In a major breakthrough for agricultural innovation in Bangladesh, Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) has developed a new high-yielding, zinc-enriched aromatic rice variety, 'GAU Dhan-3', under the leadership of renowned plant breeder Professor Dr. Nasrin Akter Ivy from the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, says the university in a statement.
This is the first rice variety officially registered since the university's renaming, marking a significant milestone in GAU's research journey.
This premium-quality rice, rich in zinc and iron, addresses nutritional challenges like micronutrient deficiencies, especially in children and pregnant women. With its release, GAU's total number of developed crop varieties has reached 90, opening new prospects for agricultural advancement.

Following four years of rigorous research and field trials, including tests in farmers' fields during 2021-2022, GAU Dhan-3 received approval from the National Seed Board on April 20, 2025, after successful evaluation by the Seed Certification Agency.
GAU Dhan-3 matures early, approximately 3 months in the Aman season and 3.5 months in the Boro season and yields 15 per cent more than conventional varieties, producing around 5 to 6 tonnes per hectare.
Its tall plants with thick stems and a high number of tillers make it ideal for dual use, providing both grain and abundant straw. Nutritionally, it is enriched with zinc and iron and contains 26 per cent amylase, aiding digestion and energy metabolism.
The rice features long, slender, and fragrant grains, making it suitable for both domestic consumption and export.
Additionally, it is pest- and disease-resistant and well-adapted to Bangladesh's diverse agro-climatic conditions.
Dr. Ivy stated, "GAU Dhan-3 is not just a variety, it's a bridge between nutrition, productivity and farmers' prosperity. It marks the beginning of a nutrition-focused agricultural transformation in Bangladesh."
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. GKM Mustafizur Rahman added, "This variety is a symbol of GAU's excellence in agricultural research and will greatly contribute to food security and nutrition."
Dr. Ivy has previously developed 13 crop varieties, including four coloured papayas and two varieties each of rice, tomato, bottle gourd and green peas.