Agronomic aspects of zinc biofortification in rice (Oryza sativa l.)

Globally, 2.7 billion people suffer from Zn deficiency (ZnD) and 1/3 of the world population living in the poor countries is at the high risk of this deficiency. A staggering number of ZnD deaths occur in South Asia alone. Though the causes of malnutrition are many and complex, one such cause is the dysfunctional food system which is dependent on agriculture. Rice is a staple food for 1/2-2/3 of the world's population and is mainly (90 %) grown in south, southeast and east-Asia. Nearly 50 % of the Indian soil contains inadequate Zn levels and this ZnD in rice-wheat system affects 50 % of rice, particularly, grown under lowland conditions. In order to address the ZnD issue in rice, various agronomic approaches of Zn biofortification can be tested, i.e., selection of cultivars, rate and time of Zn fertilizer application, crop rotation and use of soil microorganisms. Agronomic Zn biofortification is a promising and cost effective method to increase Zn concentration in rice grains. Thus it can save the life of millions of people in Asia, particularly in India. The present article is a modest attempt to analyze the viability of agronomic biofortification in rice grains as a short term and profitable tool to promote Zn concentration that would consequently cure several health hazards commonly visible among humans in the developing countries. © 2014 The National Academy of Sciences, India.