Systems-based rice improvement approaches for sustainable food and nutritional security

Rice, being a global staple crop, feeds about 56% of the world population and sustains 40% of the world's poor. At similar to $200 billion, it also accounts for 13% of the annual crop value. With hunger and malnutrition rampant among the poor, rice research for development is unique in global food and nutrition security. A systems-based, sustainable increase in rice quantity and quality is imperative for environmental and biodiversity benefits. Upstream 'discovery' through biotechnology, midstream 'development' through breeding and agronomy, downstream 'dissemination and deployment' must be 'demand-driven' for 'distinct socio-economic transformational impacts'. Local agro-ecology and livelihood nexus must drive the research agenda for targeted benefits. This necessitates sustained long-term investments by government, non-government and private sectors to secure the future food, nutrition, environment, prosperity and equity status.

Automated summary

Rice, as a global staple crop, feeds a large portion of the world population and plays a crucial role in global food security and nutrition. Sustainable increase in rice quantity and quality is essential for environmental and biodiversity benefits.