Latest Updates – BIRC 2026 | Day 3
04:54 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Knowledge Session 10 Concludes with Felicitation of Speakers
Knowledge Session 10, “How to Start a Rice Business,” concludes with the felicitation of the speakers and moderator in recognition of their valuable insights and contributions. The session featured practical perspectives on entering the rice industry, building a rice brand and navigating business opportunities, alongside an engaging audience Q&A that addressed key concerns and queries from participants.
04:51 PM | Knowledge session 10 | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Dr. Prem Garg Highlights Rice Storage as a Business Advantage
Speaking during Knowledge Session 10 at BIRC 2026, Dr. Prem Garg, National President of IREF, described rice as a promising business opportunity because of its relatively long shelf life when stored properly. He emphasised the importance of appropriate storage practices, noting that rice can be kept for several years under suitable conditions, making storage management an important consideration for rice entrepreneurs.
“Rice is a very good business because it is non-perishable when stored properly. With the right storage conditions, it can be preserved for years.” — Dr. Prem Garg, National President, IREF
04:43 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Dr. Prem Garg Addresses Audience Concern Over Moth Found in Rice Packet
An audience member raised a concern after a live moth reportedly emerged from a rice packet ordered through a quick-commerce platform, sparking a discussion on rice quality, storage and pesticide use.
Responding to the concern, Dr. Prem Garg, National President of IREF, recalled traditional wisdom, saying that their mothers used to believe the presence of sursuri (small insects or larvae) in rice indicated that it was natural. He cautioned against excessive reliance on pesticides, raising concerns about their potential implications for health.
He also advised the audience not to panic at the sight of larvae or insects in rice, bringing attention to the need for a balanced discussion on traditional practices, food safety and modern rice storage.
04:37 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3
“Selling rice is easy, but selling a promise is not. Start small, learn from your mistakes, and build your rice brand on quality, packaging and consumer trust.”
— Tapas K. Mandal, Managing Partner, BIRC 2026, Knowledge Session 10
04:34 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Tapas K. Mandal Shares Lessons from Building the Bongo Bhog Rice Brand
Sharing insights during Knowledge Session 10, “How to Start a Rice Business,” Tapas K. Mandal reflected on his entrepreneurial journey in building Bongo Bhog, a consumer-facing rice brand developed from bulk rice operations.
He emphasised that different rice varieties have different requirements and advised aspiring entrepreneurs to start small, learn from mistakes and prioritise packaging. He highlighted that selling rice is easier than selling a promise, underlining the importance of building consumer trust.
Drawing from his experience, he outlined six key steps to building a rice brand:
- Start — Begin with a clear business plan.
- Source — Identify the right rice varieties and suppliers.
- Shape — Develop the product to meet market needs.
- Safe — Ensure rice quality and safety.
- Seal — Focus on secure, attractive packaging.
- Sell — Build a brand that earns consumer trust.
His insights offered practical lessons for entrepreneurs looking to transition from bulk rice trading to a consumer-facing brand.
04:24 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Knowledge Session 10 | Manjul Singh Emphasises Passion & Government Support in Rice Business
Speaking at Knowledge Session 10, “How to Start a Rice Business,” Manjul Singh, Co-founder of Oryzo, highlighted the importance of passion when entering the rice industry. He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue the business with dedication and explore available government subsidies to support their ventures and growth.
“Have a passion for the rice business and make the most of available government subsidies.” — Manjul Singh, Co-founder, Oryzo
04:20 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Knowledge Session 10
1\. “Never go for competition; study which states produce rice, connect with brokers and understand transportation before entering the rice business.” — Dr. Prem Garg, National President, IREF
2\. “Explore financing opportunities through banks to help establish and grow your agri-business.” — Dr. Prem Garg
3\. “Never cheat your buyer. If you maintain trust and honesty, the same buyer will continue to do business with you.” — Dr. Prem Garg
4:19 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Dr. Prem Garg Shares Key Insights on Starting a Rice Business
Speaking at Knowledge Session 10, Dr. Prem Garg, National President of IREF, highlighted the opportunities in India’s rice trade, noting that the country exports around 20–21 million tonnes of rice.
He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to study rice-producing states, connect with brokers and understand transportation logistics before entering the business. Advising newcomers not to focus on competing for the top position, he emphasised identifying the right market opportunities.
Dr. Garg also highlighted the availability of bank financing for agri-businesses and stressed that trust and honesty are the foundations of long-term business relationships. He noted that treating buyers fairly helps build lasting partnerships and encourages repeat business.
4:12 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Knowledge Session 10 on “How to Start a Rice Business” Begins
Knowledge Session 10 at BIRC 2026 is set to begin with the topic “How to Start a Rice Business.” The speakers have assembled on stage to share their expertise and insights into the rice business, exploring opportunities and the essentials of entering the industry.
The session features Shraddha Warde, Assistant Director at MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Prem Garg, National President of IREF; Manjul Singh, Co-founder of Oryzo; and Tapas K. Mandal, Managing Partner.
The discussion aims to offer valuable perspectives for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders looking to explore opportunities in the rice sector.
03:03 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Round 2 Concludes with Rice Packets Presented to Participants
Round 2 of the rice quiz concludes at BIRC 2026, marking another engaging chapter in the Day 3 celebrations of the rice festival. Participants were presented with packets of different rice varieties by Dev Garg, Vice President of IREF, as a token of appreciation for their enthusiastic participation in the interactive challenge.
02:52 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Round 2 Tests Participants’ Rice Identification Skills
Round 2 of the rice quiz kicks off at BIRC 2026! Participants are touching and smelling different rice varieties, carefully memorising their textures and aromas to identify them. The engaging challenge adds an exciting sensory dimension to Day 3 of the Bharat International Rice Conference, celebrating the diversity of rice varieties.
02:47 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Rice Quiz Concludes with Tokens of Appreciation
The blindfold rice quiz at BIRC 2026 has concluded on an engaging note, with participants enthusiastically taking part in the challenge. As a small token of gratitude, rice packets will be presented to all participants, celebrating their spirited participation in this unique rice festival.
02:32 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Blindfold Rice Quiz Challenges Participants
Black rice, Sona Masoori, Kala Namak, Empire Basmati, Golden Sella, Sugandha and Jasmine rice varieties are placed on the table for the contestants. As participants prepare to be blindfolded, the quiz puts their rice identification skills and industry knowledge to the test!
02:26 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Blindfold Round Begins at the Rice Quiz
The excitement builds as the blindfold round of the rice quiz begins on Day 3 of BIRC 2026! With tables displaying labels of different rice varieties, participants are all set to test their knowledge and identification skills in this engaging challenge.
02:12 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Rice Quiz Up Next
Following the cultural performances, participants and delegates are now awaiting the Rice Quiz at BIRC 2026. The upcoming activity promises to bring an engaging and knowledge-filled close to the Day 3 celebrations, putting participants’ understanding of rice and the industry to the test.
02:10 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3
Update 1: Two Cultural Performances Add to the Festive Spirit
Following the conclusion of the MasterChef Contest, two cultural performances are taking place at BIRC 2026, bringing music, entertainment and a celebratory atmosphere to the Day 3 festivities.
Update 2: Cultural Performances Take Centre Stage
With the MasterChef Contest wrapped up, BIRC 2026 moves into a vibrant cultural segment. A wonderful cultural performance has begun, adding a celebratory touch to the Day 3 festivities and bringing delegates and participants together through the spirit of culture and entertainment.
01:10 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Finalists Serve Distinctive Biryani Creations
The MasterChef Contest tasting round continues with three contestants presenting their innovative takes on biryani. The dishes include Gnocchi Mushroom Biryani, featuring mushrooms as a key flavour element; Red Rice Biryani, offering a distinctive twist with an alternative rice variety; and Awadhi Biryani paired with Aloo Bukhara Kebabs, blending regional culinary influences with creative presentation. The diverse preparations showcase the finalists’ experimentation with ingredients, flavours and traditional biryani styles.
01:07 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Judges Begin Tasting Reinvented Biryani Creations
The MasterChef Contest enters its tasting phase as the judges sample the innovative biryani creations prepared by the top 10 finalists in Round 2. The first dish to be presented is Kamal Kadi and Kathal Biryani, enriched with dry fruits and mawa. Two other contestants showcase their culinary creativity with Paneer Tikka Biryani and Mushroom Tikka Biryani, bringing distinctive flavours and innovative twists to the iconic rice dish.
12:46 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: Audience Riddles Add Excitement to the Final 10 Minutes
With just 10 minutes remaining in Round 2 of the MasterChef Contest, the chefs are set to engage the audience with fun and intriguing riddles. Winners will be rewarded with hampers, adding an interactive and entertaining element to the culinary competition as the excitement builds at BIRC 2026.
12:37 PM |BIRC 2026, Day 3: Final 10 Minutes of the MasterChef Contest Highlight the Importance of Preventing Food Waste
With just 10 minutes remaining in Round 2 of the MasterChef Contest, Chef Vaibhav Bhargava highlights the importance of avoiding food wastage. He reminds participants that while food is wasted by many, countless people still go without meals. His message reinforces the need for responsible food practices and respect for every grain, making food sustainability an important takeaway from the third day of BIRC 2026.
12:29 PM | BIRC 2026, Day 3: MasterChef Contestants Reinvent the Iconic Biryani
The third day of BIRC 2026 witnesses an exciting Round 2 of the MasterChef Contest, organised by Aditya Garg. As the top 10 finalists showcase their culinary skills to reinvent the iconic biryani, the judges take the stage to closely examine their cooking techniques and creativity. Dr. Prem Garg also addresses the gathering, praising the contestants for their innovative efforts and culinary enthusiasm as they give this beloved rice dish a creative twist.
12:20 PM | BIRC 2026: Round 2 Sees Top 10 Finalists Reinvent the Iconic Biryani
Round 2 of the MasterChef Contest at BIRC 2026 brings together the top 10 finalists, with ten talented cooks from across the country showcasing their culinary creativity to reinvent the iconic biryani. With rice at the heart of every creation, the competition is witnessing creativity at its peak as contestants blend their unique skills, innovative ideas and regional culinary influences to give this beloved dish a distinctive twist.
12:14 PM | BIRC 2026: MasterChef Finalists Take on the Biryani Challenge
The top 10 finalists are showcasing their culinary creativity and skills, keeping rice at the heart of their preparations. As Round 2 progresses, the challenge takes an exciting turn with the chefs assigning the contestants a special task: preparing biryani. The finalists now have an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise, innovation and mastery of this iconic rice-based dish.
12:11 PM | BIRC 2026: MasterChef Contest Round 2 Kicks Off
Round 2 of the MasterChef Contest at BIRC 2026 is underway, with the top 10 finalists beginning their culinary preparations. As the contestants get busy crafting their dishes within the limited time, the judges are keenly observing their techniques, creativity and cooking process. The competition now enters an exciting phase as the finalists vie to impress the jury with their culinary skills.
11:28 AM | BIRC 2026: Top 10 Finalists Advance to the Next Round of the MasterChef Contest
Following the results of Round 1, the top 10 contestants have secured their places in the next round of the MasterChef Contest at BIRC 2026. The finalists will face a time-bound culinary challenge, with limited time to prepare their dishes and showcase their skills. The remaining participants will be felicitated with certificates and hampers in recognition of their participation.
11:18 AM | BIRC 2026: MasterChef Contestants Showcase Innovative Rice Creations
The MasterChef Contest at BIRC 2026 witnessed participants presenting creative dishes, including imli rice with imli-tomato chutney, watermelon rice, and a kheer-inspired sweet, alongside shahi phirni toast. The diverse preparations highlighted the versatility of rice in both traditional and innovative culinary creations. The results of the competition are expected to be announced shortly.
11:08 AM | BIRC 2026: MasterChef Contest Showcases Rice-Based Culinary Creativity
Participants presented an impressive variety of rice-based dishes, including modak, one-pot sprouts pulao, Jagannath Bhog Prasad, blue rice kheer, Kesari Dum Biryani, pineapple rice, Awadh Ki Tokari with Italian risotto, South Indian rice prasad made with sesame seeds, and Phulkari Pulao. The diverse creations highlighted rice’s versatility across regional traditions and innovative culinary styles.
10:55 AM | BIRC 2026: MasterChef Contest Round 1 Concludes, Top 10 Contestants Advance
The MasterChef Contest at BIRC 2026 has successfully concluded its first round, narrowing the competition to the top 10 contestants who will advance to Round 2. The culinary challenge is being judged by Chef Pawan Anand, Chef Amitabh Kumar and Chef Vaibhav Bhargava. As the third day of the Bharat International Rice Conference unfolds, the contest continues to celebrate culinary creativity and the versatility of rice.
10:53 AM | BIRC 2026: MasterChef Contest Brings 28 Contestants Together
The MasterChef Contest at BIRC 2026 brings together 28 contestants, showcasing their culinary skills and creativity with rice as the star ingredient. Sponsored by Shri Lal Mahal, the competition features three judges who will evaluate the participants’ culinary creations, adding a flavourful highlight to the third day of the Bharat International Rice Conference.
10:27 AM | BIRC 2026: Day 3 Kicks Off with a Celebration of Rice, Culture and Culinary Excellence
The third day of the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 begins with an exciting lineup of activities celebrating rice, its diversity and its culinary significance. The day’s highlights include a vibrant cultural show, the showcase of the Top 5 Rice Varieties, an engaging Master Chef Contest, and a fun-filled Rice Quiz. The festivities bring together food, culture and knowledge, highlighting the many dimensions of rice beyond the global trade and agricultural ecosystem.
