Collaborative research with Wuhan University introduces high-yield, climate-tolerant rice

The agricultural community in Pakistan has received a promising development with the introduction of a new hybrid rice seed, created by researchers at the University of the Punjab in collaboration with experts from Wuhan University, China.

The innovative rice variety belongs to the Honglian hybrid category, marking the first time this specific seed type has been developed on Pakistani soil. Experts believe the seed could significantly enhance the country’s rice productivity and improve farmers’ resilience against climatic risks.

Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq, who heads the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics at Punjab University, said that the hybrid rice offers an impressive yield of up to 140 maunds per acre—a considerable leap from conventional rice crops that average far less.

The new variety has been cleared for commercial use by the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) following extensive field testing in diverse agro-climatic zones, including regions across all four provinces.

What sets this hybrid apart is its built-in resistance to various agricultural threats: bacterial diseases, pest infestations, and extreme temperatures. Its performance in stress conditions makes it a viable choice for farmers looking to stabilize and increase output amid growing climate uncertainty.

Dr. Ashfaq highlighted that such innovations are critical to modernizing Pakistan’s rice sector, which is vital for both domestic food security and export growth. The success of this hybrid also demonstrates the value of international academic partnerships in addressing local challenges with global expertise.