Nana Sumarna, an agricultural extensionist in Wanayasa Sub-district, Purwakarta District, West Java Province, Indonesia, has been instrumental in advancing the acceptance of Inpari IR Nutrizinc rice in the region. When the variety was first introduced in 2020, local farmers were hesitant due to its small and slender grains, which were unpopular. Despite efforts to highlight its benefits, including high zinc content, the first harvest left many dissatisfied, with concerns over low productivity and poor market value compared to traditional varieties.

However, Nana remained undeterred. He partnered with researchers from BBPadi (Centre for Rice Research), conducted multi-location trials, and worked tirelessly to address the marketing challenges. In 2021, he once again encouraged farmers to plant Inpari IR Nutrizinc, assuring them of marketing support. To show his commitment, Nana personally purchased and stored two tons of the rice, seeking better milling results and promoting it at local bazaars, even though initial interest was low.

By 2022, Nana’s perseverance, combined with a comprehensive biofortification support package, began to bear fruit. He found a milling partner, CV Sawargi, that produced high-quality, premium-grade rice with less than five percent broken grains. This success reinvigorated his efforts, leading to the rice being packaged attractively and creating new market opportunities and higher market value.

Throughout 2022 and into 2023, Nana hosted visits from various stakeholders, including HarvestPlus Indonesia, and explored innovative uses for broken rice, such as producing Nutrizinc flour. He also established the Nutrizinc Post in Taringgul Tonggoh Village as an information hub for farmers. His work culminated in showcasing Nutrizinc products at high-profile meetings organized by HarvestPlus Indonesia and welcoming delegations from different organizations. His advocacy highlighted the role of zinc enriched rice in addressing stunting and improving community health.

“My success in promoting Nutrizinc rice in Wanayasa is inseparable from the material and technical support of HarvestPlus Indonesia. I deeply appreciate their backing, especially the visit from HarvestPlus Global to our village, which has truly boosted farmers’ enthusiasm for planting Nutrizinc rice. I hope HarvestPlus will continue to guide and motivate us so that Nutrizinc rice production can increase, helping combat stunting and improve nutrition and public health,” Nana said.

Nana Sumarna’s dedication and innovative strategies have significantly boosted the acceptance and success of Inpari IR Nutrizinc rice in Wanayasa, benefiting both local farmers and the broader community.