The Union government recently reduced the export duty on three categories of rice from 20% to 10%.
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- According to the notification, the reduction applies to rice in the husk (paddy or rough), husked (brown) rice, and parboiled rice.
Different Varieties of Rice
Husk:
- The outer layer of the rice grain, which is removed during the milling process.
- It is also known as the rice hull.
Husked (Brown) Rice:
- Rice grains that have had the husk removed but still retain the bran layer, which is the nutrient-rich layer beneath the husk.
- This type of rice is considered a whole grain and offers more nutritional value compared to white rice.
Parboiled Rice:
- A type of rice that has been partially cooked before being milled.
- This process helps to retain more nutrients, including B vitamins and iron, compared to regular white rice.
- Parboiled rice also has a firmer texture and is often used in dishes that require a longer cooking time.
White rice:
- Rice grains that have had both the husk and bran layer removed.
- While it has a softer texture and cooks quickly, it is less nutritious than brown or parboiled rice.
Basmati rice:
- A long-grain variety of rice known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
- It can be white or brown.
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Reasons for Reducing Export Duty
- Surplus Inventories: Stocks of the grain have increased, and a new harvest is expected in the coming weeks.
- Boosting Exports: Lower export duty will reduce India’s export prices and boost international shipments.
- Competitive Pressure: This move will force competing nations like Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan, and Myanmar to reduce their prices.
Rice Production in India
- Global Trade Share:
- India is the second-largest rice producer globally, after China.
- The country is the world’s largest rice exporter, holding a 45% share in the global market.
- Top Rice Producing States:
- Leading Producers: West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu.
- High-Yielding States: Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, Kerala.
Facts on Rice
- Staple Food: Rice is a primary food source for most Indians.
- Kharif Crop: Grows in high temperatures (above 25°C), requires high humidity, and annual rainfall exceeding 100 cm.
Irrigation: In regions with less rainfall, rice is cultivated using irrigation.- Multiple Crops: In states like West Bengal and southern states, farmers grow two to three rice crops annually.
- Three Crops in West Bengal: ‘Aus,’ ‘Aman,’ and ‘Boro’ rice are cultivated.
- Cropped Area: Approximately 25% of India’s total cropped area is devoted to rice cultivation.
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Key Issues Related to Rice Export in India
- Virtual Water Export:
- Rice cultivation is water-intensive, and large-scale rice exports can worsen water scarcity in already water-stressed regions.
- This can strain local water resources and negatively impact other crops like wheat and pulses that also rely on irrigation.
- Food Security Concerns:
- Over-reliance on rice exports may affect domestic food security, especially as India’s population grows.
- Excessive exports could lead to higher domestic prices, making rice less affordable for vulnerable populations.
- Impact on Crop Diversity:
- Focusing too much on rice cultivation may reduce crop diversity, making the agricultural sector more susceptible to pests, diseases, and climate change.
- Promoting a diversified agricultural system is essential for long-term food security and resilience.
- Trade Policies and Subsidies:
- Government policies such as subsidies and export incentives play a significant role in influencing rice exports.
- Policies must strike a balance to ensure they don’t negatively impact domestic farmers or consumers while avoiding unfair competition in global markets.
Technique to Improve Rice Cultivation
- Direct Seeded Rice (DSR):
- Also known as the ‘broadcasting seed technique,’ DSR is a method that uses less water in paddy cultivation.
- Seeds are directly sown in the fields, bypassing the traditional nursery setup and transplanting process.
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