Rice Seed Production and Use in Bangladesh and India Need for Bilateral Cooperation

Quality of rice seed is one of the most important determinants of yield. This in turn, directly impacts production and food security of a community, country and region. There are evidences to suggest that use of modern variety (MV) of rice seed can raise the produce by 15 percent to 20 percent. In South Asia, more particularly Bangladesh and India, given the status of rice as a staple food, food insecurity and ensuing impact of climate change on agriculture, it is of critical importance that rice seed industry is adequately nurtured and made more resourceful. It is believed, as indicated by several initiatives by international research and development organisations, including International Rice Research Institute1, that cooperation and collaboration on seeds between Bangladesh and India could help both the countries to improve their food situation. It can be achieved by widening of the scope of seed system in both the countries. It is expected that it will significantly No. 1/2014