Scientists Channelise AI To Boost Rice Resilience To Climate Change
Interestingly, Australian and Indian scientists have initiated a research collaboration using artificial intelligence (AI) and genome editing to safegaurd rice crops from rising global temperatures. Notably, a Monash statement on Wednesday announced that the project, "Designer crops: engineering thermotolerance for agricultural productivity," is led by Australia's Monash University in partnership with India's National Institute of Plant Genome Research under the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund, worth AUD3.76 million (approximately US$2.67 million).
Researchers will utilise AI and CRISPR-based genome editing to recognise how plant proteins respond to heat stress and make precise genetic changes to enhance thermotolerance. Promising lines will be tested in diverse environments to evaluate performance and productivity. Moreover, Monash Professor Sureshkumar Balasubramanian said that the project intended to deliver practical solutions for farmers witnessing a changing climate. Furthermore, as global temperatures rise, crops such as rice are increasingly exposed to heat stress that can dramatically increase yields. Sridevi Sureshkumar from Monash School of Biological Sciences mentioned that the theoretical designer crops will be a league above modified crops already in use around the world.
Rice and Grocery kits were distributed to 100 persons with disabilities in Chennai
According to reports, Lions International celebrated the International Day of Persons With Disabilities recently in Chennai and distributed rice and groceries kit to 100 persons with disabilities. Further, financial aid of ₹10,000 each was provided to two children with intellectual disabilities. The Beacon of Hope for the Differently Abled Award was presented to Social Activist Saisankara Panchapakesan for his efforts in the uplift of persons with disabilities for over 30 years.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually to promote the rights, well-being, and inclusion of people with disabilities across all aspects of life. Led by the United Nations, this day focuses on breaking barriers and fostering a more accessible, equitable world for the 1.3 billion people globally living with disabilities.
Thai Rice Exports Fall 17.5% in January 2026 as Strong Baht Hits Competitiveness
Thai rice exporters are targeting 2026 rice exports of 7.03 million tonnes worth THB130 billion. They are appealing to the government to urgently address the exchange rate to reach 33–34 THB/USD, warning Thai jasmine rice could become the world’s most expensive and lose 15–20% of its significant markets. Charoen Laothamatas, president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, stated that Thailand’s rice exports in January 2026 totalled 530,287 tonnes, down from 643,144 tonnes in the same month a year earlier, a drop of 17.5%. Export value stood at THB9.707 billion, down 30.7%, or USD313 million, down 23.9%, indicating a price pressure in the global rice market and strengthening the competition.
Notably, a major factor behind this situation could be the stronger baht, which has appreciated from around 33–34 THB/USD to about 31 THB/USD, making Thai rice more expensive than competitors and eroding competitiveness. Major markets in January included Iraq, the United States, South Africa, Malaysia, Angola, Cameroon, Senegal, China, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. Imports by Iraq and the United States dropped significantly, whereas Malaysia rose 116.9% and China rose 84.5%, pointing to a reshaping of markets and shifting demand across regions.