Rice cultivation resumes in Iraq's Diyala after six-year hiatus

DIYALA, Iraq — Rice farming is returning to Iraq's Diyala province after a six-year suspension caused by drought and water shortages, the provincial directorate of agriculture said. Spokesman Mohammed al-Mendilawi said the current summer agricultural plan calls for rice to be planted across 25,000 dunums in areas including Baladruz, Muqdadiyah, Khales and Azim. Al-Mendilawi said rice production had been halted entirely during previous water crises, but autumn rainfall has replenished reserves and created suitable conditions for planting. Agricultural teams are monitoring the fields and providing technical support to farmers, he added, with the aim of achieving high yields. Rice has long been central to Diyala's rural economy, supporting thousands of farming families and related sectors tied to harvest, transport and marketing. Local residents say they are waiting for the province's signature amber rice to return to markets. Farmer Mohammed al-Obaidi said amber rice is distinguished by its aroma and flavor and forms part of Diyala's agricultural identity. Resident Ali Hashim said the resumption of local production could reduce dependence on imported rice and expressed hope that amber rice would return to local tables this season.