Researchers are continuing their search for ways to combat BLB and BRS, which are spreading in many parts of the island. No cure has yet been found, but research technicians are currently looking for rice varieties that are resistant to the disease...
There are 30 types of rice being tested, available in Madagascar, to identify rice resistant to these diseases.
In 2019, BLB was found in Madagascar, and it is believed that the bacterium came from Asia to India and reached us. In 2012, it was confirmed that BRS was present in our country, even though this disease has existed in Madagascar for decades. Nor is there any impact on people's health from eating rice affected by BLB and BRS, says FOFIFA Antsirabe researcher Harinjaka RAVELOSON.