BIRC 2026 to Unveil Global Rice Archive

The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 will unveil a Global Rice Archive in October 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The archive will display about 200 commercially relevant rice varieties from India and other countries, including Arborio, Jasmine, Glutinous RD6, Japanese sushi rice, Basmati, black rice, red rice, and regional specialty grains.

Bharat International Rice Conference 2026

BIRC 2026 is scheduled from October 23 to 25, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event is organised by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority.

Global Rice Archive

The Global Rice Archive is planned as a first-of-its-kind initiative for rice buyers and exporters. It will provide a single venue for comparing rice grains and identifying potential suppliers across markets. Each rice variety will be presented with miniature jute sacks and traditional tarazus. The display will also include information on origin and links with soil, climate, water, and cultural practices.

Experience Zones and Knowledge Partners

The Global Rice Archive is one of nine immersive Experience Zones at BIRC 2026. The conference theme is “200 Varieties. One Cultural Landscape”. The International Rice Research Institute, EY, and S&P Global joined BIRC 2026 as Knowledge Partners on September 9, 2026. These organisations are associated with rice research, market intelligence, and business strategy.

Important Facts for Exams

• Rice is a cereal grain of the species Oryza sativa, and it is a staple food in many Asian countries.
• Basmati rice is an aromatic long-grain rice variety associated with the Indo-Gangetic plains.
• The International Rice Research Institute is based in Los Baños, Philippines, and works on rice science and breeding.
• APEDA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

Rice Trade and Classification

Rice varieties are commonly classified by grain length, aroma, colour, and processing type. Commercial categories include aromatic rice, glutinous rice, parboiled rice, black rice, red rice, and speciality regional varieties.