Advancing Salinity-Tolerant Rice in Bangladesh: The Case of BRRI dhan67

Abstract

Salinity is one of the major constraints limiting rice cultivation in the coastal regions of Bangladesh, where the rising salinity of soil and water continues to threaten crop productivity and food security. To address this challenge, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) developed BRRI dhan67, a salt-tolerant and high-yielding rice variety derived from a cross between IR61247-3B-8-2-1 and BRRI dhan36. This study summarizes the performance, adaptation, and dissemination of BRRI dhan67 based on multi-location adaptive research trials, participatory varietal selection, and post-release adaptation and out-scaling activities conducted from 2012 to 2022 across both saline and non-saline ecosystems of Bangladesh. BRRI dhan67 consistently performed well under varying levels of salinity stress, ranging from 4 to 12 deciSiemens per meter (dS/m), producing grain yield of 3.0 to 6.09 tons per hectare (t ha^-1) with an average of 4.47 t ha^-1. In non-saline environments, grain yield ranged from 5.42 to 7.53 t ha^-1 with a mean of 6.62 t ha^-1. It showed robust seedling-stage salinity tolerance, maintaining 81% survival at 12 dS/m. Growth duration ranged from 138 to 144 days in the south coastal saline region, with an average of 141 days depending on different sites and seasons, while it ranged from 145 to 152 days with an average of 148 days in non-saline favorable environments. Grain quality assessments revealed superior milling recovery and head rice recovery, alongside medium-slender grain type and desirable cooking qualities. The variety also exhibited moderate resistance to major pests and diseases, adding to its agronomic stability. Participatory trials confirmed high farmer preference and strong adaptability in real-field conditions, particularly in salt-affected coastal zones. Overall, the results highlight BRRI dhan67 as a resilient and farmer-friendly solution with strong potential to enhance rice production and sustainability in both the saline-prone and favourable rice-growing environments of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Rice J.29(1): 18-28, 2025