Nuclear Techniques Boost Rice Yields in Asia

Farmers in six Asian countries have significantly increased rice yields using nuclear-derived climate-smart techniques, thanks to support from the International Atomic Energy Agency and Food and Agriculture Organization. These methods address water shortages and climate impacts, enhancing food security and sustainability.

Farmers across six Asian nations have substantially boosted their rice yields by adopting nuclear-derived, climate-smart agricultural techniques supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

Rice, which feeds 60% of Asia's population and constitutes 90% of the global rice crop, is under threat from water shortages and climate change impacts. Training provided through the IAEA's technical cooperation program has led to considerable successes, particularly in Bangladesh, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Vietnam, where rice production has jumped from 1 to 2.5 tonnes per hectare.

These techniques focus on optimizing fertilizer and water use to bolster agricultural efficiency while preserving soil health. Notably, Pakistan's Punjab and Sindh provinces saw an increase in basmati rice production by 188% and long-grain rice by 176%, showcasing the potential for regional and global replication of these sustainable methods.

(With inputs from agencies.)