NEW DELHI, Aug 18: The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 is set to bring the world of rice, food and agriculture together in New Delhi, with around 200 varieties of rice and 50 global cuisines to be showcased during the three-day event.
Organised by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF), the conference will be held from October 23 to 25 and will feature nine curated experience zones designed to explore the many dimensions of rice.
The event will present rice not simply as a staple food, but as an important part of global culture, agriculture, nutrition, technology and international trade.
The nine experience zones will offer visitors and industry participants different perspectives on the rice ecosystem, ranging from traditional food and cultural practices to new technologies and innovations shaping the future of the sector.
The showcase of 200 rice varieties is expected to highlight the remarkable diversity of the grain. Different varieties vary in appearance, aroma, texture and cooking characteristics, forming the foundation of food traditions across many regions.
The culinary component will add another dimension to the event, with 50 global cuisines demonstrating how rice is prepared and enjoyed in different parts of the world. From traditional recipes to contemporary interpretations, the showcase will highlight the versatility of rice and its place in everyday diets.
The conference will also focus on the economic importance of the rice industry. From farmers and processors to exporters, traders and food businesses, the rice value chain supports a wide network of livelihoods and commercial activity.
Technology and innovation will form an important part of the event as the industry looks at new ways to improve production, processing, food quality and market access. The conference is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore emerging opportunities across the sector.
Nutrition will also be a key area of focus, reflecting growing interest in food quality, healthier diets and the nutritional value of different rice varieties.
For India, BIRC 2026 provides an opportunity to showcase the country’s diverse rice heritage and its role in the international rice trade. It also creates a platform for connecting India’s rice industry with global food and business communities.
With its combination of food, culture, technology, innovation and trade, the conference aims to offer a broader view of an industry that touches the daily lives of billions of people.
As New Delhi prepares to host BIRC 2026, the event is expected to put the spotlight on rice not only as one of the world’s most important staple foods, but also as a product at the intersection of agriculture, culture, business and global food security.