RICE VARIETIES SHOW WIDE NITROGEN USE EFFICIENCY

Why in the news?

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGU) researchers discovered significant differences in nitrogen use efficiency among Indian rice varieties, potentially guiding the development of low-nitrogen, high-yield crops and reducing fertiliser costs.

RICE VARIETIES SHOW WIDE NITROGEN USE EFFICIENCY - UPSCsource:wikipedia

About the discovery of Nitrogen Use Variation in Rice Varieties:

  • Biotechnologists at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGU) in New Delhi have identified significant differences in nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) among popular rice varieties in India.
  • This research can aid in developing new rice varieties that require less nitrogen, potentially reducing the need for imported fertilisers and minimising nitrogen-related pollution.
What is Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE)?

  • Defines a crop’s ability to convert applied nitrogen fertiliser into harvested grain.
  • In India, where urea is the main nitrogen fertiliser, poor NUE leads to wastage of around Rs 1 lakh crore annually.
  • Globally, this inefficiency results in over $170 billion in wasted resources.
  • Environmental impact includes nitrous oxide emissions and nitrogen runoff, contributing to greenhouse gases and water body eutrophication.

Notable high NUE varieties:

  • ‘Khira’ and ‘CR Dhan 301’: Known for long-duration growth cycles.
  • ‘Dhala Heera’: Notable for high NUE with a shorter growth duration, ideal for maximising productivity in shorter growing seasons.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/indias-protected-basmati-varieties-renamed-cultivated-in-pak-iari-demands-legal-action/