Phulbari Pran Banga Research to Produce Premium Rice BD

Phulbari Pran Banga Millers Limited in Dinajpur is conducting research to develop premium quality Basmati and long-grain rice in Bangladesh, aiming to reduce import dependence and strengthen the country’s agricultural economy.

The information was shared at a rice exhibition held at 11:30 am on Wednesday (April 22), organized by the company in Phulbari.

Officials said Basmati rice from Pakistan and India is widely known in global markets for its long grains and aroma. In comparison, black rice from countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia is valued for its high nutritional content and antioxidants. It is dark purple-black in color with a nutty flavor and is gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers.

Pran Banga Millers said it is working to produce similar quality aromatic and long-grain rice locally instead of relying on imports. The company is also focusing on improving nutritious black rice and traditional local varieties such as Katari rice.

The research includes BRRI rice varieties 50, 108, 113, 114, and Banglamati, developed by the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, along with two local coarse varieties.

Company officials added that the initiative goes beyond research and aims to build an integrated value chain. The goal is to ensure fair prices for farmers and make premium-quality rice available to consumers in the local market.

The exhibition was attended by District Seed Certification Officer Md. Zafar Iqbal, Agriculture Officer Md. Saif Hasan Mostafin, and other agriculture officials. Senior representatives of Pran Company, including General Manager Md. Zakaria Hossain, were also present.

Agriculture experts believe that successful production of premium rice varieties in Bangladesh could reduce import dependency, increase farmers’ income, and expand opportunities in the country’s rice sector.