Harvesting New Ideas

Besides, he has worked in many countries, including Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and India. Though an entomologist by profession, he has managed to master subjects as varied as agro-forestry, livestock and environmental sciences. He was the entomologist of UKs department of technical cooperation in the ministry of overseas development in the '60s.

Rothschild believes that the developed world should not blame the rice growers of the food-deficit countries for the adverse effect of methane emission from paddy fields. These countries should look at their own inefficient energy utilisation and vehicular and other emissions before pointing an accusing fingers at the developing countries which needs rice to feed the poor.

He also throws up an interesting theoretical solution: Something like the catalytic converters can now be fitted in cars needed for the paddy fields to reduce their methane discharge.

All humility, Rothschild shies away from the super rice nomenclature the new discovery has acquired. He feels that this specially engineered plant looks ugly. However, looks aside, it has several desirable traits, including a stout stem, dark green leaves, a robust root system and extra long ears (panicles). In short, this plant will keep the rice bowl overflowing.