Madagascar IRRI Malagasy rice research project

IRRI will implement the project, which focuses on screening and improving rice germplasm in the national collection and developing a system of information exchange with, as well as a long-term rice research strategy for, NRRT. Two resident IRRI scientists will help NRRT plan, design, and implement its ongoing program of germplasm evaluation for approximately 600,000 ha of irrigated and 400,000 ha of upland rice at substations in three ecological zones: the Central highlands (Lac Alaotra, Mahitsy, Betsizaraina); the Northwest and West coasts (Marovoay); and the Southern regions (Mangoky). Field tests will be conducted to screen germplasm currently existing in the national collection, as well as germplasm introduced by IRRI, for their adaptability to the substations" ecological conditions (e.g., soil types, diseases, insects, land management) and other production-related conditions; a plant breeder funded by a World Bank project in the Lac Alaotra region will assist in these efforts. Specific lines identified as pure will be made available to national seed production and processing projects where they will be multiplied and provided to farmers. As part of the project"s collaborative rice research activities, IRRI will develop a system of information exchange with NRRT and will also provide NRRT personnel with the training needed for the project"s proper implementation; the latter may include refresher or short-term specialized courses (3-6 months) on project-related subjects; preparation for degrees/certificates (M.S., Ph.D.); and in-country short-term training in rice production. In addition, IRRI short-term consultants will prepare for the NRRT a long-term rice research strategy paper, which will be predicated on the broader plan currently being developed by the International Service for National Agricultural Research.