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6 Mar 2026·Source: The Indian Express
7 min
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Ritu Singh|India
EconomyPolity & GovernanceEnvironment & EcologyEXPLAINED

India's Rice Strategy Needs Rethink Amidst Global Food Security Concerns

India's dominant position in global rice exports faces challenges, necessitating a re-evaluation of its production and export policies.

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India's Rice Strategy Needs Rethink Amidst Global Food Security Concerns

Photo by Richard Saunders

India, the world's biggest rice seller, needs to change how it grows and sells rice. Our current way uses too much water and affects global food prices, so we need to find better, more sustainable methods for our farmers and the world.

On March 2, 2026, India's rice exports, particularly basmati, faced significant threats due to escalating military tensions in West Asia, prompting the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) to advise its members against new ‘cost, insurance and freight’ (CIF) commitments to Iran and Gulf destinations. Instead, the federation recommended concluding sales on ‘free-on-board’ (FOB) terms to shift freight, insurance, and related risks to international buyers. This advisory came after the United States and Israel launched an attack on Iran, raising fears of wider regional instability and potential restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

India, the world's largest rice exporter since 2011-12 and the biggest rice producer in 2024-25 with an estimated 150 million tonnes, exported 21.69 million tonnes in 2024-25, significantly surpassing Thailand's 7.86 million tonnes and Vietnam's 8.06 million tonnes. Basmati rice, which accounts for over 70% of global production, is especially vulnerable, with nearly 50% of India’s basmati exports going to five West Asian countries: Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, the UAE, and Yemen. In 2024-2025, India exported approximately 6 million tonnes of basmati rice, valued at nearly ₹50,000 crore. Between April 2025 and January 2026, Iran alone imported about 7.8 lakh tonnes of basmati rice, worth ₹6,000 crore.

Despite exporters from Punjab and Haryana, who contribute 75-80% of basmati exports, having shipped 5.4-5.5 million tonnes by January 31, 2026—representing 83% of the targeted 6.5 million tonnes for FY 2025-26—they face severe financial and logistical stress. Nearly 45% of the value of these exports remains unpaid, as the conflict has disrupted banking channels, especially in Iran, where payment cycles typically extend to 6-8 months. Consignments are stuck at Indian ports or at sea, leading to rising demurrage charges and increased freight rates, with shipping companies demanding higher premiums or refusing coverage for conflict zones. Satish Jagdamba, President of the All India Rice Exporters Association, highlighted the uncertainty surrounding payment realization and the risk of defaults.

In response, the Central government held a high-level meeting on March 2, 2026, at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi, where officials from the Department of Commerce reviewed the situation. A dedicated coordination mechanism and a weekly review system are being established to track freight costs, shipment disruptions, and payment risks. The Reserve Bank of India and the Department of Financial Services have been tasked with examining export credit availability and interest subvention support for exporters facing liquidity stress. The government also aims to ensure transparency in shipping surcharges and improve coordination among various stakeholders.

Beyond the immediate crisis, India's rice strategy requires a fundamental rethink due to environmental and financial sustainability concerns. Paddy cultivation is highly water-intensive, consuming approximately 3,000 litres of water for every kilogram of rice produced, meaning India indirectly exports 3,000 litres of water for every kilogram of rice shipped. While non-basmati varieties, transplanted in June, require extensive irrigation, basmati varieties, transplanted in July with monsoon rains, are less water-intensive and fetch significantly higher unit value (₹82.9-92.3 per kg for basmati vs. ₹34-39.2 per kg for non-basmati in 2023-24/2024-25). Ashok Kumar Singh, former director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) and Padma Shri recipient, advocates for expanding basmati cultivation across the entire 6.2 million hectares of its GI region and promoting other high-value, less water-intensive GI-protected aromatic varieties like Kalanamak and Gobindobhog. IARI scientists have also developed high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties like Pusa Basmati-1509 (yielding 2.5 tonnes per acre in 115-120 days) and Pusa Basmati-1847, 1885, 1886 (released in late-2021), which reduce the need for chemical inputs.

This dual challenge of geopolitical instability impacting current exports and the long-term need for sustainable, high-value rice production is crucial for India's agricultural economy and global food security. It is highly relevant for UPSC Civil Services Examination, particularly for GS Paper III (Economy, Agriculture, Environment) and GS Paper II (International Relations, Government Policies).

Background Context

India, as the world's largest rice exporter, plays a pivotal role in global food security. The current strategy heavily relies on the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system, which incentivizes farmers to cultivate rice, particularly in states like Punjab and Haryana. This system, coupled with robust procurement for the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensures domestic food security and maintains buffer stocks. However, this strategy has led to an over-reliance on rice cultivation, often at the expense of environmental sustainability. The high water footprint of rice, requiring 3,000-5,000 litres of water per kilogram, strains groundwater resources, especially in non-traditional rice-growing regions.

Why It Matters Now

The current global food security concerns, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and climate change, necessitate a re-evaluation of India's rice strategy. India's export policies, such as the ban on non-basmati white rice, have direct and immediate impacts on international rice prices and the food security of importing nations.

Domestically, the strategy needs to address the long-term sustainability of agriculture, particularly concerning water usage and soil health. Rethinking the strategy involves exploring crop diversification, promoting less water-intensive crops, and ensuring economic viability for farmers while maintaining India's position as a reliable global food supplier.

Key Takeaways

  • •India is the world's largest rice exporter, contributing 40% to global trade.
  • •The current rice strategy is driven by MSP and PDS, ensuring domestic food security but leading to overproduction.
  • •Rice cultivation has a high water footprint, consuming 3,000-5,000 litres of water per kg, posing environmental challenges.
  • •India's export restrictions directly impact global rice prices and food security for importing countries.
  • •There is a pressing need for crop diversification towards less water-intensive alternatives.
  • •A balanced approach is required to sustain farmer incomes, ensure food security, and protect environmental resources.
  • •Focus on high-value basmati rice exports can provide economic benefits while reducing pressure on staple varieties.
Food SecurityAgricultural SubsidiesWater Resource ManagementClimate Change Adaptation in AgricultureInternational Trade PolicyCrop Diversification

Expert Analysis

India's current rice production and export strategy, while ensuring domestic food security and farmer income stability, is fundamentally unsustainable. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) regime, particularly for paddy, has distorted cropping patterns, incentivizing water-intensive cultivation in regions ill-suited for it, such as Punjab and Haryana. This policy has led to severe groundwater depletion and environmental degradation, a crisis that future generations will inherit. The global implications are equally stark. India accounts for 40% of the world's rice exports; any sudden policy shift, like the recent ban on non-basmati white rice, sends shockwaves through international markets, impacting food security in vulnerable nations. While domestic food security is paramount, India cannot ignore its responsibility as a global agricultural powerhouse. A more predictable and transparent export policy is essential to maintain trust and stability in global food trade. Diversification away from rice is not merely an environmental imperative but an economic necessity. Farmers need viable alternatives that offer comparable returns. Schemes promoting pulses, oilseeds, and millets, coupled with robust procurement mechanisms for these crops, are critical. The government must invest heavily in research and development for drought-resistant varieties and promote precision agriculture techniques to optimize water use. Furthermore, the current strategy creates a fiscal burden through subsidies and procurement costs. A gradual recalibration of MSP towards less water-intensive crops, alongside direct income support schemes like PM-KISAN, could provide a more sustainable safety net for farmers. This shift requires political will and a long-term vision, moving beyond short-term electoral considerations to secure India's agricultural future. Ultimately, India needs a comprehensive national strategy for crop diversification that integrates water management, market reforms, and farmer welfare. This strategy must involve state governments, agricultural universities, and farmer producer organizations to ensure localized solutions and effective implementation. Without such a rethink, India risks undermining its own food security and environmental stability in the pursuit of a flawed agricultural model.

Visual Insights

India's Rice Economy at a Glance (2025-26)

Key statistics highlighting India's position as a global rice leader and the environmental/economic costs involved.

Total Rice Output (2024-25)
150 Million Tonnes

India is now the world's largest producer, surpassing China.

Water Footprint
3,000 Litres

Amount of water required to produce just 1 kg of rice.

Basmati Export Value
₹50,000 Crore

Total value of basmati exports in the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Iran Export Risk
₹6,000 Crore

Value of premium grain exports to Iran currently facing geopolitical risks.

Quick Revision

1.

India is the world's largest rice exporter.

2.

India accounts for 40% of global rice trade.

3.

Rice cultivation has a high water footprint, requiring 3,000-5,000 litres of water per kilogram.

4.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) system incentivizes rice cultivation.

5.

Export restrictions on non-basmati white rice impact international prices.

6.

Punjab and Haryana are major rice-producing states, facing groundwater depletion.

7.

There is a need for crop diversification to less water-intensive crops.

Key Dates

2020-212021-222022-232023-24 (P)2024-25 (P)

Key Numbers

@@40%@@ (India's share in global rice trade)@@3,000-5,000 litres@@ (water per kg of rice)@@17.79 million tonnes@@ (rice exports in 2020-21)@@21.22 million tonnes@@ (rice exports in 2021-22)@@23.69 million tonnes@@ (rice exports in 2022-23)@@18.73 million tonnes@@ (projected rice exports in 2023-24)@@18.96 million tonnes@@ (projected rice exports in 2024-25)

Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Indian Economy (Agriculture, Food Processing, Export Policy), Environment (Water Scarcity, Sustainable Agriculture), Science & Technology (Biotechnology in Agriculture).

2.

GS Paper II: International Relations (Impact of Geopolitics on Trade), Government Policies and Interventions (Agricultural Policies, Export Promotion Schemes).

3.

Prelims: Facts about India's rice production/exports, water footprint, Basmati GI region, IARI varieties, trade terms (CIF, FOB), GI-protected varieties.

4.

Mains: Challenges of agricultural sustainability, export diversification, impact of geopolitics on trade, role of technology in agriculture, government intervention in agricultural markets.

More Information

Background

India's agricultural sector has historically been a cornerstone of its economy, with rice being a staple food crop and a significant contributor to agricultural GDP. The country's journey to becoming the world's largest rice exporter since 2011-12 is rooted in decades of agricultural policies, including the Green Revolution, which focused on increasing food grain production through high-yielding varieties, irrigation, and fertilizers. This emphasis on staple crops like rice and wheat ensured food security for a growing population but also led to regional imbalances in agricultural development and resource consumption. The cultivation of paddy, particularly in states like Punjab and Haryana, has been heavily supported by government policies such as Minimum Support Price (MSP) and subsidized electricity for irrigation. While these policies incentivized farmers to produce surplus rice, they also contributed to the widespread adoption of water-intensive cultivation practices, leading to concerns about groundwater depletion and environmental sustainability. The traditional transplanting-cum-continuous flooding method, which keeps fields submerged, is effective for weed control but consumes vast amounts of water. The concept of Geographical Indication (GI) tag plays a crucial role in protecting and promoting unique agricultural products like Basmati rice. India's Basmati GI region spans several states, recognizing the distinct quality and aroma of rice grown in these specific areas. This framework helps in differentiating premium products in global markets and ensuring better value realization for farmers, aligning with the broader goal of shifting towards high-value agricultural exports.

Latest Developments

In recent years, India has been grappling with the dual challenge of maintaining its agricultural productivity while addressing environmental concerns, particularly water scarcity. The government has been exploring various initiatives to promote water-efficient irrigation techniques, such as Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), and encouraging crop diversification away from water-intensive paddy in regions facing severe groundwater depletion. However, the adoption of these practices remains a challenge due to entrenched farming habits and existing support structures for traditional crops. The focus on enhancing the value of agricultural exports has gained momentum, with an emphasis on products that offer higher returns per unit of resource consumed. This includes promoting specific high-value, less water-intensive aromatic rice varieties beyond Basmati, many of which hold GI tags. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) continues to play a pivotal role in this by developing advanced, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient rice varieties through modern breeding techniques like marker-assisted selection and predictive breeding, aiming to reduce reliance on chemical inputs and improve overall sustainability. The recent geopolitical instability in West Asia has underscored the fragility of global supply chains and the vulnerability of India's export markets. The government's swift response, including establishing a dedicated coordination mechanism and reviewing export credit and insurance policies, reflects a proactive approach to mitigate risks for exporters. This also highlights the ongoing need for India to diversify its export destinations and strengthen trade relationships to build resilience against external shocks, while simultaneously pushing for a more sustainable and high-value agricultural export basket.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did India's rice exporters suddenly shift to 'FOB' terms for West Asia, and what's the difference between 'FOB' and 'CIF'?

The shift to 'Free-on-Board' (FOB) terms was prompted by escalating military tensions in West Asia, specifically after the US and Israel attacked Iran. This raised fears of shipping restrictions through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical trade route. By switching to FOB, Indian exporters transfer the risk of freight, insurance, and related costs to the international buyers, protecting themselves from potential disruptions.

  • •FOB (Free-on-Board): Seller delivers goods to the buyer's designated vessel at the port of shipment. Buyer assumes all risks and costs from that point.
  • •CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight to the named port of destination. Seller bears the risk until the goods are loaded on the vessel.

Exam Tip

Remember that FOB shifts risk to the buyer earlier, which is crucial in volatile geopolitical situations. UPSC might ask about trade terms in the context of global supply chain disruptions.

2. India is the world's largest rice exporter, accounting for 40% of global trade. What specific facts related to this dominance are most likely to be tested in Prelims?

UPSC often tests India's global position in key agricultural commodities. For rice, the most testable facts are India's status as the 'world's largest rice exporter' and its '40% share' in global rice trade. They might also ask about the year India achieved this status (since 2011-12) or its estimated production for the current year (150 million tonnes in 2024-25).

Exam Tip

Memorize 'largest exporter' and '40% share'. A common trap could be confusing India's rank in production (largest in 2024-25) with its rank in exports (largest since 2011-12). Also, remember the high water footprint (3,000-5,000 litres/kg) as a related environmental fact.

3. How does the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system, mentioned in the context, contribute to the challenges in India's rice strategy, especially regarding water scarcity?

The MSP system, while crucial for farmer income, incentivizes the cultivation of rice, even in regions unsuitable for water-intensive crops. This leads to over-reliance on paddy, exacerbating water scarcity issues, particularly groundwater depletion. Farmers are assured a price, which often makes them overlook the environmental cost of cultivation.

Exam Tip

When discussing MSP in Mains, always link it to both farmer welfare and its unintended consequences like water depletion and crop diversification challenges. UPSC loves questions that require a balanced view.

4. What's the core difference between the 'Green Revolution' and current initiatives like 'Direct Seeded Rice (DSR)' in addressing India's food and agricultural needs?

The Green Revolution primarily focused on increasing food grain production through high-yielding varieties, irrigation, and fertilizers to achieve food security. In contrast, current initiatives like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) aim for sustainable agriculture by promoting water-efficient techniques and crop diversification, addressing environmental concerns like water scarcity while maintaining productivity.

Exam Tip

Understand the shift in agricultural policy focus: from 'quantity at all costs' (Green Revolution) to 'sustainable quantity' (DSR, crop diversification). This is a crucial conceptual shift for Mains answers on agricultural policy.

5. If a Mains question asks to 'critically examine India's rice strategy in the context of global food security and environmental concerns,' how should I structure my answer?

To critically examine, you should present both the strengths and weaknesses of India's rice strategy. Start with India's dominant position as an exporter and its role in global food security. Then, delve into the challenges and their implications.

  • •Introduction: Briefly state India's significance as the largest rice exporter and producer, setting the stage for its complex strategy.
  • •Strengths: Highlight contributions to global food security (40% share), foreign exchange earnings, and farmer livelihoods.
  • •Challenges: Discuss water footprint (3,000-5,000 litres/kg), MSP-driven cultivation, environmental degradation, and geopolitical risks (West Asia tensions).
  • •Solutions/Way Forward: Mention initiatives like DSR, crop diversification, review of MSP, and exploring new markets/trade terms.
  • •Conclusion: Offer a balanced perspective, emphasizing the need for a sustainable and resilient rice strategy.

Exam Tip

For 'critically examine' questions, always ensure a balanced argument with both positive and negative aspects, followed by a constructive way forward. Use specific data points (like 40% share, water footprint) to strengthen your arguments.

6. What are India's strategic options to mitigate the risks posed by geopolitical instability in West Asia to its rice exports?

India needs a multi-pronged strategy to reduce its vulnerability. This includes diversifying export destinations beyond the traditional West Asian markets, promoting FOB terms more broadly, and strengthening its domestic logistics and port infrastructure to ensure smoother operations even during regional disruptions.

  • •Market Diversification: Explore new, stable markets in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe for rice exports.
  • •Trade Term Adaptation: Encourage wider adoption of FOB or similar terms to shift risks to buyers.
  • •Logistics Resilience: Invest in alternative shipping routes and strengthen domestic supply chains to reduce reliance on single choke points like the Strait of Hormuz.
  • •Strategic Reserves: Maintain adequate domestic reserves to cushion against global price volatility and ensure food security.

Exam Tip

When asked about strategic options, always think about diversification (markets, routes), risk mitigation (trade terms), and strengthening internal capacities (logistics, reserves).

7. How do India's export restrictions on non-basmati white rice impact international prices and global food security, and what's the rationale behind such restrictions?

India's export restrictions on non-basmati white rice significantly impact international prices due to its 40% share in global rice trade, leading to price volatility and concerns about global food security. The rationale is primarily domestic food security and price control, aiming to stabilize local prices and ensure adequate supply for its large population, especially during periods of adverse weather or inflation.

Exam Tip

Connect India's domestic policy decisions (like export bans) to their global ramifications (price hikes, food insecurity). This demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of economic interdependence.

8. Beyond rice exports, what broader implications does the West Asian instability have for India's economy and strategic interests?

West Asian instability has significant broader implications for India. The region is a major source of India's energy imports (crude oil and natural gas), a destination for Indian expatriates' remittances, and a crucial trade corridor. Disruptions can lead to higher crude oil prices, increased shipping costs, and potential repatriation challenges for Indian workers, impacting India's current account deficit and overall economic stability.

Exam Tip

When analyzing geopolitical events, always consider the '3 Rs' for India: Resources (energy), Remittances (diaspora), and Routes (trade). This helps cover the multi-faceted impact.

9. What key indicators or developments should a UPSC aspirant track in the coming months to stay updated on India's evolving rice strategy and its global context?

Aspirants should monitor several key areas to understand the evolving situation. These include government announcements on agricultural policies, global commodity price trends, and geopolitical developments.

  • •Government Policy Changes: Watch for any revisions in MSP for paddy, new incentives for crop diversification, or changes in export/import policies for rice.
  • •Monsoon Performance: The quality and distribution of monsoons directly impact rice production and thus export capacity.
  • •Global Crude Oil Prices: Fluctuations in oil prices affect shipping costs and overall trade economics, especially for West Asian routes.
  • •Geopolitical Developments in West Asia: Any de-escalation or further intensification of conflicts will directly impact shipping routes and trade confidence.
  • •Adoption of Water-Efficient Practices: Track the progress and adoption rates of initiatives like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) in major rice-producing states.

Exam Tip

Think holistically: connect domestic agricultural policy (MSP, DSR) with international factors (geopolitics, oil prices) and environmental aspects (monsoon, water scarcity).

10. Given the high water footprint of rice cultivation (3,000-5,000 litres/kg), what are the long-term implications for India's agricultural sustainability if the current strategy continues?

Continuing the current rice-centric strategy without significant changes poses severe long-term implications for India's agricultural sustainability. The high water footprint will exacerbate groundwater depletion, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana, leading to increased energy consumption for irrigation and potential desertification of fertile lands. This could threaten future food security and farmer livelihoods.

  • •Accelerated Groundwater Depletion: Leading to water scarcity for both agriculture and drinking.
  • •Increased Input Costs: Higher energy consumption for pumping water, impacting farmer profitability.
  • •Soil Degradation: Long-term monoculture and excessive water use can degrade soil health.
  • •Reduced Crop Diversification: Discourages farmers from shifting to less water-intensive but potentially more profitable crops.
  • •Climate Change Vulnerability: Increased reliance on monsoon-dependent rice makes agriculture more vulnerable to erratic weather patterns.

Exam Tip

When discussing environmental impacts, always quantify where possible (e.g., 3,000-5,000 litres/kg) and link it to broader issues like groundwater depletion, energy use, and climate change vulnerability.

11. What is the significance of the Strait of Hormuz in the context of India's rice exports and overall trade with West Asia?

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. For India, it is vital as a primary route for its crude oil and natural gas imports from West Asia, and also for a significant portion of its basmati rice exports to Gulf nations and Iran. Any disruption or restriction in this Strait due to military tensions directly threatens India's energy security and trade flows, necessitating a shift in export terms like FOB.

Exam Tip

Remember the Strait of Hormuz as a key 'chokepoint' for global energy and trade. UPSC often asks about strategic geographical locations and their impact on international relations and economy.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding India's rice sector and export strategy: 1. India became the world's largest rice producer in 2024-25, surpassing China. 2. For every kilogram of rice exported, India indirectly exports approximately 3,000 litres of water. 3. Basmati rice exports, while lower in quantity than non-basmati, fetch a higher average unit value per kilogram. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

Statement 1 is CORRECT: India became the world's biggest rice producer in 2024-25, with an estimated 150 million tonnes output, surpassing China's 145.28 million tonnes. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Paddy cultivation is highly water-intensive. With an average yield of 2.5 tonnes of paddy per acre, producing one kilogram of paddy requires about 2,000 litres of water. After milling, one kilogram of rice requires nearly 3,000 litres of water, meaning India indirectly exports approximately 3,000 litres of water for every kilogram of rice shipped. Statement 3 is CORRECT: In 2023-24 and 2024-25, basmati exports (5-6 million tonnes) were less than half of non-basmati exports (11-14 million tonnes). However, the average unit value realization from basmati exports was ₹82.9-92.3 per kg, as against ₹34-39.2 per kg for non-basmati, indicating basmati fetches a higher average unit value. Therefore, all three statements are correct.

2. In the context of recent geopolitical developments affecting India's rice exports, consider the following statements: 1. The Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) advised its members to prioritize 'Cost, Insurance and Freight' (CIF) commitments to West Asian countries. 2. Punjab and Haryana together contribute approximately 75% of India's premium aromatic basmati grain exports. 3. Iran alone imported basmati rice worth ₹6,000 crore from India between April 2025 and January 2026. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) advised its members to *avoid* new ‘Cost, Insurance and Freight’ (CIF) commitments to Iran and Gulf destinations. Instead, they were advised to conclude sales on ‘free-on-board’ (FOB) terms, where freight, insurance, and related risks remain with international buyers. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Punjab and Haryana are among the states most affected by the West Asia tensions, as they contribute nearly 75% of India's total premium aromatic basmati grain exports, with Punjab accounting for 40% and Haryana for 35%. Statement 3 is CORRECT: According to data from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Agency (APEDA), Iran alone imported premium basmati grain worth ₹6,000 crore from India between April 2025 and January 2026. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

3. With reference to advancements in rice breeding and cultivation in India, consider the following statements: 1. Pusa Basmati-1509, developed by IARI, offers significantly higher yield and shorter maturity period compared to traditional basmati varieties. 2. Marker-assisted selection is a breeding technique used to incorporate genes for disease resistance, thereby reducing the need for chemical pesticides. 3. Basmati varieties are typically transplanted in June during peak summer, requiring extensive irrigation due to high temperatures. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: Pusa Basmati-1509, a variety developed by scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), yields about 2.5 tonnes of paddy per acre with a seed-to-grain maturity of only 115-120 days. This is significantly higher and faster compared to traditional tall varieties which yield hardly one tonne and take 155-160 days. Statement 2 is CORRECT: IARI scientists have incorporated genes for resistance to bacterial leaf blight and rice blast fungal disease into popular varieties using marker-assisted selection. This "genetic" approach obviates the need for spraying antibiotics and fungicides, thereby minimizing the use of crop protection chemicals. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Basmati varieties are suitable for transplanting in July with the monsoon rains, enabling the crop’s flowering and grain development to happen during October, when day temperatures fall to 30-31°C. This cool climate is ideal for aroma accumulation. Non-basmati varieties are mostly transplanted in June at the peak of summer, necessitating almost daily irrigation. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

4. Match the following GI-protected aromatic rice varieties with their respective states of origin: List-I (Rice Variety) List-II (State) I. Kalanamak 1. Bihar II. Gobindobhog 2. Uttar Pradesh III. Katarni 3. West Bengal IV. Koraput Kalajeera 4. Odisha Select the correct matching using the code given below:

  • A.I-2, II-3, III-1, IV-4
  • B.I-1, II-2, III-3, IV-4
  • C.I-2, II-1, III-3, IV-4
  • D.I-3, II-4, III-1, IV-2
Show Answer

Answer: A

The correct matching is: I. Kalanamak - 2. Uttar Pradesh (from eastern Uttar Pradesh) II. Gobindobhog - 3. West Bengal III. Katarni - 1. Bihar IV. Koraput Kalajeera - 4. Odisha These are all GI-protected aromatic rice varieties mentioned in the source as examples of high-value, less water-intensive rice that India should promote for export. The question tests knowledge of these specific geographical indications related to agricultural products.

Source Articles

A new trade strategy: India’s performance on exports is a result of policy interventions | The Indian Express

The Indian Express·6 Mar 2026

Why Indian agriculture may need a new export-import policy | Explained News - The Indian Express

The Indian Express·6 Mar 2026

The case for uniform minimum export price for rice, without basmati distinction | Explained News - The Indian Express

The Indian Express·6 Mar 2026

Trade deals will bring opportunities for Indian agriculture. But there will also be challenges | The Indian Express

The Indian Express·6 Mar 2026

A disruption in the Strait of Hormuz can harden into lasting economic problems for India | The Indian Express

The Indian Express·6 Mar 2026
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About the Author

Ritu Singh

Economic Policy & Development Analyst

Ritu Singh writes about Economy at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.

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