IR64 Rice – The Affordable Grain Powering Global Kitchens
Introduction
IR64 rice is one of the most widely grown non-basmati rice varieties in India and across several rice-producing countries. Known for its medium grain length, soft texture, and affordability, IR64 is a staple food in many households and plays a vital role in meeting the food demands of developing nations.
Whether it is the daily rice meal in a South Indian home, the midday meal in a government school, or a bulk export to Africa or the Middle East, IR64 rice is trusted for its consistent quality, fast cooking time, and competitive price. This variety has earned its place in global supply chains thanks to its versatility and yield.
Origin and History
The IR64 rice variety was developed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines. Released in the 1980s, IR64 was designed to be a high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-adaptable rice variety. Its goal was to support food security in rice-dependent countries like India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
India adopted IR64 primarily in the southern states such as Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka, and later in eastern states like Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It quickly became one of the most cultivated non-basmati rice varieties due to its short duration, strong tillering ability, and reliable output.
Agronomic Features
IR64 rice is considered a semi-dwarf, early maturing rice variety, ideal for regions with water constraints or those practicing multiple cropping systems. It is suited to both irrigated and rainfed ecosystems.
Key agricultural features:
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Crop Duration: 110 to 125 days (early-maturing)
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Plant Height: 95 to 105 cm
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Grain Yield: 5 to 6.5 tons per hectare
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Water Requirements: Moderate; performs well in lowland areas
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Disease Resistance: Moderate tolerance to blast, bacterial leaf blight, and brown planthopper
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Soil Suitability: Grows well in loamy, alluvial, or medium black soils
Its short growth cycle allows farmers to cultivate more than one crop annually, increasing income potential and crop rotation flexibility.
Grain Characteristics
IR64 rice is recognized for its medium slender grain and mild flavor. It is available in raw (white) and parboiled (sela) forms, with parboiled being preferred for its longer shelf life and higher nutritional value.
Physical properties of IR64 rice:
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Grain Length: 6.0–6.2 mm
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Grain Shape: Medium slender
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Color: White (raw) or golden-yellow (parboiled)
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Milling Recovery: 68–72% head rice
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Chalkiness: Moderate
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Texture after cooking: Soft and fluffy
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Moisture Content: Typically 12–13%
The grain remains firm without becoming sticky, making it ideal for large-scale catering or quick cooking in household kitchens.
Cooking and Taste Profile
IR64 rice is known for its easy cooking and mild neutral taste, making it suitable for a wide range of cuisines. It absorbs flavors well and delivers a soft texture that is appreciated in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals.
Key cooking features:
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Boiling Time: 15–18 minutes
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Water Ratio: 1:2 (rice to water)
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Grain Expansion: Moderate (not as much as Basmati)
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Stickiness: Low to medium, depending on water used
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Aroma: None to very mild
Common dishes made with IR64 rice include:
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Steamed rice for daily meals
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Khichdi or pongal
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Lemon rice
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Curd rice
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Fried rice and pulao (non-premium)
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Bulk meal services (hostels, canteens, school meals)
Domestic and Global Market Demand
IR64 has a strong presence in both domestic and international markets. In India, it is the backbone of public food supply programs, while abroad, it is one of the most exported non-basmati varieties, especially in the budget segment.
Domestic demand:
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Popular in South Indian and Eastern Indian households
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Supplied in ration schemes (PDS) and mid-day meal programs
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Used by small eateries, tiffin services, and caterers
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Preferred by industrial kitchens and NGOs for bulk cooking
International demand:
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High exports to Africa, Bangladesh, UAE, Yemen, Benin, and Senegal
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Used in humanitarian food aid and government relief programs
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One of the most exported non-basmati rice varieties from India
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Preferred by buyers seeking affordable alternatives to premium rice
The typical FOB (Free on Board) price range for IR64 is much lower than Basmati, making it competitive in price-sensitive markets.
Benefits for Farmers, Traders, and Consumers
Farmers:
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Early maturity allows two or three crop cycles per year
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Good resistance to pests and diseases
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Requires moderate fertilizer input
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Suitable for both irrigated and rainfed regions
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Good market demand and fair procurement rates
Traders and Millers:
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Easy to source in bulk from major rice-producing regions
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High milling recovery
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Versatile in raw and parboiled form
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Stable pricing year-round
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Strong domestic and international demand
Consumers:
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Affordable daily-use rice
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Fast cooking, energy-efficient
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Non-sticky, soft texture
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Suitable for all types of Indian and Asian dishes
Challenges and Limitations
Despite its popularity, IR64 rice has some limitations:
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Lacks aroma and premium appeal of Basmati rice
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Not suitable for special occasions or high-end dishes
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Susceptible to lodging under certain high-fertilizer conditions
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Shorter shelf life in raw form if not stored properly
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Grain breakage may occur during poor milling
These limitations, however, are outweighed by its high productivity and economic value.
Conclusion
IR64 rice is one of the most dependable and widely accepted non-basmati rice varieties in India and around the world. It offers the perfect mix of affordability, yield, adaptability, and soft texture, making it ideal for daily consumption and mass distribution.
From a farmer’s perspective, IR64 offers an opportunity for consistent income. For traders, it opens doors to high-volume exports. For families and institutions, it is a cost-effective way to feed many without sacrificing quality.