16th August, 2021 Daily Global Regional Local Rice E-Newsletter

Daily Global, Regional & Local Rice E-Newsletter
16 August ,2021 Vol 6 Issue 08
1|www.ricepluss.com , www.riceplusmagazine.blosgspot.com
www.riceplusmagazine.blogspot.com
mujahid.riceplus@gmail.com 92 321 3692874
Editorial Board Rice News Headlines…

Chief Editor
 KMML farms yield bountiful harvest
 Hamlik
 DOST develops model for PH agri waste-based biorefinery
Managing Editor  Division of Agriculture appoints Alton B. Johnson director of
 Abdul Sattar Shah Rice Research and Extension Center
 Rahmat Ullah
 Philippines Golden Rice price pledge: GM variant to boost
 Rozeen Shaukat
vitamin A levels will be commercially ‘competitive’ by 2023
English Editor  ECOWAS to rake $43.5m from members for rice production
 Maryam Editor  What Independent India must do at 75: Focus of economic
 Legal Advisor
policy must be towards quality education, skills & agri reforms
 Advocate Zaheer Minhas
 Akufo-Addo promises Bono East Region new university
Editorial Associates  Scientists have refuted one of the most popular myths about
 Admiral (R) Hamid Khalid weight loss
 Javed Islam Agha
 Fears grow as rice sowing surpasses target
 Zahid Baig(Business Recorder)
 Dr.Akhtar Hussain  Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's
 Dr.Fayyaz Ahmad Siddiqui potential, says PM Modi
 Dr.Abdul Rasheed (UAF)  Soon on catwalk: clothes made from agricultural waste
 Islam Akhtar Khan
 Fast carbs' DON'T make you fat! High-GI foods like white bread
Editorial Advisory Board are no more likely to cause weight gain than low-GI grub such
 Dr.Malik Mohammad Hashim as whole grains, study finds
Assistant Professor, Gomal  Why mandatory fortification of rice is ineffective against
University DIK
malnutrition
 Dr.Hasina Gul
Assistant Director, Agriculture KPK
 Dr.Hidayat Ullah
Assistant Professor, University
of Swabi
 Dr.Abdul Basir
Assistant Professor, University of
Swabi
 Zahid Mehmood
PSO,NIFA Peshawar
 Falak Naz Shah
Head Food Science & Technology
ART, Peshawar
KMML farms yield bountiful harvest

STAFF REPORTER
KOLLAM, AUGUST 15, 2021 23:14 IST
Part of State government project
The vegetable farms of Kerala Minerals and Metals Ltd (KMML) has once again
yielded a bountiful harvest.
Cultivated as part of State government‘s ‗Onathinu Oru Muram Pachakkari‘ project, the
vegetables along with ‗onapudavas‘ were distributed among 17 underprivileged
families from Chavara panchayat.
Green chilly, string beans, okra, eggplant, yam, snake gourd, bitter gourd, cucumber,
pumpkin, ash gourd and banana were among the crops that were harvested.
KMML managing director J.Chandrabose inaugurated the harvest and farmers from
KMML, Balakrishnan and Prashanthan, were honoured on the occasion.
―We are happy to successfully implement this project launched by the State
government to achieve self-sufficiency in food production. We are planning to expand
farming to more areas,‖ he said.
KMML general manager V.Ajayakrishnan, agriculture nodal officer A.M.Siyad, PRO

P.K.Shabir and trade union representatives were also present on the occasion.
KMML had started organic farming in connection with Subhiksha Keralam, the
comprehensive food security programme of the State government.
During last year the company had brought out rice and turmeric under its own brand
Talir.
Along with integrated paddy farming, tubers and vegetables were cultivated in 7.5 acres
of fallow land.
Onam, a rice variety developed by Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station,

was cultivated and hybrid marigolds were planted as trap crops following
agroecological engineering method.
Aquaculture is also part of the project and at present the fish farm is providing a steady
yield.
While a miyawaki orchard was planted recently, a herb garden is expected to come up
shortly.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kmml-farms-yield-bountiful-harvest/article35930198.ece
DOST develops model for PH agri waste-based

biorefinery
Published August 15, 2021, 11:33 AM
by Charissa Luci-Atienza
A model for designing the country‘s agricultural waste-based integrated biorefinery (IBR)
has been developed under a research project funded by the Department of Science and
Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP).
(DOST-NRCP)
The DOST-NRCP said the research team, led by its member Michael Francis D. Benjamin
developed a P-Graph (process graph) based Model for designing Philippine agricultural
waste-based integrated biorefinery.
―Benjamin and team were able to develop sustainable designs, using input-output
modelling, of a biomass-based integrated biorefinery or IBR where the country may achieve
such eventual benefits,‖ it said in a statement.
The Council explained that an IBR refers to an integrated biomass processing plant or
facility that produces several bioenergy products such as bioethanol, biodiesel, biofertilizer,
and electricity using raw materials from rice production byproducts.―Generally, IBRs
decrease carbon emissions by avoiding uncontrolled and open burning of agricultural waste
in the countryside, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, decrease the need for raw material as
inputs, and produce various low carbon fuels,‖ it said.
The DOST-NRCP noted that the P-graph based method is applied to generate optimal and
near-optimal IBR configurations utilizing the country‘s agricultural waste as feedstock to
maximize profitability.
(DOST-NRCP)
Benjamin‘s team initially created the P-graph framework to address process network
synthesis (PNS), but they decided to extend its use beyond the PNS domain (i.e., integrated
systems).
The P-graph software also presents the results in a graphical interface, a distinct advantage
compared to other optimization techniques, the Council said.
―With the increasing demand and declining supply for fossil fuels globally, NRCP
researchers saw the need for alternative fuels that are both renewable and sustainable. Given
the estimated amount of biomass derived from agricultural waste or residue in the
Philippines which is about 60 Metric ton/year or 400 Petajoule/year of energy, the
utilization of bioenergy is essential in order to increase global energy security and mitigate
the effects of climate risks via reduction of greenhouse gas emissions,‖ it said.
The DOST-NRCP study used rice straw, rice husk, and rice bran which are proven to
contribute to sustainable energy generation in the country since its residues can generate
biomass, a clean energy,
The P-Graph based model, using rice production waste, was able to show the results for
optimal configuration of the IBR and the maximum profit to be generated, the Council said.
It said the local government units (LGUs) may use the results of the study in creating
policies to maximize bioenergy production and increase the revenue generation of farmers.
―The results of this study will help in developing strategies to meet energy requirements of a
certain locality through the utilization of available agricultural waste. According to
researchers, there is likewise a potential for job generation and increased inco me for farmers
resulting from sales of biomass,‖ the DOST-NRCP said.
https://mb.com.ph/2021/08/15/dost-develops-model-for-ph-agri-waste-based-biorefinery/
Division of Agriculture appoints Alton B. Johnson

director of Rice Research and Extension Center
Aug. 16, 2021

Dr. Alton B. Johnson has been named director of the U of A System Division of Agriculture's
Rice Research and Extension Center near Stuttgart.
STUTTGART, Ark. — Coming to Arkansas as the new director of the Rice Research and
Extension Center, Alton B. Johnson said, is like coming home.
After receiving a bachelor's degree in general agriculture from the University of Liberia in his
native country, Johnson came to the United States in his mid-20s to earn a master's degree in
agronomy from Mississippi State University. But he counts his career as beginning with a
doctorate in agronomy from the U of A, where he spent a lot of time working with U of A
System Division of Agriculture scientists.
"I was introduced to Arkansas research at the Rice Research and Extension Center, and did a lot
of my doctoral research at the cotton station (now the Lon Mann Cotton Research Station) at
Marianna," Johnson said.
"It's like a calling for me, and I'm very, very excited," Johnson said.
"We are pleased to have Dr. Alton Johnson on board to lead our efforts at the Rice Research and
Extension Center. He comes to us with broad experience in administration, research and
extension through two 1890 land grant universities as well as his international academic
background," said Mark Cochran, vice president-agriculture for the U of A System.
"He understands the challenges and complexities of agriculture and the critical mission we serve
for our stakeholders," Cochran said. "All of those qualities are essential to lead a station whose
work is important to our state, which is the nation's top rice producer."
"We expect that Dr. Johnson will work closely with Dr. Tim Burcham, the director of the
Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center, and these two will provide exemplary leadership
from the centers so that the division can conduct the research and extension programs so critical
for the rice and soybean industries."
Jean-François Meullenet, senior associate vice president and director of the Arkansas
Agricultural Experiment Station, the research arm of the Division of Agriculture, said, "Dr.
Johnson's commitment to research that benefits the people of our state is a perfect fit for the
mission of the Rice Research and Extension Center.
"Alton's career began here with his doctoral research, and his wife, Stephanie, is a native of
Ashley County, so this is like coming home for him," Meullenet said. "And we are pleased to
have him back."
Bob Scott, who previously held the post at RREC before being named director of the
Cooperative Extension Service last year, said, "Dr. Johnson earned his Ph.D. in agronomy at
Fayetteville, so he knows Arkansas agriculture. He will bring a very broad mix of experience
in agricultural research and administration to the center, and we are pleased he has accepted this
leadership role."
"Arkansas is the top rice producer in the United States, and the research at the Stuttgart center is
crucial to providing Arkansas growers with the most up-to-date research-based information,"
Scott said.
Vision
Johnson said he wants to support the division's rice breeders and researchers and work with the
scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dale Bumpers National Rice Research Station,
located on the RREC campus, to make sure Arkansas keeps its place as the nation's leading rice
producer and exporter.
"My vision is to do all that we can to enhance economic opportunities and improve the health
and wellbeing of the people of Arkansas," Johnson said. "I want to sustain the center's tradition
of developing new varieties, value-added products and services for Arkansas rice growers."
Johnson said he wants to join efforts with the division's new Northeast Rice Research and
Extension Center and other Division of Agriculture departments to build a comprehensive group
that investigates, develops and extends technology and information, and develop new markets. "I
call it the Arkansas rice team," he said.
Experience
Johnson comes to the Division of Agriculture from Central State University in Ohio, where he
was a professor of water resources management and dean of the College of Engineering, Science,
Technology and Agriculture. While there, he was also director of University Land Grant
Programs, which included roles as director of Agricultural Research and Development and
administrator of the Cooperative Extension Service.
Before going to Central State University, Johnson served as dean of the College of Agriculture
and Human Sciences, research director and extension administrator at Prairie View A&M
University in Texas. Before that, he was interim assistant dean of research in the School of
Agriculture, Research, Extension and Applied Sciences and chief research officer at Alcorn State
University in Lorman, Mississippi.
During his 16-year career at Alcorn State University, he also served as interim research director,
president of the Faculty Assembly, chair of the University Athletics Committee and faculty
athletics representative. Johnson worked in the president's office as co-chair of the transition
team for the 17th president of Alcorn State University and as his adviser on land-grant issues. He
10 | w w w . r i c e p l u s s . c o m , w w w . r i c e p l u s m a g a z i n e . b l o s g s p o t . c o m
also served as director of the Mississippi River Research Center that conducted research and
public service activities to aid in improving water resources in Mississippi.
Over his career since 1994, Johnson conducted research and/or taught courses related to soils,
sustainable agriculture, community agriculture, soil physics, soil conservation and land use,
environmental science, microclimatology and many other disciplines.
Coming Home
Johnson said he has known many of the U of A System Division of Agriculture administrators
for many years through professional organizations and activities. "I've known and respected them
for years," he said.
Johnson and his wife, the former Stephanie Williams of Crossett, have five daughters and one
son, most of them grown.
After completing his Ph.D. in 1992, Johnson served a post-doctoral post in Fayetteville, funded
by the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board, and a brief stint as a research associate at the
University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff, before taking his first post at Alcorn State University in
1994.
"This is where my career started," Johnson said. "It's like coming home for me."
To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural
Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter at @ArkAgResearch.
To learn about Extension Programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension
Service agent or visit https://uaex.uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter at @AR_Extension.
To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter
at @AgInArk.
About the Division of Agriculture

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture's mission is to strengthen
agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best
practices. Through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service,
the Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation's historic
land grant education system.
The Division of Agriculture is one of 20 entities within the University of Arkansas System. It has
offices in all 75 counties in Arkansas and faculty on five system campuses.
The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research
programs and services without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation,
national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any
other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
https://news.uark.edu/articles/57341/division-of-agriculture-appoints-alton-b-johnson-director-of-rice-
research-and-extension-center
Philippines Golden Rice price pledge: GM variant to

boost vitamin A levels will be commercially
‘competitive’ by 2023
By Pearly Neo
16-Aug-2021 - Last updated on 16-Aug-2021 at 01:44 GMT
Golden Rice will be priced ‘very competitively’ once it hits the market in the Philippines in 2023. ©Getty
Images
Golden Rice will be priced ‗very competitively‘ once it hits the market in the Philippines in
2023, after the country recently granted a world-first regulatory approval for commercial
propagation.
Golden Rice is rice which has been genetically-modified to include genes that increase beta-
carotene content, a pigment that converts into Vitamin A in the body, and is hoped to help reduce
Vitamin A deficiency.
This deployment process will be led by the government-run Department of Agriculture-

Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice), and is still in the initial stages of multiplying
and bulking up seed supply.
“Golden Rice will not be available to all interested parties right away – we need to undergo a
pilot scale deployment process for this first, and have put in place a stewardship protocol that
will be very strict at first to ensure the purity and integrity of the rice seeds,” DA-PhilRice
Healthier Rice Project Lead Dr. Reynante L. Ordonio told FoodNavigator-Asia.
“The aim of this project is to gather the experience we need on deployment and will proceed up
to 2023 – by then, we will also have more seeds on hand and will be able to distribute this to
farmers to plant on their own.
“The project will first be focused on seven target provinces that are known to have high
malnutrition rate – two in Luzon, three in Visayas, and two in Mindanao – and by 2023 there
will definitely be milled rice available for consumption in these sites, then beyond that we will
also move this rice to be available for the wider Philippines market and consumers.”
When asked whether consumers can expect higher prices for Golden Rice as compared to regular
rice variants, Dr Ordonio said that this was unlikely.
“Golden Rice is an inbred rice variety, where seeds can be harvested from the plant and used for
succeeding planting season after season, so it will be like other conventional rice plants. Plus,
the inputs used such as any pesticides or fertilisers will also be the same as what farmers are
currently using – so from a cost point of view, I think its prices in the market will be very
competitive once released,” he said.
“By 2023 when the pilot deployment has ended, there will also be more seeds in hand so it is
available for more people. Right now we are still identifying the right market base and
commercial approaches to best reach our target communities, whether this be a market-driven
approach or a more programme-based approach piggybacking on other government initiatives.”
The Philippines is the first country in the world to give the final biosafety approval to Golden
Rice, which has already obtained the food safety nod from other regulatory agencies such as
Food Standards Australia New Zealand, Health Canada, and the United States Food and Drug
Administration, all in 2018.
At present, only 20% of Filipino households meet the estimated average requirement (EAR) for
vitamin A intake in their daily diet – children aged six months to five years are the group most at
risk of vitamin A insufficiency in the country.
Studies have shown that one cup of cooked Golden Rice contains enough beta-carotene to meet
up to 30-50% of the estimated average requirement of vitamin A for this high-risk group.
Potential challenges
Golden Rice has long been the target of farmer-led groups and anti-GM groups protesting this
for issues from food safety to ‗rice imperialism‘ by big food corporations. Protests have been
longstanding and widespread, and it is unlikely these groups will be standing back silently
following this approval, though no actions have been announced as of yet.
“We are aware that the challenges are not over, and we acknowledge the opposition, but what
we are trying to do here is to give the public better access to nutrition and help prevent Vitamin
A deficiency in the country,” said Dr Ordonio.
“What we are most worried about is the possibility of a legal challenge from these NGOs – it is
not something we can control, but we are confident that we have gone through all the steps in the
Philippines’ strict regulatory process and have been very transparent, [and the decision was
based on] science-based evidence.
“We are planning strategic communications to the public about the benefits of Golden Rice and
working with our key stakeholders to disseminate this.
Where and what’s next
Dr Ordonio is also very confident that Bangladesh will be the next country following the
Philippines to plant Golden Rice commercially.
“Bangladesh is in the final regulatory stages for this right now, and I definitely think it will be
the next country to do this,” he said.
“We also hope that this success here in the Philippines will help to influence the regulatory
process and strengthen regulators’ confidence over there to push through with the process.”
In addition to the pilot deployment, independent nutrition studies will also be done to assess the
nutritional impacts on Golden Rice on the population and ensure these are met, as well as
involve the public in doing sensory evaluation studies.
Copyright - Unless otherwise stated all contents of this web site are © 2021 - William Reed
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https://www.foodnavigator-asia.com/Article/2021/08/16/Philippines-Golden-Rice-price-
pledge-GM-variant-to-boost-vitamin-A-levels-will-be-commerc
ECOWAS to rake $43.5m from members for rice

production
By Joke Falaju, Abuja
15 August 2021 | 3:10 am
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has disclosed that the region requires
about $43.5m to achieve uniform self-sufficiency in rice production in the region by 2025.
Currently, total domestic production in the region covers only 60 per cent of the population, and
with the three per cent consumption growth rate yearly, it is estimated that demand for rice in the
region would be about 24 million metric tonnes by 2025.
To achieve self-sufficiency in rice production in West Africa, the ECOWAS Commission and
partners had announced a new Regional Action Plan to implement its rice policy, commonly
known as the ―Rice Offensive.‖
The goal set by the ―Regional Rice Offensive‖ of ECOWAS member states is to produce 24
million tonnes of milled rice, projected to be consumed in the region, by 2025. The entire
programme was estimated to gulp $500m. However, about $43.5m would be required to
implement strategic action, as highlighted in the action plan.
ECOWAS Commissioner of Agriculture, Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Sekou
Sangare, at a press conference in Abuja, disclosed that the Economic Community of West Africa
Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP) donor roundtable would follow to mobilise required resources to
implement the action plan.
According to him, producing enough rice to feed the region would require concerted effort and an
effectively coordinated synergy of actions from all rice stakeholders in the region, to achieve the desired
outcome.
While acknowledging efforts countries like Nigeria and others are making in attaining self-
sufficiency in rice production, he said the aim was to ensure the attainment of self-sufficiency by
all countries in the region by 2025. He, however, stressed the need for knowledge sharing among
members.
Director of Agriculture and Rural Development at the ECOWAS Commission, Alain Traore,
lamented that ―West Africa currently depends on imports to meet expanding demand. Not only
does this deplete the scarce foreign reserves of countries, but it also undermines indigenous
capabilities in the production of rice and its value chain.‖
He said rice yield growth rate of 1.03 per cent per annum does not match the population growth
rate of 2.73 per cent. The deficit in the rice supply chain has been met through massive imports
from primarily Asian countries.
Head of Agriculture Division of ECOWAS, Mr. Ernest Aubee, said if member states could grow
rice and eat what they grow, there would be no need to spend millions of dollars yearly on the
importation of rice from Asia.
―And the quality of some of these imported rice is not better than what we produce in West
Africa. So, we should encourage consumption of what we produce…‖
https://guardian.ng/news/ecowas-to-rake-43-5m-from-members-for-rice-production/
What Independent India must do at 75: Focus of

economic policy must be towards quality education,
skills & agri reforms
We need to implement the agri-reforms that are pending; the success of its agri-reforms
helped China make non-agri reforms palatable to its citizens
 August 16, 2021 5:00 AM
Remember, China‘s reforms started with agriculture, and India, till date, has been avoiding
reforming its agriculture.
By Ashok Gulati & Ritika Juneja
As Indians, we feel proud of our Independence on every day of the year. After centuries of
subjugation, when India finally breathed freedom on August 15, 1947, our leaders pledged to
make our own destiny. We have achieved several milestones, from reducing poverty to
improving literacy to life expectancy and modernising the economy with technologies ranging
from space to digital. One of the most important, perhaps, was the technology that enabled India
to feed its population during mid-1960s, namely the ‗miracle seeds‘ that unleashed the Green
Revolution. Though these seeds of change came from outside, they were adapted well to the
local climatic conditions by Indian scientists, and by now, India has emerged as the world‘s
largest rice exporter and also the government kitty of grains is overflowing, exceeding 100
million tonnes.
Looking back on our own journey, we feel proud of our achievements, but wisdom lies in also
looking at how other nations have performed, those who started with a similar base or even
worse conditions. And, if some have done better than us, we should not hesitate to learn from
them.
Let us begin with our neighbours, who were very much a part of India in pre-Independence era,
Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is gratifying to see that independent India has certainly done better
than Pakistan, if measured in per capita income at least. As per the IMF, India‘s per capita
income was $1,960 (and $6,460 in current PPP terms) in 2020, while Pakistan‘s per capita
income was just $1,260 ($5,150 in PPP). But Bangladesh, whose independent journey started in
1971, had per capita income of $2,000, which was marginally higher than even India, and
certainly much higher than Pakistan in 2020.
However, the comparison of India, should actually be with China, given their population size and
that both countries started their journey in late 1940s and adopted socialist/communist strategies
to give their masses food, good health, education, and prosperity. It is ironic to note that China,
during the peak of its communist era (The Great Leap Forward, 1958-61) lost 30 million lives to
starvation. India, on the other hand, managed to escape such horror with support from the US
through PL 480.
However, China, after the lacklustre economic performance during 1949-1977, switched gears
towards market-oriented policies, starting with agriculture. From Household Responsibility
System to liberating agri-markets, economic reforms in China gave agri-GDP growth of 7.1%
during 1978-1984, and farmer‘s real incomes increased by almost 14% per annum during the
same period. This gave political legitimacy to carry out reforms in the non-agricultural sector
and also created demand for manufactured products, triggering manufacturing revolution in
China‘s Town and Village Enterprises. The rest is history.
By 2020, China‘s overall GDP was $14.7 trillion ($24.1 trillion in PPP), competing with the US
at $20.9 trillion. India, however, lags way behind with overall GDP at $2.7 trillion ($8.9 trillion
in PPP). The quality of life, however, depends on per capita income in PPP terms, with the US at
$63,420, China at $17,190 and India at $6,460. No wonder, it is even reflected in China‘s rise as
a sporting nation in the recently-concluded Tokyo Olympics. China has won the second-highest
number of medals—88 (38 Gold) after the US‘s 113 medals (39 Gold). And, India lags at the
48th position with a total of 7 medals (1 Gold).
India‘s relatively sluggish performance raise doubts about its flawed democratic structure that
makes economic reforms and policy implementation more challenging, unlike China.
The first lesson to learn for India@75: It will take decades to catch up to the US standards, but if
we target Chinese standards over the next decade or two, perhaps India can do better. Remember,
China‘s reforms started with agriculture, and India, till date, has been avoiding reforming its
agriculture. For manufacturing sector to grow sustainably, we have to increase the purchasing
power of rural people, which has to be done by raising their productivity and not by distributing
freebies. It requires investments in education, skills, health and physical infrastructure, besides
R&D in agriculture, both by the government and the private sector. Liberating agri-markets is a
part of this reform package that China followed.
The second is a bit controversial: China adopted the one-child norm from 1979-2015. As a result,
their per capita income grew much faster. India‘s attempts to control its population succeeded
only partially and very slowly. Poor education, especially of the girl child, is still at the core of
this failure. Enforcement of measures like sterilisation (vasectomy), as tried by Sanjay Gandhi
earlier, may boomerang politically. In that context, UP‘s bill on population control (2021) has
attracted much controversy. But, given that UP‘s average family size is six —the largest in the
country (2011 census), compared to just three in China, poses a large challenge to increase their
incomes. We feel the focus of economic policy has to be towards quality education, skills, and
agricultural reforms. Can India do it? Only time will tell.
Gulati is Infosys Chair professor, and Juneja is consultant, ICRIER
https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/what-independent-india-must-do-at-75-focus-of-economic-
policy-must-be-towards-quality-education-skills-agri-reforms/2311354/lite/
Akufo-Addo promises Bono East Region new

university
By Richard Kofi Boahen
TEN AUG 15, 202The Bono East region has been assured of a new public university that would focus
mainly on science and technology with particular emphasis on health care delivery and agriculture.
During his recent tour of the Bono East region, President Akufo-Addo assured the chiefs and
people of the area that plans are far advanced for work on the proposed public university to take-
off.
At a meeting with the Nkoranza Traditional Council at Nkoranza, President Akufo-Addo said the
Regional Minister, Kwasi Adu-Gyan had already undertaken some preparatory works on the said
project and added that accreditation needed for the smooth take-off of the university would soon
be granted.
Background
The Bono East Regional Minister Kwasi Adu-Gyan, upon his assumption of office, put up a
team to work towards the establishment of the university to better take care of the health of the
people and also make the region the best destination for agribusiness especially as the raw
material hub for feeding the various agro-processing industries.
When it takes off, the Bono East University would be one of the greatest legacies of the Akufo-
Addo led administration so far as the people of the area are concerned.
Rice production hub
President Akufo-Addo also observed that the region abound in large and fertile lands for
commercial production of rice for processing for both the local and foreign markets.
He added his voice to his Agric Minister‘s proposal to develop the region into a rice production
hub in the country, saying every effort must be made to achieve this target to create employment
opportunities and also provide a sustainable source of income for the people.
The Bono East Region has about 32,236 hectares of rice valleys supported by agro-ecological
conditions suitable for commercial rice production. If fully developed the region can produce
about 161,000 tons of rice annually to reduce rice importation.
The development of commercial rice production and all related value chain activities in the
region is estimated to provide about 3,000 direct jobs to the youth in areas such as commercial
and small holder rice production, rice milling and service provisions including input supplies,
machinery, and marketing.
Brong Ahafo Regional Contributor

https://www.modernghana.com/news/1098163/akufo-addo-promises-bono-east-region-new-universit.html
Scientists have refuted one of the most popular myths

about weight loss
BY STEVE COWAN AUGUST 15, 2021 10:06 AM UTC
FACT CHECKED
Scientists from the University of Arizona (USA) have ruled out a link between the use of fast
carbohydrates and a set of extra pounds. The study is published in the journal Advances in
Nutrition.
According to the authors of the work, foods with a high glycemic index (fast carbohydrates) do
not affect a person‘s weight. Fast carbohydrates include, for example, dates, white bread and
rice, honey, potatoes, low-red beans, vegetables, and wild rice.
Experts analyzed statistical data and compared the body mass index of almost two million
people. It turned out that people who eat substances with a high glycemic index are not prone to
fullness, and with the right ratio, fast carbohydrates help maintain a healthy weight and reduce
the risk of various diseases.
The researchers recommended following a balanced diet with a wide diet of carbohydrates,
especially whole grains. ―Eating a wide range of carbohydrates from white bread with fast
carbohydrates to cereals, their reasonable combination is good for health,‖ they noted.
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https://freenews.live/scientists-have-refuted-one-of-the-most-popular-myths-about-weight-loss/
Fears grow as rice sowing surpasses target

Ahmad Fraz Khan
Published August 15, 2021
Workers transplanting rice seedlings in a field in this file photo. — Dawn
LAHORE: Punjab has transplanted rice on six million acres so far, against its
target of five million for the current season and the process may continue for
another week to improve the tally.
According to the Punjab Crop Reporting Service, fresh figures show that rice transplantation has
beaten its previous year‘s record of 5.9 million acres.
They also fear that it may be the hybrid variety that is expanding at a breathtaking pace.
The agriculture authorities were expecting an increase in acreage, but were of the opinion that it
may not go near, let alone beyond, last year‘s figures because sugarcane has claimed almost
300,000 acres more than last year; 3.1 million acres this year against 2.8 million last year.
Hybrid rice is replacing traditional basmati, which has been Pakistan’s premium export
However, cotton loss seems to have worked in the favour of rice. ―In fact, cotton lost almost
900,000 acres this year,‖ explains an official of the crop reporting service. Its target was four
million acres but it stopped at 3.1 million acres against all expectations.
The department did expect a loss, but certainly not to such an extent; almost 25 per cent. This
acreage seems to have gone in favour of mainly rice and, to some extent, sugarcane.
The estimates about rice would be clarified by the last week of this month when the crop
reporting service would firm up its final survey of transplantation, the official suggests.
―This rice expansion at neck-breaking speed generates a few fears,‖ explains Raja Lutfullah
Khan, a grower on the outskirts of Gujranwala. Firstly, hybrid rice is replacing traditional
basmati, which has been Pakistan‘s premium export. Dozens of countries around the world
produce hybrid rice but basmati is a Pakistan specialty. Pakistan has been fighting international
legal battles to save this heritage and prove its sole proprietorship.
Now, this variety is being threatened within the country. The hybrid varieties have already
expanded to 15 to 20pc area and are claiming more every passing year. Can Pakistan afford to
compromise on basmati for the sake of hybrid rice? This is a policy question that needs to be
answered before further damage, the grower maintains.
On the second plank, where would water come from for this guzzler? Rice area even in 2016-17
was 4.29 million acres, which has now jumped to six million; an expansion of almost 40pc.
Till 2016-17, Pakistan was sparing almost 30 million acre feet water for rice maturity. Can it
now afford to increase the corresponding 40pc water consumption?
In fact, that may already be under way but is going unregistered because additional water may be
coming from subsoil reservoir. But can it be left unchecked, and for how long?
Pakistan should contextualise changes in cropping patterns because they would have a long-term
impact on the rest of the crop cycle and the future of the country, Lutfullah pleads, adding that
―many hugely water-dependent crops — sugarcane and rice being two prime examples — are
creeping in unnoticed, or at least unstudied for their long-term effects on the country‘s future.
This is a scary scenario.‖
Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2021
https://www.dawn.com/news/1640739/fears-grow-as-rice-sowing-surpasses-target
Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's

potential, says PM Modi
New Delhi Published: Aug 15, 2021, 07:25 AM(IST)
PM Modi speaks at the Red Fort during India's Independence Day Photograph:( AFP )
FOLLOW US
.
Prime Minister Modi on the occasion of Independence Day said this is a day to remember our
great freedom fighters.
The Indian prime minister hosted the national flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort. The
celebrations this year has been scaled down due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Independence Day Special: 15th August: Nations who share their Independence Day with India
PM Modi expressed his gratitude towards the health workers including doctors, nurses,
paramedical staff, sanitation workers, scientists who were developed the vaccines.
"The athletes who have made us proud at Tokyo Olympics are here today. I urge the nation to
applaud their achievement today," the PM said.
"They have not only won our hearts but also inspired future generations," the Indian prime
minister added.
Independence Day Special: From humble beginnings, the nation made strides in science and
technology
"Indians have fought COVID-19 with a lot of patience. We had many challenges but we worked
with extraordinary pace in every area," the PM said.
"It's a result of the strength of our industrialists and scientists, that today India doesn't need to
depend on any other nation for vaccines," the PM added.
The Indian prime minister said August 14 will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance
Day to honour the pain and sufferings faced by the people of India during the partition.
"The resolution is incomplete until the determination is not accompanied by the culmination of
hard work and valour. That is why we have to fulfil all our resolutions by doing hard work and
culmination of valour."
"Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayaas is very important for the
achievement of all our goals, the PM said.
"To take India to new heights in the 21st century, it is necessary to make full use of India's
potential."
"For this, we have to do hand-holding of the square which is behind, the area which is behind,"
PM Modi said.
"The small farmer becomes the pride of the country, this is our dream," the PM said, adding, "In
the coming years, we will have to increase the collective power of the small farmers of the
country. They have to be provided new facilities."
The government will fortify rice which it gives to the poor under its different schemes, will give
nutritious rice to the poor," the PM said while stating that "whether it is rice available at ration
shop, rice available in mid-day meal, rice available through every scheme will be fortified by the
year 2024."
The PM emphasised that the country has to work together to ensure the next generation
infrastructure, world-class manufacturing, cutting edge innovation and new-age technology.
The Indian prime minister said a holistic and integrated approach was needed to
develop India's infrastructure.
"Political will is needed for reforms and the world knows that India has now the will to do it,"
the PM asserted."Moving forward on the path of development, India will have to increase both
its manufacturing and exports."
The Indian prime minister said the country recently launched its first indigenous aircraft
carrier INS Vikrant for trials at sea.
"Today India is making its own fighter aircraft, making submarines and also making
Gaganyaan," the PM said.
(With inputs from Agencies)
https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-
says-pm-modi-405470
Soon on catwalk: clothes made from agricultural

waste
What agricultural waste can we use as fibres for the fashion industry? It turns out there are
quite a few. For example, rice straw or banana stems can soon be found in clothing. By
using these raw materials, the textile industry can become more sustainable.
The textile industry needs more sustainable and renewable raw materials to reduce its
current, negative impact on the climate
Paulien Harmsen, Wageningen University & Research
60% of all clothing made from fossil fuels

Today, 60% of all clothing is still made from fibres derived from fossil fuels. That needs to
change. The Laudes Foundation asked Wageningen University & Research (together with
the Institute for Sustainable Communities and the World Resources Institute) to research an
alternative.
They looked at whether there are useful residual streams (waste) in agriculture in South
and Southeast Asia that can be used to produce natural fibres. They also looked at the
technology needed to do this.
The research shows that there are definitely possibilities. For example, waste streams from
rice, maize, bananas, pineapples and sugar cane can be used as raw materials for clothing
fibres.
This research provides a promising glimpse into the first steps towards sustain able textiles
Paulien Harmsen, Wageningen University & Research
So, producing fibres from agricultural waste is possible, but where to start?
The key is to work together. In the research report ―Spinning Future Threads‖, the
researchers have therefore included a roadmap for cooperation and innovation in the
fashion and food industries.
/Public Release. This material comes from the originating organization and may be of a
point-in-time nature, edited for clarity, style and length.
https://www.miragenews.com/soon-on-catwalk-clothes-made-from-agricultural-614131/
Fast carbs' DON'T make you fat! High-GI foods like

white bread are no more likely to cause weight gain
than low-GI grub such as whole grains, study finds
Monday, Aug 16th 2021 5PM 41°C 8PM 32°C 5-Day Forecast
 A study published in the journal Advances In Nutrition concluded that the myth that 'fast carbs' such
as white bread lead to weight gain is just that - a myth
 Data from nearly 2million adults 'revealed no consistent differences in BMI when comparing the
highest with the lowest dietary GI groups'
 GI classified foods based on how they affected blood glucose. Each food was given a number 0 to 100
representing rise in glucose levels 2 hours after eating
 US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committees concurred and 'made no recommendations for using GI
in dietary guidelines'
By SHANNON THALER FOR DAILYMAIL.COM
PUBLISHED: 00:48 BST, 15 August 2021 | UPDATED: 01:17 BST, 15 August 2021
A study published last week in the peer-reviewed journal Advances In Nutrition concluded that
'fast carbs' are no more likely than 'slow carbs' to lead to weight gain.
Fast carbs such as white bread are also known as high-GI foods because of their high glycemic
index.
'High-glycemic index foods have been hypothesized to promote fat storage and increase risk of
obesity,' the study said.
Meanwhile, slow carbs - such as whole grains, vegetables and beans - were thought to be ideal
for weight loss and a healthy diet.
According to the study 'a May 2021 Google search for "fast carbs" produced more than 47,000
results, many of which featured websites that portrayed fast carbs as unhealthier and more
fattening'.
Yet a series of 35 observational studies that collected data from nearly 2 million adults 'revealed no
consistent differences in BMI when comparing the highest with the lowest dietary GI groups'.
A bar chart showed the BMI differences across dietary GI categories. No significant differences were
recorded between study groups that consumed a low-GI diet (dark bars) and a high-GI diet (light bars)
The report published last week in the peer-reviewed journal Advances In Nutrition compiled findings
from a series of other findings and they were all conclusive
It is unknown what the participants' exact diet consisted of during the study but it noted that
assigning an accurate GI value is difficult.
Macronutrient composition and dietary fiber content of the meal as a whole plus fiber, preparation
and time of day the food was eaten come into play.
For example, the study noted a database from the University of Sydney that lists 27 values for
brown rice ranging from 48 to 87. The GI values for white rice ranged from 17 to 94.
The study concluded that the myth that 'fast carbs make you fat' is just that - a myth.
Contrary to popular belief a=a series of 35 observational studies that collected data from nearly 2million
adults 'revealed no consistent differences in BMI when comparing the highest with the lowest dietary GI
groups'
The study concluded that the myth that 'fast carbs make you fat' is just that - a myth. In fact, factors such
as age, genetics, physical activity, insulin sensitivity and BMI had more of an impact on body weight, fat
and waist circumference
It also stated that 'low-GI diets were generally no better than high-GI diets for reducing body
weight or body fat'. The diets also 'did not differ with regard to changes in waist circumference'.
In fact, factors such as age, genetics, physical activity, insulin sensitivity and BMI had more of an
impact on body weight, fat and waist circumference.
The glycemic index was introduced in 1981 as a means to classify foods according to how they
affected blood glucose.
Each food was given a number from 0 to 100 that represented the rise in blood glucose levels two
hours after eating.
The recent study referred to a 2015 scientific consensus statement that 'concluded diets low in GI
were "probably" relevant to the prevention of obesity'. A 2010 US Dietary Guidelines Advisory
Committee said otherwise.
The 2015 and 2020 US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committees concurred and 'made no
recommendations for using GI in dietary guidelines'.
Researchers also cited 'inaccurate reporting' because of the lack of measurements on dietary fiber.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9893963/Fast-carb-foods-like-white-bread-no-likely-cause-
weight-gain-slow-carbs.html
Why mandatory fortification of rice is ineffective against

malnutrition
The Centre believes it is the cure for our malnourished women and children, but many
questions remain
Amarnath K Menon
Hyderabad
August 16, 2021
UPDATED: August 16, 2021 18:31 IST
A worker weighs rice grains as people wait to receive their ration from a government shop
during the nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus in Karad, Maharashtra, on
April 17, 2020; (PTI Photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s announcement in his Independence Day address that fortified
rice would be distributed under the various government schemes--including the public
distribution system (PDS) and the mid-day meal scheme (MMS)--by 2024 addresses a vital
concern. He emphasised that malnutrition is a hurdle in the development of women and children
and food fortification is the answer. But it remains a controversial issue, with many unanswered
questions.
In an ambitious attempt to combat chronic anaemia and under-nutrition, the Union food ministry
is planning to distribute fortified rice through the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS)
and the MMS from 2021-22 with a special focus on 112 ‗aspirational‘ districts. A centrally
sponsored pilot scheme was approved way back in February 2019, and was allocated Rs 174.6
crore for three years. While five states--Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and
Chhattisgarh--were quick off the starting block, the remaining 10 states in the programme took
time in identifying pilot districts for distributing fortified rice.
The Union government, which now believes this is the panacea for malnutrition, has ironed out
the issues in the supply chain in consultation with the NITI Aayog, the Food Safety and
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and non-governmental stake holders including the Tata
Trust, World Food Programme, PATH and Nutrition International.
Fortifying rice involves grinding broken rice into powder, mixing it with nutrients, and then
shaping it into rice-like kernels using an extrusion process. These fortified kernels are then
mixed with normal rice in a 1:100 ratio and distributed for consumption. But the current national
capacity of 15,000 tonnes of rice kernels a year is far from adequate. To cover the PDS,
anganwadis and MMS in at least the 112 aspirational districts, the annual capacity has to be
around 130,000 tonnes. To cover the PDS across the country, at least 350,000 tonnes of fortified
kernels would be needed. The Food Corporation of India has been asked to invest in equipping
rice mills with the blending machines needed to mix the kernels into normal rice.
There are other challenges in meeting the 2024 deadline set by PM Modi. Rice millers will have
to make the immediate investment and the government says it will consider offering loans and
other incentives to create an enabling environment. Some of them are being lured with the
promise of good returns on their investment. Since the fortified kernels look and taste the same
as normal rice grains, there is also an urgent need for quality control testing and monitoring to
ensure consumers are not taken for a ride. FSSAI and the NABL laboratories are exploring
avenues to build capacity for quality testing. The biggest challenge, though, will be creating
awareness about the benefits of fortified foods to ensure uptake.
PM Narendra Modi addressing the nation during the 75th Independence Day function at the Red
Fort in New Delhi, on Aug. 15, 2021; Photo by Kamal Singh/ PTI Photo
Meanwhile, opinion is divided on the efficacy and value of consuming fortified rice. The basic
purpose of food fortification is to improve the nutritional quality and provide public health
benefits to the population with minimal risks. But there is the need to use food additives in
permitted quantities to make it palatable. The technological process also increases costs.
―Mandatory fortification of rice would certainly pose a risk to food safety despite the safeguards
of food laws. The implementation of food safety laws, mainly left to state governments and
Union territories now, will be a big problem since the implementation machinery in many states
is weak,‖ explains international food safety specialist Dr Ramesh V. Bhat. ―Fortification of rice
to combat anaemia and malnutrition is very different from the fortification of salt with iodine
campaign, which was primarily meant to combat goitre in the hill tracts. It later went all-India
with the double fortification of salt.‖
Addition of basic material like ferric pyrophosphate and enhancing compounds like citric acid
and trisodium citrate mixtures to increase iron absorption in a staple food is the most common
form of fortification. Rice is consumed in large quantities as a staple in India and mandatory
fortification will force even the population groups which do not need it into taking additional
food additives.
Advocates of fortification generally take into account only a food of their choice. Instead, total
dietary intake of food from a variety of sources ranging from natural foods to technologically
processed foods (including ready-to-eat food) needs to be taken into account. Also, the interests
of the whole population must be taken into account rather than only the vulnerable segments who
may really be needing only additional minerals and vitamins. A range of natural foods such as
locally available leafy green vegetables and local fruits, like a variety of berries, available
naturally in tribal and rural areas would provide the required nutrients to the local population.
Those against food fortification argue that increasing the availability of such foods and
popularising them through nutrition education would benefit society.
―Food fortification is a good move but it has a long way to go before we see visible results. But it
does send the right signals for a food-based approach to fortification in India. It will happen in
phases beginning with the PDS,‖ emphasises Dr V. Prakash, president, International Union of
Food Science and Technology, and a former director of the Central Food Technology Research
Institute, Mysuru. ―Rice, being a staple food in many parts of India, is consumed in reasonably
good quantity and will provide the needed micronutrients on a daily basis along with the other
foods it is eaten with. This hopefully will be supplemented with enough proteins and other
needed macro and micronutrients." Other analysts point out that fortifying one or two nutrients is
not the solution when the problem of sufficient quality protein to children and convalescent is
still a major concern. Unless all segments are addressed in one go, under-nutrition and
malnutrition will continue.
Several questions raised by those sceptical of food fortification are yet to be answered. These
include: how much fortification will fill the gap?; isn‘t nutrition a daily dose issue; how can it be
treated like a vaccine?; social and cultural practices dictate the extensive washing of pulses and
rice; can that be stopped with fortified rice?; what is the cost of fortification?; how does one
monitor the improvement in health in different segments of the population?; mid-day meals for
children and increasing its nutrition profile of proteins and calories is vital, when will we address
them?
Analysts argue that there is need for extreme caution in implementing food fortification to
address micronutrient deficiencies in India. Attention must even be paid to the consequences of
excess intake when such schemes are offered along with food supplements. A recent study
makes a case for improving dietary diversity instead.
https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/why-mandatory-fortification-of-rice-is-
ineffective-against-malnutrition-1841176-2021-08-16

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Daily Global, Regional & Local Rice E-Newsletter

16 August ,2021 Vol 6 Issue 08

Editorial Board Rice News Headlines…

KMML farms yield bountiful harvest

KOLLAM, AUGUST 15, 2021 23:14 IST

Part of State government project

KMML general manager V.Ajayakrishnan, agriculture nodal officer A.M.Siyad, PRO

Onam, a rice variety developed by Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station,

DOST develops model for PH agri waste-based

Division of Agriculture appoints Alton B. Johnson

Aug. 16, 2021

About the Division of Agriculture

Philippines Golden Rice price pledge: GM variant to

16-Aug-2021 - Last updated on 16-Aug-2021 at 01:44 GMT

This deployment process will be led by the government-run Department of Agriculture-

Where and what’s next

ECOWAS to rake $43.5m from members for rice

15 August 2021 | 3:10 am

What Independent India must do at 75: Focus of

 August 16, 2021 5:00 AM

By Ashok Gulati & Ritika Juneja

Gulati is Infosys Chair professor, and Juneja is consultant, ICRIER

Akufo-Addo promises Bono East Region new

Rice production hub

Brong Ahafo Regional Contributor

Scientists have refuted one of the most popular myths

Fears grow as rice sowing surpasses target

Published August 15, 2021

Workers transplanting rice seedlings in a field in this file photo. — Dawn

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2021

Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's

(With inputs from Agencies)

Soon on catwalk: clothes made from agricultural

60% of all clothing made from fossil fuels

Fast carbs' DON'T make you fat! High-GI foods like

Why mandatory fortification of rice is ineffective against

August 16, 2021

UPDATED: August 16, 2021 18:31 IST

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