Rice and Farmer's Day 2018 held in Bangkok

BANGKOK, June 4 (TNA) -- Mr Kritsada Boonrat, the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives launched the "Rice and Farmer's Day 2018" with the aim of improving the livelihood of Thai farmers. Mr Kritsada presided over the opening ceremony off the "Rice and Farmer's Day 2018" in recognition of the former kings and the members of the royal family's extraordinary efforts to develop and support rice farming in the country. Mr Kritsada stated that the Ministry of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives was aware of the responsibility they had been assigned and has accordingly formulated the 2017- 2018 strategic rice plan to coordinate their efforts to ensure the highest benefits for farmers. The primary goal is to improve rice farmers' overall competitiveness which in turn will result in better conditions and standards of living of farming families throughout the country. Anan Suwannarat, the Director-General of the Rice Department said the event had been organised under the concept 'the splendour of rural rice, the goodness from the farm and growth through innovation'. More than 300 local rice breeds were showcased at the event alongside special exhibits commemorating royal patronage and more than 100 booths presenting rice related products. The event will be held from June 4 to 9 From 9am to 6pm at the Rice Department headquarters in Bang Khen district in Bangkok. (TNA)