BIRC 2026 to Showcase 200 Rice Varieties and 50 Global Cuisines Across Nine Experience Zones

The upcoming Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 is poised to be a landmark event for the global agri-food sector. Organized by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF), the event will take place in New Delhi from October 23 to 25, 2026. The conference aims to showcase a diverse range of 200 rice varieties and 50 global cuisines across nine curated experience zones, providing a comprehensive look at the grain's importance.

Organizers emphasize that the event’s format extends far beyond a traditional trade show. The nine thematic zones will highlight essential aspects of the industry, ranging from cultural heritage and culinary traditions to technological innovation and nutrition. Attendees will have the opportunity to trace the evolution of rice cultivation, consumption, and trade patterns across generations, while also examining how rice has historically influenced global trade networks.

Critical industry challenges will take center stage during the event. According to the IREF, rice is increasingly viewed through a lens that encompasses far more than just production, pricing, and exports. Discussions will center on food security, sustainability, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and shifting consumer preferences, reflecting the broader role rice plays in modern agriculture and global policy.

BIRC 2026 will also delve into cutting-edge agricultural advancements. Key zones will focus on seed technology, biodiversity, and the intersection of AI with rice farming. By exploring these topics, the conference aims to demonstrate how innovative technology can assist farmers in adapting to environmental changes and improving overall production efficiency, ensuring the long-term viability of the crop.

The scale of the event is underscored by the success of the previous edition, which attracted 10,854 visitors, including 1,083 international buyers from over 90 countries, alongside 154 exhibitors. The previous forum concluded with the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth 30,435 crore rupees. This performance highlights the BIRC’s ongoing potential as a primary platform for fostering international collaboration and connecting global stakeholders within the rice value chain.