A delegation from Bayer Crop Science visited IRRI South Asia Regional Centre (IRRI-ISARC) to deepen collaboration on hybrid and direct-seeded rice. The discussions centered on varietal innovation, mechanization, seed systems, and market adoption strategies, highlighting consumer preferences and efforts to expand hybrid rice cultivation in India

n June 4, 2025, a four-member delegation from Bayer Crop Science visited the International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi to review collaborative rice research efforts. Led by Federico Vartorelli and Hema Reddy HB, the delegation was welcomed by ISARC Director Dr. Sudhanshu Singh and his team. The visit included a comprehensive tour of ISARC’s advanced research and training facilities.

Discussions focused on advancing direct-seeded rice (DSR), hybrid rice development, and the deployment of IRRI’s DSR-adapted rice varieties. Key topics included innovations in varietal development, seed systems, mechanization, digital cultivation tools, and capacity-building initiatives. Bayer showed keen interest in expanding hybrid rice adoption in India by tackling challenges like seed availability, affordability, farmer acceptance, DSR compatibility, and consumer grain quality preferences.