State-backed rice varietal cafeteria showcases zinc-rich, protein-enriched and low-GI rice to improve nutrition and farmer incomes

Odisha’s push to promote healthier, nutrient-enriched rice varieties has received strong endorsement from Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, IT and Assembly Affairs, following his visit to the Rice Varietal Cafeteria established under the state-funded programme, “Promotion, Scaling and Market Positioning of Speciality Rice in Odisha.”

During the visit, Dr. Mahaling commended the initiative for advancing rice varieties enriched with zinc, higher protein content, and low Glycemic Index (GI)—key attributes aimed at addressing malnutrition and lifestyle-related health challenges.

The Rice Varietal Cafeteria functions as a live demonstration platform where multiple rice varieties are cultivated side by side, enabling farmers and stakeholders to directly compare adaptability, yield potential, and stress tolerance under local conditions. The model supports informed decision-making and accelerates adoption of suitable specialty rice varieties.

The cafeteria has been established by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) with support from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment (DAF&E), Government of Odisha, and Puintala Farmers Producer Company (FPC) Ltd. The FPC has played a pivotal role in awareness-building, knowledge sharing, and dissemination of promising varieties among farming communities.

“Proper nutrition lies at the root of building a healthy society,” Dr. Mahaling said, highlighting the role of micronutrient-enriched rice in improving public health outcomes and strengthening food systems in the state. He noted that high-zinc rice contributes to immune function, child growth, and overall well-being, while low-GI rice supports blood sugar regulation and helps reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.

The Minister also acknowledged the efforts of farmers and Puintala FPC in processing varieties such as BRRI Dhan 69, Telangana Sona, and Zinco Rice MS into table rice and poha, adding value and improving farmer incomes. He further lauded the contribution of scientists, officials, and field staff for advancing scientific agriculture and farmer welfare.

Dr. Mahaling was accompanied by Sudhakar Nanda, Principal RITE-cum-ADO, Patnagarh; Sunanda Sahoo, DPD ATMA; and Sasmita Jena, ADA and Block Agriculture Officer, during the visit.

The initiative underscores Odisha’s commitment to integrating nutrition, agriculture, and market-led innovation, positioning specialty rice as a cornerstone of sustainable food and livelihood security.