The internet, along with exponentially increasing computing power, has permitted scientists the world over to share and analyze vast volumes of data and knowledge. Advances in biotechnology are allowing the development of nutritionally enhanced strains of rice that have the potential to avert the hidden hunger of malnutrition that afflicts so many of the poor. Using the information revealed by the sequencing of the rice genome, techniques such as marker-assisted selection allow new varieties to be bred in a fraction of the time required as recently as 20 years ago. Simultaneous revolutions in molecular biology and genetics, computational power and storage capacity, and communications have the potential to help scientists dramatically accelerate the pace of their research. Similarly, water-saving practices such as alternate wetting and drying, which allows farmers to grow rice with up to 25% less water, are becoming increasingly important as water becomes an ever scarcer agricultural resource. This is true for our understanding of the rice plant and consequent genetic improvements, and it is also true for the less glamorous but equally important agronomic side of the equation: Improvements in crop management incorporating such practices as site-specific nutrient management and conservation agriculture have had demonstrable impact in farmers’ fields. Despite the withdrawal of investment in research, the last 15 years have seen some impressive successes. Nevertheless, it would be dishonest to paint a picture of utter doom and gloom.
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