Thursday, September 24, 2020

23rd September,2020 Daily Global Regional Local Rice E-Newsletter

23rd September,2020

Daily Global Regional Local Rice E-Newseltter

www.riceplusmagazine.blogspot.com

Un-Edited Version

 

 

Japanese scientists develop salt-resistant rice variety for ocean farming

 Tribune Desk

·       Published at 06:40 pm September 21st, 2020

Description: Japanese-scientists-develop-salt-resistant-rice-variety

A farmer drives a combine harvester to harvest the rice in a paddy field field surrounding the City of Toyota Stadium in Toyota City on September 27, 2019 AFP

Less than 1% of fresh water is available for human use, and 70% of that is used for agriculture worldwide

Growing rice in the salty water sounds a little whacky, but salt-resistant agriculture is an emerging form of food production that could have some real potential.

Less than 1% of fresh water is available for human use, and 70% of that is used for agriculture worldwide. 

Increased demand for food and exploding population levels are pushing innovators to explore areas where agriculture has never gone before. One crop taking to the sea is rice. 

A Japan-based team of biology scientists has developed a new rice variety through genetic improvement in an attempt to increase crop yields in a salty paddy field, The Japan Times reported.

The team, led by the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, has said it succeeded in finding a gene that determines the angle of root growth, hoping the discovery will lead to more new rice varieties amid the growing risk of salt damage as a result of frequent high tides and typhoons due to global warming.

Salt damage is predicted to affect about half the world’s existing arable land by 2050, with coastal areas in Japan and some other countries, including Bangladesh and Vietnam, already facing challenges, according to the team.

“By using this gene it may be possible to design how rice roots grow to suit farmland conditions,” said Yusaku Uga, a principal scientist at the organization.

The gene was found in one type of Indonesian rice, whose roots grow along the surface of the ground.

Just as in a drought, soil with high levels of salinity prevents plants from taking in water. Moreover, the soil becomes too firm, making them depleted of oxygen.

Presuming that rice would also be more resilient if its roots can grow along the surface of the soil, the team spent four years from 2015 monitoring how the Japanese rice Sasanishiki crossbred with the Indonesian variety produces grains in a salty paddy field, compared to ordinary Sasanishiki.

The scientists said the genetically improved rice saw a 15% increase in harvest in salty water. Meanwhile, it showed no difference in growth performance in a normal paddy field.

Shallower roots are also said to be advantageous for plants to take in phosphorus, an essential nutrient, suggesting the method could be beneficial for farmers in poverty-stricken countries and regions where fertilizers are not easily available, Uga said.

The 45-year-old scientist said the findings hold promise for other crops including corn and soybeans as they have similar genes that determine the angle of root growth.

https://www.dhakatribune.com/world/2020/09/21/japanese-scientists-develop-salt-resistant-rice-variety


 

 

 

Genomic adaptations to a rice-based diet mitigate the risk of obesity and diabetes

UNIVERSITÀ DI BOLOGNA

Research News

    

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Description: IMAGE

 

IMAGE: BLUE CLUSTERS SHOWED PREDOMINANT SOUTH ASIAN ANCESTRY, WHILE RED ONES ARE ENRICHED FOR EAST AND SOUTH EAST ASIAN ANCESTRY. RED CONCENTRIC CIRCLES INDICATE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES ALONG THE YANGTZE RIVER VALLEY... view more 

CREDIT: EVOLUTIONARY APPLICATIONS

The traditional rice-based diet of some east-Asian population has brought to a number of genomic adaptations that may contribute to mitigating the spread of diabetes and obesity. An international study led by the University of Bologna and published in the journal Evolutionary Applications has recently suggested this interesting hypothesis. Researchers analysed and compared the genomes of more than 2,000 subjects from 124 south-east-Asian populations.

"We suggest that it may be possible that some east-Asian populations, whose ancestors started eating rice on a daily basis at least 10,000 years ago, have evolved genomic adaptations that mitigate the harmful effects of high-glycaemic diets on metabolism", confirms Marco Sazzini, study coordinator and professor at the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences of the University of Bologna. "Furthermore, these adaptations plausibly continue to play a pivotal role in protecting them from the negative effects that derive from major dietary alterations brought about by the globalisation and westernization of their lifestyles. These alterations dramatically increased their consumption of food rich in processed sugar and with a high glycaemic index".

RICE AND GLYCAEMIC INDEX

Among the so-called domesticated cereals, rice presents a high glycaemic index and is rich in carbohydrates. This means that once ingested and digested, it causes sugar in the blood to increase. If eaten regularly and in large quantities, rice may represent a potential risk factor for developing insulin resistance and related metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

However, if we compare east-Asian people having used rice as a staple food for over 10,000 years with those in the Indian sub-continent, we soon find out that the latter show higher rates of diabetes and obesity than east-Asians. Why are these two groups different?

A 10,000-YEAR-OLD DIET

Archaeology may provide a hint to answering that question. Archaeobotanical findings in some eastern regions of Asia show that wild rice had been part of the inhabitants' diets in the past starting 12,000 years ago. After rice domestication and the introduction of rice farming techniques, between 7,000 and 6,000 years ago, rice spread rapidly across Korea and Japan. In northern regions of the Indian sub-continent, an independent domestication process had started 4,000 years ago and brought to the selection of rice varieties presenting a lower glycaemic index if compared to east-Asian rice.

"Different rice varieties and a head start of millennia may have put populations in China, Korea, and Japan under a more pressing metabolic stress than that experienced by south Asian populations", explains Arianna Landini, first author of this study and a PhD student at the University of Edinburgh. "This might have allowed them to evolve genomic adaptations that mitigate the risk of becoming ill with metabolic diseases linked with a high-sugar diet".

RICE AND GENOMIC ADAPTATIONS

To test such a hypothesis, researchers analysed the genome of more than 2,000 subjects from 124 east-Asian and south-Asian populations. Then, they compared the adaptive evolution observed in Chinese Han and Tujia ethnic groups, as well as in people of Korean and Japanese ancestry (with a long-standing tradition of rice-based diets) with that of people from regions of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam, and south-east Asia. Southeast Asian subjects were used as control groups because their adoption of cereal-based diets occurred many thousand years later.

"The genomic adaptations observed in control groups differ greatly from those of east Asian populations and are not related to metabolic stress due to a specific diet", says Claudia Ojeda-Granados, one of the authors and a research fellow at the University of Bologna. "Chinese Han and Tujia ethnic groups, as well as people of Korean and Japanese ancestry show instead similar metabolic genomic adaptations".

Some of the genetic modifications the researchers identified are associated with a lower BMI and a weaker risk of cardiovascular diseases thanks to a reduced conversion of carbohydrates into cholesterol and fatty acids. Some other adaptations favour a reduced insulin resistance as they negatively modulate the glucogenesis in the liver. Finally, some others stimulate the production of retinoic acid, which is a metabolite of vitamin A. Deficiency in this nutritional organic compound often causes health-issues in people eating a rice-based diet.

"Our results demonstrate once again how studying evolutionary history may successfully inform biomedical research, eventually leading to the identification of the mechanisms underlying the different susceptibility of human populations to different diseases", concludes Sazzini.

###

THE AUTHORS OF THE STUDY

The title of this study is "Genomic adaptations to cereal-based diets contribute to mitigating metabolic risk in some human populations of East Asian ancestry" and was published in the journal Evolutionary Applications. The research coordinator is Marco Sazzini, professor at the Molecular Anthropology Lab and Genomic Biology Center of the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences of the University of Bologna and of the Alma Mater Research Institute on Global Challenges and Climate Change.

Other researchers of the University Bologna participating in the study are Shaobo Yu, Paolo Abondio, Claudia Ojeda?Granados, Stefania Sarno, Sara De Fanti e Davide Pettener (Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences), together with Eugenio Bortolini and Donata Luiselli (Department of Cultural Heritage), Giovanni Romeo (Unit of Medical Genetics of the Policlinico Sant'Orsola) and Cecilia Prata (Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology).

Adriana Landini (Centre for Global Health Research at the University of Edinburgh, UK) also took part in the study and was its the first authors alongside Shaobo Yu. Finally, other participants were Guido Alberto Gnecchi Ruscone (Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History in Jena, Germany), Davide Gentilini and Anna Maria Di Blasio (Istituto Auxologico Italiano) and researchers from universities in South Korea and Vietnam.

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-09/udb-gat092120.php

 

 

  • The exports in August 2020 were recorded at Rs. 265,605 million as against the exports of Rs. 293,718 during August, 2019.

APP 21 Sep 2020

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Food Exports Decreases 17.76% In 2 Months

  Tue 22nd September 2020 | 02:54 PM

Description: Food exports decreases 17.76% in 2 months

Food group exports from the country during first two-months of current financial year decreased by 17.76% as compared the exports of the corresponding period of last year

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Sep, 2020 ) :Food group exports from the country during first two-months of current financial year decreased by 17.76% as compared the exports of the corresponding period of last year.

During the period from July-August, 2020, different food commodities worth $553.669 million exported as compared the exports of $651.384 million of same period last year, according the data of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.

Meanwhile, the exports of rice reduced by 25.52% as about 433,357 metric tons of rice valuing $247.953 million exported as against 624,266 metric tons worth $332.890 million of same period last year.

However, the exports of fish and fish preparations grew by 12.25% in first two months of current financial year as about 21,362 metric tons of fish and fish products valuing $40.

843 million exported as compared to 15,397 metric tons costing $36.386 million of same period of last year.

Meanwhile, country also earned $51.615 million by exporting about 14,959 metric tons of meat and meat products, which was up by 7.90% as against the exports of 12,796 metric tons valuing $47.834 million of same period of last year.

On the other hand food group imports into the country during first two months increased by 40.59% as different food commodities worth $981.004 million imported as against the imports of $697.759 million of same period of last year.

During the period under review, the imports of milk, cream and milk for infants increased by 26.14%, wheat unmilled grew by 100, dry fruits and nuts witnessed about 380.79% increase.

https://www.urdupoint.com/en/agriculture/food-exports-decreases-1776-in-2-months-1036254.html

 

Pakistan to challenge Indian’s claim to basmati GI tag

By

 Ghulam Abbas

 -

September 22, 2020

Description: https://profit.pakistantoday.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Non-basmati-Rice-1-600x400.jpg

ISLAMABAD: Taking serious notice of the Indian move of demanding exclusive rights of claiming Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Basmati rice in the European Union (EU), Pakistan has decided to oppose the application soon.

During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce, Intellectual Property Organisation (IPO) Chairman Mujeeb Ahmed Khan informed that Pakistan is preparing its objection to the said Indian Application and will be submitted within the stipulated time frame.

The meeting was attended by Senators Mir Kabeer Ahmad Muhammad Shahi, Zeeshan Khanzada, Nuzhat Sadiq, Dilawar Khan, Rana Mehmood ul Hassan, Advisor to Prime Minister for Commerce, Secretary Commerce and other senior officials of relevant departments.

He said India has applied for GI tag in European Union for BASMATI rice under Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs, mentioned in the EU official journal dated September 11, 2020. 

According to Mujeeb Ahmed, the Indian application mentions Basmati rice as an Indian origin product, despite the fact that similar rice is widely produced in Pakistan. The application is based on half-truth and frivolous grounds having no legal and factual backing. Pakistan exports 500,000 to 700,000 tons of basmati rice to various countries. Out of that, 200,000 to 250,000 tones are shipped to European countries. The European Union is a massive destination for local rice exporters and therefore it is a crucial issue for Pakistan.

EU regulation No 972/2006 of June 29, 2006, lays down special rules for imports of Basmati rice and a transitional control system for determining their origin has recognized Basmati as a joint product of Pakistan and India. Basmati is already recognized as a product of both India and Pakistan under the said European Regulation and its Duty-Free Regime, making it illegal for India to claim exclusive rights of Basmati in the EU.

According to EU’s official journal, any country can oppose the application for registration of a name pursuant to Article 10 and Article 50(2) (a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs within three months from the date of publication.

On Tuesday, the Ministry of Commerce, according to officials, has also held a meeting on the same subject to discuss the filling of objections in the EU besides taking other steps regarding protecting Pakistani products as per the GI law made by the government this year.

Meanwhile, Committee Chairman Senator Mirza Muhammad Afridi also directed the officials of the ministry and IPO to immediately respond to the Indian application as the move may damage Pakistani exports.

Discussing another agenda of the meeting regarding smuggling, he said that the illegal trade has reduced substantially due to effective measures for its eradication which has supported the local industry and would be instrumental for promoting economic activities and businesses in the country.  He expressed these views while presiding over the SSC on Commerce & Trade here at Parliament House on Tuesday.

Afridi appreciated the measures taken in this regard and said that the sick units need to be facilitated to ensure their revival. The committee was apprised about the problems faced by the farmers due to inadequate prices of tomato and onion despite good production during the current season. 

The committee was also briefed about the steps being taken for exploring new markets for dates, tax evasion on computers, laptops and other IT equipment, as well as the issues of under-invoicing.

The chairman and members of the committee said that the basic purpose is to protect the local industry and its production for the overall progress of the country.  Senator Mir Kabeer Ahmad Muhammad Shahi said that due to the import of the fruits and vegetable from neighbouring countries, the local farmers from Balochistan do not get adequate prices of apple, grapes, onion and tomatoes. He said that the ministry of commerce and trade should take measures for the protection of local farmers and the utilization of local production before importing such items.

The Ministry of Commerce secretary assured the committee that the issues would be resolved in collaboration with the ministry of food security and the committee would be apprised accordingly. 

Senator Dilawar Hussain, while talking about Afghan Transit Trade, said that due to the deficiency of trackers, there is huge pressure on transit points. He asserted that an appropriate solution to this should be sorted out. 

Afridi said that trade is a backbone of the national economy and an appropriate strategy should be followed to promote business activities in the country.

Advisor to the Prime Minister on Commerce Abdul Razzak Dawod apprised the committee that State Bank of Pakistan has been approached for provision of an easy loan through small and medium industries and consultation process for the IT sector is in progress, which will bear positive results.  

Secretary Commerce informed the Committee that E-Commerce policy has been introduced and the committee in its next meeting will be informed about a framework in this regard. 

Chairman of the committee appreciated these measures, however, he emphasized that sick units need to be supported so as to cater to the local requirements and as well as the export orientation from such units.  

Senator Dilawar Khan informed the committee that the Trade and Development Authority (TDAP) could not hold even a single meeting so far.  He further informed that he had sought different details from TDAP which have not been provided yet.  Senator Mirza Afridi said that TDAP is an important organisation, its board should hold regular meetings to proceed on different issues and the people of Pakistan should have access to information.  

He further said that question has been raised about Trade and Commercial Attaché posted in different countries. 

He said that Pakistan produces high-quality tobacco. Trade and commercial attaché should improve their efficiency and awareness must be created about Pakistan products in foreign countries. 

The committee insisted on the provision of facilities and capacity building of the tobacco farmers in Mardan, Charsadda and Swabi districts.

The committee was further informed that a project in collaboration with Swabi University has moved ahead.  Senator Dilawar Khan emphasised that all the stakeholders must be taken into confidence as quality tobacco of the country is produced in these areas and national exchequer gets taxes of worth billions of rupees. 

About the export of the dates, the committee was informed that 70pc of dry dates were exported to India and due to suspension of trade with India, farmers have to face huge losses.

However, efforts are being made to explore alternative markets for export of the dates and different countries have been contacted in this regard.  The chairman of the committee emphasized that these efforts must be expedited to avoid losses to the farmers.

Senator Rana Mehmood ul Hassan suggested that a policy for installation of small sugar mills should be introduced to promote compatibility in the market.  Secretary Commerce informed the committee that such a proposal is already under consideration in different ministries. 

The committee was also apprised about clearance of containers at Port Qasim as well as money laundering issues in the country. 

 Ghulam Abbas

The writer is a member of the staff at the Islamabad Bureau. He can be reached at abbasskd5@gmail.com

 

 

 

https://profit.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/09/22/pakistan-to-challenge-indians-claim-to-basmati-gi-tag/

 

 

 

 

 

Pakistan to challenge India’s claim on Basmati

Senate panel told India has challenged GI law in EU market


Our CorrespondentSeptember 23, 2020

Description: PHOTO: FILE

PHOTO: FILE


ISLAMABAD:

India has claimed its rights over Basmati rice in the European Union market and has challenged the Geographical Indication (GI) law, Commerce Secretary Muhammad Sualeh Ahmad Faruqui informed a parliamentary panel on Tuesday.

He told the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce and Trade that India had challenged the GI law aimed at protecting Pakistani-origin products. Intellectual Property Organisation (IPO) Chairman Mujeeb Ahmed Khan revealed that India had challenged Pakistan’s Basmati rice in the EU on September 11 but it did not challenge the entire law.

He said that India had applied for tagging of Basmati rice in the EU market. The EU has uploaded the information on its website so that if any country has any objection it can make a request within a specific time period. The IPO chairman added that Pakistan would challenge the claim, saying that India had manipulated facts in its application and its case was based on weak grounds.

Speaking on the occasion, Committee Chairman Senator Mirza Muhammad Afridi said that smuggling had gone down substantially due to the effective measures taken for its eradication, which supported the domestic industry and would be instrumental in promoting economic activities and businesses in the country. Afridi appreciated the measures, saying that sick units needed to be facilitated to ensure their revival.

The committee was also apprised of the problems faced by farmers due to inadequate prices of tomato and onion despite a good harvest during the current season.

It was briefed about the steps being taken for exploring new markets for dates, tax evasion on computer, laptops and other IT equipment as well as issues related to under-invoicing.

Committee chairman and its members said that the basic purpose was to protect the domestic industry and its production for overall progress of the country. Senator Mir Kabeer Ahmad Muhammad Shahi said that due to import of fruits and vegetables from neighbouring countries, farmers of Balochistan did not get fair prices for apple, grapes, onion and tomato.

He said that the Ministry of Commerce and Trade should take measures for the protection of farmers and ensuring utilisation of domestic produce before importing such commodities.

Responding to that, the commerce secretary assured the committee that the issues would be resolved in collaboration with the Ministry of National Food Security and the committee would be apprised accordingly.

Talking about Afghan transit trade, Senator Dilawar Hussain said that due to the deficiency of trackers, there was a huge pressure on transit points. He asserted that an appropriate solution should be found.

Elaborating, the committee chairman said that trade was the backbone of the national economy and an appropriate strategy should be framed to promote business activities in the country.

Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce Abdul Razak Dawood apprised the committee that the State Bank of Pakistan had been approached for the provision of easy loans to small and medium industries and consultation process for the IT sector was in progress, which would yield positive results.

The commerce secretary informed the committee that an e-commerce policy had been introduced and the committee, in its next meeting, would be informed about the framework in that regard.

Afridi appreciated the measures but he emphasised that sick units should be supported so as to cater to local requirements as well as export-oriented units. Senator Dilawar informed the committee that the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) could not hold even a single meeting so far. He said that he had sought different details from TDAP, which had not been provided yet.

Senator Afridi said that TDAP was an important organisation and its board should hold regular meetings to proceed on different issues and the people of Pakistan should have access to information. He said that a question had been raised about the trade and commercial attachés posted in different countries. He added trade and commercial attachés should improve their efficiency and awareness must be created about Pakistani products in foreign countries.

The committee also insisted on the provision of facilities and capacity building of tobacco farmers in Mardan, Charsadda and Swabi districts. Senator Dilawar emphasised that all stakeholders must be taken into confidence as quality tobacco was produced in those areas and the national exchequer got taxes worth billions of rupees.

About the export of dates, the committee was informed that 70% of dry dates had been exported to India but due to suspension of trade with Delhi, farmers were facing huge losses.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 23rd, 2020.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2265216/pakistan-to-challenge-indias-claim-on-basmati


 

 

 

 

21 SEPTEMBER 2020  Last Updated at 5:45 PM | SOURCE: PTI

Govt sets foodgrain output target at record 301 mn tonnes for 2020-21

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New Delhi, Sep 21 (PTI) The government has set foodgrain production target at a record 301 million tonnes for the 2020-21 crop year, up nearly 1.5 per cent from the previous year''s output, on the back of good monsoon rains and higher acreage in the kharif season.

The target for the 2020-21 crop year (July-June) was set at the National Conference for Rabi Campaign 2020, which was held on Monday to review the progress of the kharif (summer-sown) season and plan for the rabi crops.

Addressing the event, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar congratulated farmers and state governments for record foodgrain production of 296.65 million tonnes in the 2019-20 crop year.

"The conference set a target of 301 million tonnes of food grains production for 2020-21...," an official statement said.

Rice production target has been fixed at 119.6 million tonnes (MT) in 2020-21 as against 118.43 MT output in the last year.

The target of wheat output has been set at 108 MT as compared to 107.59 MT. Coarse cereals output target is almost flat at 47.80 MT as against 47.48 MT in the previous year.

Pulses production target has been is fixed at 25.60 MT, up from 23.15 MT output in 2019-20, while that of oilseeds was set at 37 MT as against the estimated output of 33.42 MT last year.

Tomar also complimented the farming community and states for higher sowing in the kharif season despite the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns.

Kharif sowing during this year up to September 11 stood at 1,113 lakh hectares, which is 46 lakh hectares more than normal.

Tomar said the government is taking revolutionary steps to strengthen agriculture infrastructure and economic condition of the farmers.

Recently, the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme worth Rs 1 lakh crore for four years was launched for creating facilities for cold storage, warehouse, packaging, ripening and waxing plants by agri-entrepreneurs, farmers'' association and local government agencies.

The minister further said that two bills relating to freedom of marketing for farmers have been passed in Parliament.

The Farmers'' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion & Facilitation) Bill 2020 and the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill 2020 will give a boost to farmers engaged in agriculture and allied activities, he added.

Farmers will get freedom to sell their produce at different places.

The government will continue the practice of procurement at minimum support price (MSP) through the existing network, he added.

Tomar further said the government has set a target of covering 100 lakh hectares in five years under micro-irrigation.

A dedicated Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF) of Rs 5,000 crore has been created with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for expanding coverage of micro-irrigation.

In the year 2019-20, about 11 lakh farmers have benefitted by the adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation system. During the last five years, an area of 47.92 lakh hectare has been covered under micro-irrigation in the country, which includes 11.72 lakh hectares for the year 2019-20 which is a significant achievement, he said.

Ministers of State for Agriculture Parshottam Rupala and Kailash Choudhary were also present at the conference. PTI MJH MJH ABM ABM

https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/govt-sets-foodgrain-output-target-at-record-301-mn-tonnes-for-202021/1940011

 

 

 

 

Commodity Credit Corporation Funding Vital to Keeping Rice Farms in Business 

By Jamison Cruce

 

WASHINGTON, DC -- Negotiations continue in the House of Representatives on a continuing resolution (CR) that would fund the Federal government through December 11.  One of the remaining points of contention is the early replenishment of funding for the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), or the "bank" for the U.S. Department of Agriculture that funds farm safety net, conservation, and other Farm Bill and agriculture related programs.  The inclusion of CCC funding replenishment is paramount for timely administration of the aid these programs provide farmers. Description: C:\Users\abc\Downloads\unnamed.png

A vote on the CR is expected on the House floor as early as this afternoon.  In order to avert a government shutdown, both the House, Senate, and White House must be in agreement on the short-term funding package by midnight on September 30.

"The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) is essential to providing some security for America's rice farmers.  Among its most important roles is facilitating funding for farm safety net programs which provide modest relief to agricultural producers," said Nicole Montna Van Vleck, California rice farmer and chair of the USA Rice Farmers.  "While aid received by farmers through farm safety net programs does not make them whole, it is crucial in helping keep farmers in business."

Van Vleck added, "The inclusion of CCC funding replenishment in the continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown come October 1 is vital, especially given current uncertainties due to the lingering effects of ongoing trade disputes and the COVID-19 pandemic.  Rice farmers need the assurance of funding for their safety net programs."

 

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Scientists Highlight the Diabetes-Fighting Benefits of Whole Grains

By Melissa Scott September 21, 2020

 

 

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Consumption of whole grains have long been considered to be one of the healthiest dietary practices.

(Newswire.net -- September 21, 2020) Orlando, FL -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals over 100 million adults in the United States nowadays live with prediabetes or diabetes. 

It is further important to be warned that diabetes is ranked as the seventh top cause of death in the country in 2015. 

According to CDC Director Brenda Fitzgerald, M.D., more than a third of U.S. adults have prediabetes, and the majority don’t know it. Now, more than ever, we must step up our efforts to reduce the burden of this serious disease.

Health authorities have long been warning that diabetes is a serious disease that is not just incurable, but could also produce symptoms. It is best to engage in physical activities and follow a healthy diet to ward off the condition.

There are many diabetes-fighting foods studies have found to be particularly helpful for sufferers of the condition. These are foods that may also work wonders in lessening the odds of the condition.

Whole grains are seeds of grass-like plants called cereals. It is worth noting that some of the most common varieties are rice, corn, and wheat. It is worth noting grains can be rolled, cracked, or crushed. 

The most common varieties of whole grains are popcorn, oatmeal, millet, quinoa, brown rice, whole rye, wild rice, wheat berry, and bulgur.

Consumption of whole grains have long been considered to be one of the healthiest dietary practices. This is particularly true to individuals who are prone to or already suffering from the condition.

According to experts, consumption of this food may lessen the odds of type 2 diabetes, which is undeniably prevalent nowadays especially in the U.S.

Scientists carried out a review of 16 studies and found that consuming whole grains instead of the refined varieties, particularly a minimum of 2 servings daily, may lessen the odds of the condition. They also reveal that due to the high fiber levels this food contains, it is beneficial for weight control.

This is an added benefit considering that obesity is a risk factor for diabetes. More studies are still being carried out to explore the healing goodness of this food.

Whole grains also have B vitamins, some of which are found to be heart-healthy. There are quite a number of health benefits linked with the intake of these nutrients, and this is why it is widely consumed via supplementation.

Formulas like Divine Bounty B Vitamin Complex could be an excellent source of this remedy.

It contains Choline, Pantothenic acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Niacin, Riboflavin, Thiamin, and vitamin B6 (www.amazon.com/dp/B07414752B).

About Divine Bounty

Divine Bounty is a family-owned brand that manufactures high-quality turmeric curcumin supplements. Passionate about the potential health benefits of turmeric, the team behind Divine Bounty have carefully researched and sourced only the best ingredients to create the ideal blend of turmeric curcumin. More details are available at http://www.DivineBounty.com.

Divine Bounty

12001 Research Parkway
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Source: http://newswire.net/newsroom/pr/00123882-scientists-highlight-the-diabetes-fighting-benefits-of-whole-grains.html

https://newswire.net/newsroom/pr/00123882-scientists-highlight-the-diabetes-fighting-benefits-of-whole-grains.html

 

 

 

Exports increase 1 per cent to Rs599 billion in two months

Description: Exports increase 1 per cent to Rs599 billion in two months

 

APP

September 22, 2020

ISLAMABAD-Exports from the country, in rupee term, increased by 1 per cent during the first two months of the current fiscal year as compared to the corresponding period of last fiscal year, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported.  The exports from the country during July– Aug (2020-2021) were recorded at Rs599,260 million as against Rs593,306 million during the corresponding period of last year, showing an increase of 1 per cent, according to provisional data released by PBS.

However, on year-on-year basis, the exports from the country decreased by 9.57 per cent in August 2020 when compared to the exports of August 2020. The exports in August 2020 were recorded at Rs265,605 million as against the exports of Rs293,718 during August, 2019. On month-on-month basis the exports decreased by 20.40 per cent per in August 2020 when compared to the exports of Rs333,655 million in July, 2020. The main commodities of exports during August, 2020 were knitwear (Rs41,691 million), readymade garments (Rs34,041 million), bed wear (Rs30,353 million), cotton cloth (Rs24,375 million), rice others (Rs10,996 million), towels (Rs9,271 million), cotton yarn (Rs9,159 million), made-up articles excluding towels & bedwear (Rs.8,224 million), Basmati rice (Rs5,639 million) and surgical goods & medical instruments (Rs5,517 million). On the other hand, imports during July – August, 2020 totalled Rs1,170,081 million as against Rs1,177,808 million during the corresponding period of last year, showing a decrease of 0.66 per cent.

Imports into Pakistan during August, 2020 amounted to Rs557,418 million (provisional) as against Rs612,663 million (provisional) in July, 2020 and Rs. 588,070 million during August 2019 showing a decrease of 9.02 per cent over July, 2020 and of 5.21 per cent over August 2019. The main commodities of imports during August, 2020 were Petroleum products (Rs60,821 million), petroleum crude (Rs.40,331 million), mobile phones (Rs26,562 million), plastic materials (Rs25,942 million), palm oil (Rs24,618 million), natural gas, liquefied (Rs24,311 million), iron and steel scrap (Rs23,979 million), power generating machinery (Rs18,984 million), electrical machinery & apparatus (Rs15,060m) and medicinal products (Rs13,750 million).

https://nation.com.pk/22-Sep-2020/exports-increase-1-per-cent-to-rs599-billion-in-two-months

 

 

Pakistan seeks to boost trade with Sri Lanka to US$ 2 billion
Mon, Sep 21, 2020, 09:09 pm SL Time, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Description: http://www.colombopage.com/CGImgs_obj/Pk_SL.jpgSept 21, Colombo: The High Commission of Pakistan in Colombo held the first virtual business forum in collaboration with Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB) to enhance awareness regarding trade and investment opportunities between the two friendly countries on 18th September, 2020.

In his remarks at the inaugural session, the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka, Major General (Retd.) Muhammad Saad Khattak, appreciated the initiative taken by Prabhash Subasinghe, Chairman of Sri Lanka Export Development Board (SLEDB) and his team in jointly organizing the webinar.

The High Commissioner emphasized that although bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and Sri Lanka had witnessed a steady increase over the years, there is however an estimated potential to enhance the current volume of US$ 460 million to over US$ 2 billion. For this reason, he stressed the urgent need to take practical steps in overcoming constraints on both sides and to enhance business-to-business linkages, especially through organizing such online forums considering the current scenario of Covid-19 pandemic.

The High Commissioner further underscored the importance that Pakistan places on its longstanding close and friendly relations with Sri Lanka, which are based on mutual respect and close co-operation. The High Commissioner reiterated that Pakistan deeply values its first Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which was signed with Sri Lanka in 2005. He expressed the High Commission’s complete support and facilitation in developing deeper economic cooperation with Sri Lanka through optimal utilization of the Pakistan – Sri Lanka FTA, which is the major tool for trade promotion between the two countries.

The Commercial Secretary of Pakistan also delivered a detailed presentation on Pakistan’s economy and its trade and investment opportunities with Sri Lanka. She underlined the government’s strong reform agenda in positioning Pakistan globally as a business and investor friendly destination. She further highlighted the remarkable progress made by Pakistan on improving its ranking from 136th to 108th place on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business index 2020, thereby being ranked as the 6th biggest reformer in the world.

While providing an analysis of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the Commercial Secretary identified priority sectors for exports by Pakistan into Sri Lanka including Portland cement, textile products, Basmati rice, pharmaceuticals, iron and steel products, dates, electrical fans, surgical and dental instruments amongst other. She further stressed the importance of joint ventures between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in sectors including tourism and hospitality, textile processing and productivity and construction.

Senior officials from Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, Department of Commerce Sri Lanka and Board of Investment Sri Lanka also delivered sessions on import/ exports procedures and role of TDAP in Pakistan, export opportunities for Sri Lanka under the FTA and potential investment opportunities for Pakistan in Sri Lanka, respectively. The webinar witnessed significant interest from business representatives across various sectors from both Sri Lanka and Pakistan in live online viewership and participation in question and answer session at the end.

 

http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20B/Sep21_1600702794CH.php

 

 

 

Zahid Baig 22 Sep 2020

 

LAHORE: Pakistan's rice exports showed an overall 31 percent decline in the first two months (July & August 2020) of the current fiscal year as compared to corresponding period year due to least interest of buyers.

During August 2020, Basmati export from Pakistan came down by 46% from 66,961 tons in August 2019 to 35,917 tons in August 2020. Non-Basmati export came down by 35% from 192,167 tons in August 2019 to 131,876 tons in August 2020. In two months of July/August 2020, a massive decrease of 31% has been recorded (433,357 tons from 624,266 tons), said Hamid Malik, an agriculture expert with in-depth knowledge of rice value chain while talking to Business Recorder here on Monday.

He said for rice exports it is a worrisome start in this financial year. For Non-Basmati less export from Pakistan is due to short of exportable rice in July/August this year and higher prices as compared to India, he observed.

"We expect a much better export of Non-Basmati in September 2020 onwards due to the arrival of new hybrid rice on the start of September. Pakistan got more competitive than India in September 2020 and logistics problems of slow loading and COVID-19 at main Indian port of Kakinada. The slow pace of Pakistan Basmati export trend will continue through September-October this year due to higher prices at the mill-gate level in Pakistan as compared to India," he concluded.

Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) Chairman, Shahjahan Malik while commenting on this situation termed it a post-COVID-19 lull, he claimed there was panic buying during the COVID-19 by the buyers due to food security apprehensions. However, he hoped that the situation would improve in the next few months and Pakistan at the end of the current financial year will again be making the export of around US$2.5 billion.

Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) Senior Vice President, Ali Hussam Asghar while talking to this scribe said that his own business of rice export had seen no activity during this period. Again, he said, it is because the buyers over-estimated the consumption during the lockdown period around the world as they have sufficient stocks, they may go for buying again in the next few months.

https://www.brecorder.com/news/40020255/rice-exports-decline-31pc-in-two-months

Kirinyaga rice farmers receive free seeds from government

Agriculture ministry to distribute through the county government.

In Summary

• Identification of beneficiaries was done in consultation with the county Department of Agriculture, the Mwea Irrigation Water Users' Association and farmers.

• The donation includes 10,000 kilogrammes of Basmati variety seeds and 3,000 kilogrammes of hybrid variety to be planted on about 1,000 acres.

Description: Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru (2nd L) inspects Mwea rice scheme in Muthithi ward on September 6, 2017.

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru (2nd L) inspects Mwea rice scheme in Muthithi ward on September 6, 2017.
Image: MARY KIMANI

Kirinyaga rice farmers are set to receive seed donation from the government.

This will be delivered to the county government through the State Department of Crops Development and Agriculture Research.

Addressing MCAs and farmers' representatives in Sagana after receiving the consignment, Governor Anne Waiguru thanked President Uhuru Kenyatta for the donation, which will benefit 1,000 rice farmers.

Identification of beneficiaries was done in consultation with the county department of agriculture, the Mwea Irrigation Water Users' Association and farmers across rice-growing wards in Mwea.

“Kirinyaga county is thankful to the President for this donation and we will ensure these seeds are distributed immediately to the farmers to enable them to plant on time,” Waiguru said.

Rice has been one of the priority value chains that support the Big Four Agenda pillar on food security and nutrition.

The initiative will complement efforts by the county government in the promotion of rice production, which include coordination of water provision and improvement of the road network within the Mwea Irrigation Scheme.

The donation includes 10,000 kilogrammes of Basmati variety seeds and 3,000 kilogrammes of hybrid variety to be planted on about 1,000 acres.

Waiguru said the county government will continue extension and advisory services to farmers, to promote good agricultural practices for increased production.

“We will continue working with other stakeholders to support our farmers to ensure improved production and marketing of rice,” she said.

The governor noted widespread outcries over cheap imported rice that has disadvantaged farmers.

“We have good quality rice that is still in the factory for lack of market, and when farmers sell they are forced to do so at throwaway prices,” Waiguru said.

She added that county leaders have planned a meeting with Cabinet secretaries Betty Maina (Trade) and Peter Munya (Agriculture) to find a lasting solution to rice marketing problems.

Kirinyaga is the largest rice-growing county in Kenya, with Mwea Irrigation Scheme having 26,000 acres under rice and about 7,000 farmers.

The total annual rice production in the scheme is estimated at 113,000 tonnes and there exists the potential for enhanced production. 

STAR COMMUNITY POLICY AND PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES

https://www.the-star.co.ke/counties/central/2020-09-21-kirinyaga-rice-farmers-receive-free-seeds-from-government/

 

 

 

Punjab lowers market fee on basmati rice

​ By IANS | Published on ​ Tue, Sep 22 2020 16:33 IST

Description: Bengaluru: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh addresses during his visit to meet the families which lost their kin in the hooch tragedy, in Tarn Taran about 25 kms from Amritsar on Aug 7, 2020. The CM announced an increased compensation of Rs 5 laBengaluru: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh addresses during his visit to meet the families which lost their kin in the hooch tragedy, in Tarn Taran about 25 kms from Amritsar on Aug 7, 2020. The CM announced an increased compensation of Rs 5 la. Image Source: IANS News

CHANDIGARH, SEP 22 : Paving the way to provide a level-playing field for basmati traders and millers from within and outside Punjab, especially in the light of the provisions of the new agriculture Bills, Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Tuesday announced reduction in the market development fee and the rural development fee rates, from two to one per cent each.

The move, which will also help keep Punjab basmati competitive in the international markets, will provide relief to the tune of Rs100 crore to traders and millers, according to an official spokesperson.

However, the change comes with the caveat that no refund of any fee will be allowed to any paddy, rice dealer, miller or trader for export of the basmati paddy or rice to other countries from the state.

The Chief Minister's announcements came in response to a proposal of the Punjab Mandi Board, made after thorough examination of the representations received from the Punjab Rice Millers and Exporters Association and the Punjab Basmati Rice Millers and Exporter Association.

The Punjab Rice Millers and Exporters Association had submitted that with the farm ordinances coming into force, the disparity in fees and other charges among the basmati producing states would be around four per cent, thus making the rice industry in Punjab economically unviable as it would be unable to compete with rice exporters in Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, which had totally exempted the market fees from agricultural produce.

They had also pleaded that Punjab-based exporters would not be able to cover the additional cost of taxes, which is four per cent plus, thus making it extremely difficult for them to remain in business.

This trend may force them to purchase paddy from other states to remain in competition.

Pointing to the excellent Mandi infrastructure network of the Punjab Mandi Board, the Association had urged the state government to implement 0.35 per to one per cent usage charges or mandi fees on the first purchase instead of all other charges that are currently levied, in order to keep the Punjab rice industry competitive viz-a-viz other states.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text

 

https://www.prokerala.com/news/articles/a1084944.html

 

 

 

Expect a bumper kharif output of 144.5 mt: Agri Ministry

Our Bureau  New Delhi | Updated on September 22, 2020  Published on September 22, 2020

Description: https://bl.thgim.com/economy/agri-business/ter6vu/article32643929.ece/alternates/WIDE_615/kharif-cropjpg

RELATED

Centre hikes MSP for wheat by 50 to 1,975/quintal

Copious summer rains and good monsoon helped farmers take up early planting

Bountiful and well-spread monsoon rains may help the country reap a record kharif foodgrain harvest of 144.52 million tonnes (mt) — a tad higher than the 143.38 mt, which was the previous best, according to First Advance crop estimates released by the Agriculture Ministry on Tuesday.

Oilseeds and cotton, too, are projected to yield much more than last kharif season. As against the previous season’s production of 22.32 mt, oilseeds output is estimated to be 25.73 mt, while cotton production may scale a new high of 37.12 million bales (of 170 kg each) as compared to 35.49 million bales in last kharif season.

Description: https://bl.thgim.com/incoming/i87odh/article32671610.ece/alternates/FREE_615/bl23Septkhariftblejpg

 

Setting new records

Two crops that would rewrite records in terms of output would be rice and groundnut. An increased sowing may push rice production to 102.36 mt as against 101.98 mt in the 2019-20 kharif season, while groundnut output is estimated to touch 9.54 mt (8.37 mt). A substantial jump is expected in pulses production, with all major pulses crops such as urad, moong and tur pitching in. Total kharif pulses production is slated to be 9.31 mt (7.72 mt).

 

 

Even though the overall output of coarse cereals is expected to dip to 32.84 mt (33.69 mt), maize production is expected to do better with 19.88 mt, which is higher than 19.63 mt last year. However, bajra output may fall by over one million tonnes and ragi, too, would see a slump in production.

MORE

Output of other major kharif oilseed crop soyabean is projected to be 21 per cent higher at 13.58 mt. But the soyabean growing areas have subsequently witnessed heavy rains which may have an impact on the final production numbers. Better than average summer rains and subsequent monsoon, which was 7 per cent more than the normal so far, have helped farmers to take to early kharif planting this year. Besides, water level in most reservoirs in the country was at comfortable level before the season began.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/expect-a-bumper-kharif-output-of-1445-mt-agri-ministry/article32671174.ece

 

 

Bioseed partners with IRRI for hybrid rice development

Our Bureau.  New Delhi | Updated on September 22, 2020  Published on September 22, 2020

Description: https://bl.thgim.com/economy/agri-business/piwztn/article32669066.ece/alternates/WIDE_615/hybrid-rice

Hastily hustled farm laws raise question marks

Bioseed — the hybrid seed business of diversified conglomerate DCM Shriram — and the Manila-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have signed a memorandum of agreement which allows the former access to the latter’s world-class research facilities and technical expertise for advancing biotechnology research.

Under the pact, signed by Bioseed South East Asia Executive President Paresh Verma and IRRI Director General Matthew Morell, Bioseed will join the international institute’s Two-Lines Study Group for hybrid rice development, the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

“It will enable Bioseed to leverage IRRI’s well-established research excellence to advance its biotechnology projects and accelerate the development of value-added food crops for farmers in the region,” said Verma.

“This agreement will help increase research capacity across South and South-East Asia and accelerate the development of improved crops for climate resilience and nutrition security,” said Remy Bitoun, Head of IRRI Tech Transfer.

Follow us on TelegramFacebookTwitter, Instagram, YouTube and Linkedin. You can also download our Android App or IOS App.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/bioseed-inks-pact-with-irri-for-hybrid-rice-development/article32669067.ece#:~:text=Bioseed%20%E2%80%94%20the%20hybrid%20seed%20business,expertise%20for%20advancing%20biotechnology%20research

 

 

 

India aims to cut crop waste burning in Punjab and Haryana by 80%

SEPTEMBER 22, 20207:04 PM

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India is likely to reduce crop waste burning, a major source of air pollution during the winter months, by 75-80% in Punjab and Haryana states, part of the country’s farm belt that borders the capital New Delhi, two government officials said on Tuesday.

FILE PHOTO: Smoke billows from paddy waste stubble as it burns in a field near Jewar, Uttar Pradesh, India November 6, 2018. REUTERS/Altaf Hussain/File Photo

Every winter, a thick blanket of smog settles over northern India, as a combination of factors such as the burning of crop residues, industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust brings a sharp spike in pollution.

Crop residue burning accounts for about a quarter of air pollution in winter months, various studies show.

The federal government and the state governments of Punjab and Haryana have ensured that rice farmers can easily hire machines to dispose of the paddy stalks and straw, said the officials, who did not wish to be identified in line with government policy.

In 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government earmarked $177.61 million for two years to give farmers the subsidy to buy farm equipment, such as mulching and seed drilling machines, that dispose of crop waste without burning them.

For the current 2020-21 fiscal year, the government allocated $746.06 million in farm equipment subsidies.

“The subsidy programme is in its third year, and it’s going to result in a substantial reduction of up to 75-80% this year,” said one of the officials.

The farm fires could pick up in the next few weeks and hit highs in late October and early November, when farmers harvest the rice crop and prepare the ground for winter planting.

So far this year, New Delhi has experienced the longest spell of clean air on record.

“Rice harvests will start gathering momentum in the next 30 days, and that’s the time when these claims about substantially bringing down crop fires will be put to the test,” said Vimlendu Jha, an environmental expert who founded the activist group Swechha.

Reporting by Mayank Bhardwaj and Neha Dasgupta; Editing by Alex Richardson

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

https://www.reuters.com/article/india-pollution/india-aims-to-cut-crop-waste-burning-in-punjab-and-haryana-by-80-idUSKCN26D1XJ

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh: Market Monitor (August 2020)

Format

Situation Report

 

Source

 

 

 

Posted

 

22 Sep 2020

 

Originally published

 

22 Sep 2020

Attachments

Key Messages

• In August, mixed price trends was observed in the markets, with rice price (41–44 BDT/Kg) continuing to rise in most markets, lentil prices fluctuating week-on-week, oil price is stable, and price of garlic continues to decline.

• Almost six months into the COVID-19 pandemic, the same mixed trends are observed across commodities. However, better integrated, centrally located market-hubs such as Chattogram have clearly been less impacted by rising prices of staples such as rice and lentils as compared to markets in Cox’s Bazar.

• Rice prices forecasted to remain high owing to Aus1 and Aman1 crop losses due to the recent floods and heavy monsoon. Bumper harvest during the Boro season however expected to cover demand for rice reserve.

• Overall, all markets within Cox’s Bazar district are running at approximately 50 percent functionality on average, with Ukhia faring marginally better than others for providing with more variety of product choice and having better stock compared to others.

• Supply chain functionality in terms of responsiveness and availability of goods is high but low assortment of goods and high price volatility scores across the region has lowered overall market functionality.

• Five out of ten traders reported that consumers are buying less goods than usual, where two out of ten traders said that customers are asking to buy on credit, highlighting continued strains on purchasing power and consumer demand.

• In camp markets, slight increase in purchasing power with the partial reopening of economy had positive impact on reduced credit purchase.

• The widespread decrease in sales volume has not affected business sustenance for majority of traders (72 percent) in the region as adversely but tax relief and loan disbursement have emerged as perceivably the most needed policy support mechanisms for the remaining (28 percent) vulnerable trader community.

https://reliefweb.int/report/bangladesh/cox-s-bazar-bangladesh-market-monitor-august-2020

 

 

Customs steps up drive vs rice smuggling

ABS-CBN News

at Sep 22 2020 02:28 PM

Workers load imported rice onto a truck. ABS-CBN News file photo

MANILA - The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is stepping up its campaign against rice smuggling by conducting raids on warehouses suspected of storing illegally imported grain following reports by concerned citizens, the Department of Finance said on Tuesday. 

The BOC said the valuation of several rice shipments to “be quite low compared to the prevailing market prices.” 

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said rice stocks imported by private traders would still be subject to “post-modification and post audit” to ensure that undervalued shipments are properly assessed and subsequently paid with the correct amount of duties and taxes.

This was after the Federation of Free Farmers questioned the BOC’s assessment and valuation system on the entry of rice imports.

The BOC said that because rice is considered a “critical” commodity amid the pandemic, traders were allowed to avail of the Provisional Goods Declaration in processing their shipments.

“But those are subject to post-modification and post-audit,” Guerrero said. 

The BOC has also deployed inspectors to warehouses suspected of storing smuggled rice stocks.

“We actually raided them and we found out that many of these warehouses were operating legally and their stocks are covered by proper documents,” Guerrero said.

Cavite airport builder to be tagged in case vs China's Xi

ABS-CBN News

Posted at Sep 24 2020 10:23 AM | Updated as of Sep 24 2020 10:56 AM

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and People's Republic of China President Xi Jinping pose for posterity prior to the start of the bilateral meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on Aug. 29, 2019. Robinson Ninal, Presidential Photo/File

MANILA — A Chinese firm that is set to build an airport in Cavite province will be included in the case against Chinese President Xi Jinping before the International Criminal Court, one of its petitioners said Thursday.

The case accuses Xi and other Chinese leaders of “crimes against humanity” in the West Philippine Sea, where Beijing has stepped up militarization and island-building activities. 

“In our, what amounts as, motion for reconsideration, we are impleading the executives of the Chinese construction company for having been instrumental in the building of artificial islands,” said former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales. 

Morales said she was referring to the CCCC or China Communications Construction Co Ltd. 

President Rodrigo Duterte this month gave the go-signal for the Sangley Airport project, which state-owned CCCC and Lucio Tan's MacroAsia bagged in 2019. 

CCCC is one of 24 firms that the US recently blacklisted for their alleged involvement in Beijing’s militarization projects in the disputed South China Sea. 

The ICC in December junked the communication by Morales and and former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario against Beijing. The court said China is not a state party to the Rome Statute — the treaty that established the ICC.

Morales said their group, which recently tapped the help of Retired Supreme Court justice Antonio, would file their motion for reconsideration this month. 

“We insist that the crimes committed by Xi Jinping et al were committed within Philippine territory and also within the Exclusive Economic Zone,” she said of the appeal. 

Morales said her group remained “very confident” that the case would prosper. 

“Before we filed the communication, we spent days and weeks on end to reflect on our chances … Irrespective of whether there is precedent, we are very confident that we will win this case,” she said. 

https://en.nhandan.org.vn/pictures/item/9103502-harvesting-rice-on-terraced-fields.html?PageSpeed=noscript&_ga=2.180294947.603877790.1600929305-440928314.1600929305

 

 

 

 

Nearly 4,000 hybrid rice varieties grown in China

Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-22 20:22:06|Editor: huaxia

CHENGDU, Sept. 22 (Xinhua) -- Agronomists have planted about 4,000 rice varieties in a hybrid experimental rice base in southwest China's Sichuan Province to acquire the ideal seeds for large-scale plantation.

The hybrid rice science park, which opened in May in the Pidu District in the provincial capital of Chengdu, was named after China's renowned agronomist Yuan Longping. It has 9,087 square meters for the first phase of construction, along with 133.33 hectares of outdoor farmland.

This year, nearly 4,000 rice varieties, each with 50 to 100 stems, have been grown in the one-hectare experimental field, said Kuang Yinglong, breeding department manager of the Chengdu branch of the China National Hybrid Rice R&D Center.

The rice seeds will be obtained roughly 20 days after pollination, and the seeds will be grown in November in Sanya, Hainan Province. The harvesting conditions can be observed next March, said Kuang.

He said researchers will further hybridize those with better characters to get the ideal varieties that are genetically stable.

"Only one-thousandth of the varieties planted every year may finally become rice seeds, which can enter the market for farming only if they are examined and approved by authorities," he said.

Tuesday marked the Chinese farmers' harvest festival. Enditem

 

 

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-09/22/c_139388143.htm#:~:text=CHENGDU%2C%20Sept.%2022%20(Xinhua,seeds%20for%20large%2Dscale%20plantation.

 

Rice Farmers May Someday be Fish Farmers, as Well.

Date:  Tue, 09/22/2020    Broadcast: 02

Remark:  Fish and rice are foods that often are served together. Soon there may be another reason to connect rice with fish. Gary Crawford has more. 


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. Paul Buttner with the California Rice Commission. Jacob Katz with California Trout. Plus the Three Stooges.

Duration:  00:03:00.114

Author:  GCRAWFOR

MP3

https://www.usda.gov/media/radio/weekly-features/2020-09-22/rice-farmers-may-someday-be-fish-farmers-well


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