Bangkok: The Department of Rice celebrated its 20th anniversary with an event centered on "New Generation Rice with a Sustainable Heart," highlighting modern rice production techniques aimed at reducing costs, increasing value, and fostering sustainability for Thai farmers. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Captain Thamanat Phromphao, presided over the opening ceremony where Mr. Anont Nonthasri, Director-General of the Department of Rice, presented a report on the department's progress and mission.
According to Thai News Agency, Captain Thamanat issued a policy directive emphasizing the Department of Rice as a crucial agency in advancing the country's rice sector. This involves studying, analyzing, researching, and developing comprehensive solutions for the rice industry, including production, processing, and marketing both domestically and internationally. Such efforts are crucial for ensuring national food security and enhancing the income of rice farmers.
The Director-General of the Department of Rice led a tour of an exhibition themed "New Generation Rice, a Heart for a Sustainable World." The showcase featured cutting-edge rice production techniques aimed at reducing costs and adding value through technology and innovation. Highlights included reducing cultivation costs with modern technology, strengthening community rice centers, projects to cut production costs, carbon labeling for rice products, smart rice paddies, low-carbon rice production, and the concept of "digital rice" to elevate Thai rice standards globally.
Captain Thamanat also stressed that the challenges faced by farmers, particularly rice farmers, should be prioritized as a national agenda. He urged Department of Rice officials to continue their efforts in addressing these issues and improving farmers' quality of life, even during the governmental transition period.
In recent years, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has successfully driven initiatives resulting in improved rice prices. However, further development is needed, especially in securing markets for farmers' produce. Although this is not directly the Ministry's responsibility, it should be pursued to maximize benefits for Thai farmers.