Posted on : 05-03-2009 | By : grace
The Dupont which is the world’s second largest chemical company in terms of market capitalization and fourth in revenue is now a partner of International Rice Research Institute or IRRI. IRRI is a non-profit agricultural research and training organization with offices in more than ten nations. Its main goal is to find sustainable ways to improve the well being of present and future generations of poor rice farmers and consumers while at the same time protecting the natural environment. There main headquarters are built in the Philippines. The partnership of the Dupont and IRRI are announced March 3 2009 to boost the rice yields.
“This innovative and novel partnership will enable the leading public research institution in rice breeding and genetics to collaborate with the global leader in advanced plant genetics, breeding and product development to increase global rice productivity,” said Bill Niebur, vice president of DuPont Crop Genetics Research and Development.
Mr. Niebur states that the partnership with IRRI is to strengthen and accelerated hybrid rice breeding efforts. They will enhance the commercialization of the yielding hybrids in Asia to help meet the global demand.
The goal of this collaboration is to increase the rate of yield gains and boost the quality and diversity of hybrid rice. Collaborating scientist will further develop hybrids with better resistance to brown planthopper a key insect pest. The aspects of this work will be shared publicity and will contribute to making better advanced breeding lines and hybrids available to rice breeders and farmers in Asia.
The project will complement the IRRI-led Hybrid Rice Research and Development Consortium.
“Yield growth rates have slowed to less than 1 percent per year since 2000.
“If this trend isn’t reversed soon, future rice supplies will tighten and prices will rise,” said Achim Dobermann, IRRI deputy director general for research.
“A turnaround can only come through accelerated investment in rice research, including innovative, public-private sector partnerships such as this one between IRRI and DuPont.
The new program establishes a scholarship program to support continued interest in agriculture research. The Dupot business Pioneer Hi-Bred will fund a doctorate scholarship to educate a new generation of highly qualified rice scientist for the public and private sectors in Asia.
