ICAR’s New Hyderabad Facility Aims to Fast-Track Next-Generation Rice Varieties

In a major boost to India’s agricultural research and food security efforts, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has launched a state-of-the-art Speed Breeding Facility at the ICAR–Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR) in Hyderabad. The new centre, built with an investment of ₹12 crore , is expected to significantly reduce the time required to develop new rice varieties capable of withstanding climate challenges while improving crop productivity.

The facility was inaugurated by ICAR Director General Dr. Mangi Lal Jat , who also opened a modern seed storage warehouse constructed at a cost of ₹1.6 crore . Scientists and officials described the twin projects as important additions to India’s growing push for technology-driven and climate-smart agriculture .

Traditionally, developing a new rice variety can take close to a decade due to seasonal crop cycles and long testing periods. However, the newly launched speed breeding system uses controlled environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and artificial lighting to accelerate plant growth. This enables researchers to grow multiple crop generations within a single year, drastically shortening the breeding cycle.

According to researchers, the facility will help scientists develop high-yielding, drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and nutrient-rich rice varieties at a much faster pace. The initiative comes at a time when Indian agriculture is increasingly facing the impact of climate change , including irregular rainfall, rising temperatures, and water shortages affecting paddy cultivation across several states.

Officials said the modern seed warehouse will further strengthen the agricultural ecosystem by ensuring scientific storage of seeds and maintaining their germination quality. The facility is expected to improve the timely supply of quality seeds to farmers and support the country’s broader food security goals.

Addressing scientists and staff during the inauguration, Dr. Mangi Lal Jat said achieving the vision of “Viksit Bharat” would require a strong and innovation-led agricultural sector. He stressed the need for continuous research focused on climate-resilient and nutritionally superior rice varieties that can meet future farming challenges.

The programme was attended by ICAR Deputy Director General D.K. Yadav , IIRR Director R.M. Sundaram , scientists, technical experts, and administrative staff. During his interaction with researchers, Jat highlighted the critical role of rice research in safeguarding India’s long-term food and nutritional security.