Writer: Agriculture and Food Cluster Team
Mrs. Duangjan Wichalin, a rice farmer under the phase two of the Better Rice Initiative Asia (BRIA) project, traveled far from her hometown in Ubon Ratchathani province, northeastern Thailand to sell a variety of her sustainable rice at the Thai Rice Festival 2018 in the capital. She is returning home with a national award for the most delicious non-glutinous rice of the year in her hands.
“I will put a sticker featuring a photo of the award on my rice packages to show the consumers that my rice is delicious and totally safe to eat,” Mrs. Duangjan said.
Krishnapong Sripongpankul, director-general of Thai Rice Department, on behalf of Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, granted the award to Mrs. Duangjai last night.
Mrs. Duangjan Wichalin no longer used pesticide and has chosen to comply with the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) standard practices. Read more about Mother Duangjan and her fellow farmer at https://www.asean-agrifood.org/hom-mali-rice-farmers-in-northeastern-thailand-enjoy-sweet-smell-of-success/
Mrs. Duangjai was also able to sell out all her hom mali rice packages which had the logo of the BRIA project alongside the text saying “low-emission practices” printed on them within two days.
“I am so happy,” she shared her great joy.
The Thai Rice Festival was set for December 19 and 24 2018 at Lan Khon Muang in front of City Hall.
Last but not least, big congratulations to Mother Duangjan!