Agrilife24.com: The Annual Research Review Workshop 2023-24 of the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) was inaugurated on Saturday at the BRRI auditorium in Gazipur. This six-day-long workshop aims to evaluate and discuss the advancements in rice research and extension programs conducted over the last year.
The event was formally opened by Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian, Honourable Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, who served as the chief guest. The inaugural session was presided over by BRRI Director General Dr. Mohammad Khalequzzaman. Special guests included Md. Ruhul Amin Khan, Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC); Dr. Nazmun Nahar Karim, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC); and Md. Saiful Alam, Director General of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE). Additionally, FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) Representative in Bangladesh, Dr. Jiaoqun Shi, attended as the guest of honor.
In his welcome address, Dr. Khalequzzaman emphasized the significance of rice research in achieving food security and overcoming emerging challenges in agriculture. The keynote presentation was delivered by BRRI Director (Research) Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam, who highlighted key achievements of the past year. BRRI Director (Administration and Common Service) Dr. Md. Anwarul Haque concluded the inaugural session with a speech of gratitude to the participants and stakeholders.
The workshop brought together experts, officials, and representatives from various organizations, including BRRI, BARI, BARC, DAE, and IRRI, alongside university researchers and farmer representatives. The technical sessions, held over six days, focused on the accomplishments of BRRI’s 19 research divisions and 17 regional stations for the year 2023-24. Topics discussed included research findings on high-yielding rice varieties, improved agronomic practices, and climate-resilient rice cultivation methods.
BRRI has made remarkable contributions to the agricultural sector, developing 115 high-yielding rice varieties, including eight hybrids. These varieties cover 80% of the total rice-cultivated area and contribute to 90% of the country’s rice production. Their innovative work has been instrumental in making Bangladesh self-reliant in rice production and addressing the challenges of climate change and food security.
The workshop underscores BRRI’s ongoing commitment to research and innovation, ensuring the country’s continued progress in rice cultivation. It also provides a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, paving the way for future advancements in sustainable agriculture.
