DRR Dhan-60: A Low GI, Climate-Resilient Fine-Grain Rice
In the journey toward nutritional security, climate resilience, and farmer prosperity, DRR Dhan-60 stands as a landmark achievement in Indian rice research. Jointly developed by CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology and ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, this breakthrough variety represents the power of molecular breeding in addressing real-world agricultural challenges. Derived from the iconic mega variety Samba Mahsuri and its improved line Improved Samba Mahsuri, DRR Dhan-60 was developed using Marker-Assisted Backcross Breeding (MABB) to combine grain quality, disease resistance, nutritional benefits, and input-use efficiency — all in one variety. On 28th September 2021, DRR Dhan-60 was dedicated to the Nation by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, marking a proud milestone in India’s scientific and agricultural advancement.
1️. Climate-Resilient & Disease-Resistant
DRR Dhan-60 carries strong resistance to bacterial blight, one of the most devastating diseases of rice. Under disease pressure, it delivers up to ~50% higher yield compared to susceptible varieties — ensuring stable harvests even under challenging conditions.
2️ First Low Soil Phosphorus-Tolerant Fine-Grain Variety
Phosphorus fertilizer is one of the highest input costs in rice cultivation. DRR Dhan-60 performs efficiently even under low soil phosphorus conditions, delivering similar yield with 30% less phosphate fertilizer, directly reducing cultivation costs and promoting sustainable nutrient management.
3 Diabetic-Friendly – Low Glycemic Index
In a clinical study conducted by ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition, DRR Dhan-60 was reported to have a Low Glycemic Index (GI < 55), making it suitable for diabetic and health-conscious consumers. This positions it not just as a farmer’s variety — but as a public health innovation.
4️ Premium Grain Quality
- Medium slender, fine white grain
- Cooking and eating quality similar to Samba Mahsuri
- Highly acceptable to consumers
5️ Higher Productivity & Early Maturity
- High yield potential (>5.0 tonnes/ha)
- Matures 10–15 days earlier (130–135 days) than Samba Mahsuri (140–145 days)
A Regional Impact Beyond Borders
DRR Dhan-60 is not just a national success it is contributing to regional food security. Rice varieties developed through collaborative research platforms are exchanged between India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, strengthening South Asian cooperation for climate-resilient agriculture. DRR Dhan-60 exemplifies how science-driven varieties can address shared challenges across agro-ecologies. DRR Dhan-60 is a model of integrated molecular breeding for nutrition, sustainability, and resilience. It demonstrates how advanced genomics tools can be translated into farmer-ready solutions that improve income, reduce input costs, and support public health.
From laboratory innovation in Hyderabad to farmers’ fields across South Asia, DRR Dhan-60 stands as a success story of science serving society.
