Why in news?
Scientists at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have revived and improved the traditional black aromatic rice variety known locally as Adam Chini. Once valued for its sugar‑crystal–like grains and rich aroma, the tall and low‑yielding landrace had almost disappeared from farmers’ fields. Through careful mutation breeding, researchers developed shorter, early‑maturing plants with higher yields, giving the variety a new lease of life.
Background
Adam Chini rice is native to eastern Uttar Pradesh and parts of Bihar. Farmers historically grew it for ceremonial occasions because its long, translucent grains resemble mishri (rock sugar) and release a distinctive fragrance when cooked. However, the traditional plant grew about 165 cm tall and took around 155 days to mature, making it prone to lodging in heavy rains. Yields rarely exceeded 20–23 quintals per hectare, so most farmers switched to shorter, high‑yielding varieties in the 20th century.
What researchers did
- Induced mutations: The BHU team treated seeds with a chemical mutagen to create genetic variation. They screened thousands of seedlings and selected those with desirable traits. After several seasons of field trials, they identified 23 stable mutant lines.
- Improved traits: The selected lines have an average height of about 105 cm, mature in roughly 120 days and yield 30–35 quintals per hectare. Importantly, the grains retain their black colour, characteristic fragrance and rock‑sugar appearance.
- New name and adoption: To reflect its regional identity, the improved variety has been rebranded as Vindhya Black Rice. Farmers in Chandauli, Mirzapur, Sonbhadra and parts of Varanasi have started cultivating it, encouraged by higher yields and premium market prices.
Significance
- Conserving genetic heritage: Reviving landraces like Adam Chini preserves agro‑biodiversity and cultural identity. Mutant breeding allows scientists to enhance desirable traits without resorting to transgenic methods.
- Boosting farmer incomes: The improved variety offers better yields and fetches higher prices in niche markets due to its colour, flavour and health benefits (black rice is rich in antioxidants and iron). This can provide an alternative livelihood option for smallholders.
- Promoting climate resilience: Shorter plants are less prone to lodging and better suited to changing rainfall patterns. Early maturity also allows farmers to fit the crop into multiple‑cropping systems.
Conclusion
The revival of Adam Chini rice demonstrates how scientific innovation can breathe new life into heritage crops. By balancing tradition with improved agronomy, researchers have opened a path for farmers to benefit economically while conserving cultural food varieties.
Source: The New Indian Express