey? With Kikori, specifically, some have raised the objection that this spirit could just as well be sold as barrel-aged shochu, and the ―whiskey‖ label is a marketing ploy.

American whiskey, though, has always been a product of the American melting pot, cooked up by immigrants adapting recipes brought from home to local ingredients and conditions. Vinn, Lo, and Riz, all of which represent the marriage of various traditions, are no exception.

ice Whiskey Makes A Small Niche For Itself In United States

AMERICAN LIFESTYLE By Katelyn Best / March 22, 2018

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At Atelier Vie, the impetus for trying a rice whiskey was geographic: Louisiana is a major producer of the grain. When owner and distiller Jedd Haas started looking into the question of whether other American distillers were making spirits from rice, he found that the existing products seemed to all be made with an Asian-style fermentation (more on that in a minute). ―So my thought,‖ he says, ―was to take Louisiana rice—which I get from a place called Falcon Rice Mill in Crowley—distill it whiskey-style, and make some whiskey out of it.‖

Louisiana rice from the Falcon Rice Mill (image via Falcon Rice Mill)

For the most part, Haas‘s process looks a lot like the ones used by other American whiskey distillers: the rice mash is cooked, enzymes are added for liquefaction and saccharification, and yeast—a malt whiskey strain, in this case—is added to begin the fermentation process. The fermentation period is fairly long, typically two or three weeks. From there, it goes into the still on the grain, and Haas distills it twice.

These unique spirits raise some interesting questions about how we define the whiskey category. Legally, all of these are considered whiskeys in the US—but do they taste like whiskey? With Kikori, specifically, some have raised the objection that this spirit could just as well be sold as barrel-aged shochu, and the ―whiskey‖ label is a marketing ploy. American whiskey, though, has always been a product of the American melting pot, cooked up by immigrants adapting recipes brought from home to local ingredients and conditions. Vinn, Lo, and Riz, all of which represent the marriage of various traditions, are no exception.

https://thewhiskeywash.com/lifestyle/rice-whiskey-makes-small-niche/

Zimbabwe spends $80m on rice importation by Staff reporter 23 Mar 2018 at 05:49hrs | 73 Views

ZIMBABWE expects to start commercial rice production in the next season or two as the country moves to cut annual rice importation expenditure of over $80 million, a senior Government official has said. Government together with Seed Co are carrying out final feasibility studies of rice growing and are touring various rice growing countries to acquaint themselves with technology and viable methods of growing the cereal. Lands, Agriculture, Rural Resettlement Minister Perence Shiri said it is high time the country should start growing rice to save foreign currency. "Zimbabwe is a net importer of rice and spends about $80 million annually to import the cereal. "We can cut our import bill by growing commercial rice locally and I am very happy that Seed Co are here (Rattray Arnold research station) and are working towards the commercial seed rice production which will see many farmers starting to grow rice at a commercial scale," said Minister Shiri. A team of experts from his ministry have already gone to Egypt to familiarise with rice production in one of Africa's largest producer. Preliminary research has shown that the country can produce rice using hybrid varieties without any problem. New rice varieties need a lot of water in the first two months and the country has sufficient water to support rice production. Seed Co has successfully tested their seed rice in Pakistan and other countries and the biggest trial is to ensure whether those seeds will successfully grow well or not locally. According to research carried out in other countries, farmers have improved average rice production to almost 10 tonnes per hectare using hybrid varieties. And Seed Co intends to bring that expertise to local farmers. Seed Co managing director Denias Zaranyika said: "We are certain that commercial rice production will be a success in Zimbabwe and currently we are still carrying out a number assessments before kick starting the programme. We will definitely be providing seeds for the programme and we are at an advanced stage to complete the job." Seed Co has started growing rice at its research station and soon could avail seeds to many farmers.

Another local firm Life Brand Agriculture Services is planning to put 10 000 hectares of rice in Masvingo - a project set to showcase Tokwe-Mukosi Dam's humongous impact on farming. Life Brand wants to produce over 300tonnes of rice domestically and establishing foreign markets like the Middle East. It has three good varieties of rice; the first was sourced from Malawi and the other two from China. Rice has become a priority crop in Africa with many countries looking at expanding production of the crop to achieve food self-sufficiency.

https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-scnational-byo-131076.htmlSeven

Pakistanis charged with working in Kenya illegally Mar. 21, 2018, 3:00 pm By MALEMBA MKONGO @malemba_mkongo

The seven Pakistani nationals who were charged with working illegally in Kenya, March 21, 2018. /MALEMBA MKONGO    

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Seven Pakistan nationals previously accused of tax evasion have been charged afresh with engaging in unlawful employment. Ramesh Kumar, Kumar Manosh, Nakash Nakash, Karan Kumar, Boja Tharo, Kumar Haresh and Kumar Sunil were all charged with working without permits at three companies. Manosh is said to have worked as an accountant at Kohistan Kenya limited without a licence. Nakash and Haresh were accused of working as a marketing manager and a salesman respectively at Kumar Emkei Global Limited. Karan and Sunil allegedly served as managers at Global View International while Tharo is said to have worked as a manager at Kine African Limited. Kumar was also charged with working at Ramesh Kumar and Commodities Limited as a director without having a permit. They all denied the charges and were released on Sh200,000 bond each. Principal Magistrate Martin Rabera set the hearing for May 4. The new charges were preferred after a month of investigations by police. The seven were 11 foreigners people linked to terrorism and tax evasion. The others were deported to Pakistan after pleading guilty to the charges. The investigations came amid complaints by local companies that accused the foreigners of using the local market as a dumping ground for cheap Pakistan rice. The traders held that the situation has denied the country revenue and fair-ground for operations.

https://www.thestar.co.ke/news/2018/03/21/seven-pakistanischarged-with-working-in-kenyaillegally_c1734138Hamdullah Tareen Becomes

Acting Rice Exporters Association Of Pakistan Chairman Mohammad Ali (@ChaudhryMAli88) 5 days ago Wed 21st March 2018 | 11:20 PM

Hamdullah Khan Tareen has taken over as Acting Chairman, Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), in the absence of REAP's Chairman Chaudhry Sameeullah and Senior Vice Chairman Rafiq Sulaiman, who are abroad. KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Mar, 2018 ):Hamdullah Khan Tareen has taken over as Acting Chairman, Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), in the absence of REAP's Chairman Chaudhry Sameeullah and Senior Vice Chairman Rafiq Sulaiman, who are abroad. Hamdullah Khan Tareen comes from Balochistan. He is popular among the business community, said a press release here on Wednesday.

https://www.urdupoint.com/en/business/hamdullah-tareen-becomes-acting-rice-exporter-290898.html

9 recipes to feast on this Pakistan Day

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Bordered by Afghanistan and India, the food of Pakistan contains many delicious similarities to Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine.

By SBS Food bite-sized

22 MAR 2018 - 8:50 AM UPDATED 22 MAR 2018 - 3:05 PM

Be prepared for aromatic stews and saccharine sweets - we promise we'll bring the chai if we're invited!

1. Haleem This recipe for haleem with beef and lentils is the ultimate slow-cooked wonder. It's full of gentle spices and warm comfort, and a Pakistani favourite. Haleem gets its lovely sticky consistency from constant stirring, so give yourself up to the hypnotic cooking and enjoy the aromas as you do.

2. Roasted chilli yoghurt chicken (taj murgh musallam) The yoghurt and chilli marinade tenderises your chicken and turns a regular roast dinner into a weekend feast for the family. Make sure to also make some spiced flatbread to serve on the side we promise you won't regret it!

3. Layered saffron rice and goat curry (bakra biryani) This recipe for biryani is a marvellous creation of layers of perfectly cooked goat curry, beautiful rice and a fresh mix of tomato, herbs and chilli. This is a feast in its own right, but we recommend serving it with a chopped salad, called a cachumbar, containing tomato, red onion, lettuce and vinegar, and with a yoghurt raita containing mint and cumin.

4. Bun kabab This one is for all you burger lovers out there. A typical sight on the streets of Karachi, in Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s south, are bustling stalls selling bun kabab which come alive at night after locals finish work and need a quick and spicy snack. There are many regional variations to this street food favourite, one of which is the addition of a fried egg or an omelette.

And of course, you gotta have dessert!

5. Pakistani hot turmeric milk (haldi doodh) The heady mix of warming spices (turmeric, cardamom, black pepper, ginger and clove) is comfort in a glass and a traditional home remedy for a cold or a sore throat.

6. Saffron and cashew bal mithai (caramelised cashew sweets with sugar nibs) These eye-catching morsels are commonly found in Pakistani bakeries - rectangular toffee coloured sweets covered in sugar nibs. Traditionally, this is made with khoya (essentially, thickened milk, cooked down for hours to resemble dulce de leche) is cooked down with cane sugar until it turns brown, and this is then colloquially called ‗chocolate‘ even though there isn‘t any cocoa in it! If you don't have Khoya on hand, use condensed milk with ground cashews, which you can cook until brown.

7. Shakarkandi ki kheer (sweet potato pudding with rice flour and spices) Thick, creamy and subtle, this kheer made with grated sweet potato and rice flour is total comfort food. Cold Lahori winter trips would include a freshly made bowl of shakarkandi ki kheer usually made by someone's aunt. Traditionally it is eaten cold, you can try this version warm as well!

8. Falooda This dish is also made in Iran and India, however, this recipe is inspired by the version made in Pakistan. Noodles in a dessert with rose syrup and kulfi, an evaporated milk ice cream.

9. Badami zafran halva ladoo (ground almond and saffron balls) You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;t escape ladoos of any kind in Pakistan, be it semolina, chickpea flour or wheat. Many bakeries in Pakistan have a mithai (sweetmeat) corner as Pakistanis and their sweet tooth wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;t go far without a ladoo. This recipe also uses Khoya as a base - so we suggest making an extra big batch if you're intending on producing a few different Pakistani sweets!

https://www.sbs.com.au/food/blog/2018/03/22/9-recipes-feast-pakistan-day

Kyzylorda rice producers to manufacture animal feed from rice hulls BY STAFF REPORT IN BUSINESS ON 22 MARCH 2018

ASTANA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Kyzylorda region Chamber of Entrepreneurs will be putting the phrase reduce-reuse-recycle into action. The organisation, which studied the leading rice-producing countries, found many South Korean farmers use a processing technology that recycles the hulls. The chamber plans to help its own growers by covering half the expense of the equipment.

―We came out with a proposal to subsidise 50 percent of the cost, stimulating farmers to install the Korean facility,‖ said chamber head Galymbek Zhaksylykov at a regional meeting. The equipment is in demand by Korean and Kazakh rice producers. The cost varies from $122,925 to $221,220 and the acquisition will ensure the growth of rice farmers‘ incomes and increase tax deductions. By assisting in negotiations with suppliers and providing a portion of the funding, the chamber hopes to motivate farmers to make the purchase. Rice hulls contain lignin, a complex polymer substance, and Kyzylorda farmers have long faced the problem of how to use them. Lignin is unsuitable for animal feed, nor does it decompose in the open air or soil. While the hulls contain 20 percent lignin, they also have 70 percent nutrients, including various medicinal components. The recycled hulls can be used as an easily digested additive in animal feed. ―There are two ways to dispose of lignin in the rice hull, to chop or to destroy the lignin form under high pressure compression. We found the facility in a South Korean company,‖ said Zhaksylykov. ―About 530,000 tonnes of rice were harvested in Kyzylorda region in 2017. Ninety thousand tonnes of rice hull remain after the grain processing that are burned or thrown away,‖ he added. Approximately 600 million tonnes of rice hulls are buried or burned annually around the world, causing negative effects on the environment and human health as the silicon dioxide they contain does not decompose

under the ground. The substance does not conduct heat, however, and is widely used in construction and manufacturing electrical products. Regional scientists discovered another way to use rice hulls last summer. They created a new technology where the grain coverings would be mixed with liquid glass and calcium chloride to form papercrete, a lightweight concrete used in construction. Using the hulls would reduce the cost, making papercrete an economical and environmentally friendly product.

https://astanatimes.com/2018/03/kyzylordarice-producers-to-manufacture-animal-feedfrom-rice-hulls/5th-grader

aims to save toddlers' lives with science project Students gather at the U. for annual Science and Engineering Fair ByPreston Cathcart

Published: March 21, 2018 8:07 pm