ICAR Indian Institute of Rice Research Hyderabad

The Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR), formerly known as the Directorate of Rice Research, is located in Rajendranagar near Hyderabad, Telangana. It was established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in 1965 as the All India Coordinated Rice Improvement Project, with its national headquarters in Hyderabad, to organize and coordinate multi-location testing of genetic lines and technologies for crop production and protection. In 1983, it was elevated to the Directorate of Rice Research with an added mandate for research in irrigated rice. The institute serves as a major center for the exchange of research material and information, coordinating multi-location testing to identify suitable varietal and management technologies across all rice ecosystems. As of January 2021, it continues its All India Coordinated Rice Improvement Project with 45 funded cooperating centers affiliated to State Agricultural Universities, State Departments of Agriculture, and other ICAR institutes, along with 90-100 voluntary centers. In July 2011, IIRR launched the Rice Knowledge Management Portal to share rice knowledge using ICT tools. The institute also offers consultancy services and undertakes contractual research. In 2015, IIRR celebrated its 50th year, marking significant contributions to rice production and food security in the country. The current director is Dr. Raman Meenakshi Sundaram.