Lao researchers seeking to introduce faster growing rice varieties
The Naphok Agricultural Research Centre is seeking to produce early maturing varieties of rice seed for Lao farmers to plant in the coming years, as part of efforts to reduce the disaster related impacts of climate change.
Researchers at the centre are currently conducting ongoing research into some 400-500 lines of rice varieties in order to produce the earlier maturing varieties, according to Mr Nikhom Chantheva, one of the rice researchers.
The rice seeds which are currently being produced by Lao farmers take about 120-130 days before harvesting is possible, while with the new rice seeds, harvesting will be possible after only 90-95 days, he said.
