Rice innovation competition to be held

BANGKOK, July 1 (TNA) -- In an attempt to further improve Thai rice quality, concerned agencies have organised ‘Thai Rice Innovation for 2017’ for an 11th year. The objectives of organising the competition are aimed at stimulating related agencies to implement science and technology to further develop Thai rice in a bid to increase its value, especially in the field of rice processing products. Sumet Tantivejkul, director of Thai Rice Foundation under the Royal Patronage, said more than 400 pieces of rice products and production had joined previous competitions. Over 45 pieces of them received prizes, said Mr Sumet, adding that the Thais are now more enthusiastic in conducting research to enable in producing new rice products which should be supported as the attempt could help in strengthening Thailand’s economy on a sustainable basis. Meanwhile, Pun-Art Chairatana, director of National Innovation Agency under the Ministry of Science and Technology, opined that his agency had supported more than 50 rice projects worth about 50 million baht and helped created over 390 million baht investment in the past. Prizes for the upcoming competition are divided into two categories including an industry and community. The winner will receive a royal shield and cash amounting 80,000 baht from Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The first and second runner-ups will receive 40,000 and 20,000 baht in cash respectively. There will be two consolation prices and winners will each receive 10,000 baht in cash. Applications are now opened until July 31. (TNA)