Pakistani agricultural scientists have achieved a significant milestone in rice breeding with the development of Sultan Super Basmati, a new variety boasting an unprecedented raw grain length of 9.66mm—the longest in Pakistan’s rice history. Announced on January 3, 2026, by the Rice Research Institute (RRI) in Kala Shah Kaku, the variety also elongates to up to 20mm when cooked, combining superior aroma, excellent cooking quality, and high yield potential. This innovation builds on Pakistan’s renowned Basmati legacy and promises to strengthen the country’s position in global premium rice markets.
Record-Breaking Grain Length and Superior Quality
Dr. Usman Saleem, Senior Scientist at RRI, highlighted that Sultan Super Basmati surpasses previous records, including the 9.5mm of Sona Super Basmati (developed in 2023) and the 8.26mm of Kainat Basmati. The grains cook evenly with outstanding elongation, retaining the characteristic strong Basmati fragrance. Though slightly late-sown, it matures in line with common Basmati types, making it farmer-friendly.
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Boost for Yields, Exports, and Farmer Prosperity
With a yield potential of up to 77 maunds per acre—far exceeding the 45-maund average of existing varieties—the new rice addresses productivity challenges while maintaining export-grade quality. Taufiq Ahmad Khan, former senior vice chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), emphasized the global demand for extra-long grains, urging rapid farmer adoption to build exportable surplus. The RRI, with a century-long history, continues breeding efforts on three more advanced Basmati lines.