Smart Net-Zero

April 8, 2025 | Rice Today |

In Bangladesh’s Chattogram Hill Tracts—a remote, low-productivity agricultural zone marked by steep terrain, water scarcity, and poor soil fertility—the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) are introducing climate-resilient rice solutions. Through farmer-led Head-to-Head Adaptive Trials (HHATs), BRRI dhan88 and BRRI dhan100 emerged as top-performing, short-duration varieties, yielding up to 7.16 t/ha in Khagrachari and 6.80 t/ha in Rangamati. These varieties offer drought and pest tolerance, disease resistance, and superior grain quality, helping boost food security and farmer incomes despite geographical constraints. Women-led seed producer groups also reported record yields, promoting gender inclusion and local empowerment. Backed by One CGIAR and IRRI’s One Rice Breeding strategy, the initiative fosters sustainable agriculture, community resilience, and farmer-to-farmer seed exchange, demonstrating how innovation can transform livelihoods in marginal upland ecosystems.