Goa's Resilient Paddy Variety Set for 2026 Release

Goa's agriculture sector is poised for a major update with the potential release of a new paddy seed variety by 2026. This development comes as state Agriculture Minister Ravi Naik announced its resilience against salinity, waterlogging, and crop lodging during a legislative assembly session.

Currently in its second year of on-farm trials, the variety has demonstrated encouraging performance under the Minikit Programme. According to Minister Naik, the seed, named Goa Dhan-5, is an enhancement over its predecessors, which were released in 2017 and 2019.

Goa Dhan-5's ability to withstand prolonged submergence makes it ideal for the state's flood-prone agriculture zones. Trial results indicate promising yields, with ongoing evaluations by local farmers, before its formal consideration by the State Variety Release Committee.

(With inputs from agencies.)