IAEA/RCA Project Progress Review Meeting on Mutant Multi-location Trials (MMT) and Mutation Enhancement of Genetic Diversity will be held from 13-17 March 2006 at BATAN (National Nuclear Energy Agency), Indonesia.

Radiation induced mutation breeding techniques of crops are considered as the most direct and economical approaches to developing new variety from well-adapted and locally accepted germplasm of various crops. RCA with the support of the IAEA has been carrying out radiation induced mutation breeding project for many years. As one of the endeavors of the project, RCA Member States have been exchanging mutant varieties each other for their acceptability and suitability in different environment.

At the meeting in Indonesia in March 2006, the results of the mutant multi-location trials (MMT) will be reviewed for further implementation. The meeting will review and evaluate the achievements made in the past three years and will seek how the achievements can be utilized by the end-users. Also, the establishment and operation of the Mutant Germplasm Network (MGN) for crop improvement will be revisited for maximum effectiveness.

For more information: Mr Soeranto Human: Soeranto@batan.go.id