The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025 concluded on October 31 in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone for India's agriculture and export sectors. The two-day event, held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, saw the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth Rs 30,435 crore, the launch of a coffee table book on Indian rice, and an awards ceremony recognizing contributions to the rice industry.
MoUs to Boost Rice Sector
The conference facilitated agreements worth over ₹30,000 crore, with a substantial portion facilitated by the government with private companies in Bihar for Geographical Indication (GI) varieties of rice like Katarni rice. These agreements also included deals between Indian rice companies and their counterparts, both domestic and international. The event aimed to tap into the global rice trade, estimated at Rs 1.8 lakh crore. Deals close to Rs 25,000 crore were expected to be signed.
Launch of AI-Based Rice Sorting System and Coffee Table Book
The conference began with the live launch of India's first AI-based rice sorting system, a significant advancement for the agri-processing sector. Additionally, a coffee table book on Indian rice was launched, showcasing the country's rich rice heritage. The Ministry of Cooperation collaborated with the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) for the event and confirmed initiatives including the coffee table book launch and a document outlining the future roadmap of India's rice sector, "Vision & Roadmap for rice sector contribution to Viksit Bharat @2047".
Awards and Recognition
Seventeen Indian farmers were felicitated by international importers for their contributions to India's growing prominence in the global rice trade. Farmers recognized included Anand Malik from West Bengal, for cultivating Govind Bhog rice; Surendra Masti from Odisha, for Kalajeera-Koraput rice; Manjul Pratap Singh and Ajay Singh from Uttar Pradesh, for Type-3 Dehradhuni Basmati; and Zafar Ahmad Bhat from Jammu and Kashmir, for preserving the Mushkbudji variety. VOC Port also received a 'Green Visionary' award, highlighting its commitment to green initiatives.
Focus on Innovation and Sustainability
BIRC 2025 served as a platform where innovation, trade, and sustainability converged. The event showcased advanced machinery and processing solutions designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and quality in rice production. A special Women Entrepreneurs, Startups, and MSME Pavilion highlighted innovation across the agri-value chain, from seed development to post-harvest technologies. Live demonstrations, mentorship sessions, and export onboarding opportunities were provided to empower new and women-led enterprises.
Padma Shri awardee Umashankar Pandey emphasized the need for water conservation in agriculture, highlighting the significant water usage in rice production. He warned of potential global conflicts over water scarcity and proposed establishing a 'Jal Vishwavidyalaya' (Water University) and a Water Museum to promote water conservation education.
Global Participation and Objectives
The conference drew participation from over 7,800 delegates from India and across the globe, with representatives from at least 80 countries. Organized with the support of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and other bodies, BIRC 2025 aimed to strengthen India's position as a global rice exporter. The event facilitated trade dialogue, technology exchange, and policy-level engagement.
Culinary Showcase
ITC showcased global cuisines made with Indian rice varieties, demonstrating the versatility of Indian rice in international dishes. Dishes like Nasi Goreng (Indonesia), Kedgeree (UK), Sushi Chahan (Japan), Kabsa (Saudi Arabia), and Rice and Cheese Stuffed Burritos (Mexico) were prepared using different Indian rice varieties.
BIRC 2025 sought to build a future where Indian farmers, exporters, and innovators move forward together, creating economic value while protecting the planet, with the goal of making Indian rice the most trusted in the world.
