Global Rice News

A captivating picture of a sleeping cat cuddling a fish has emerged from a sprawling rice field in Thailand. This stunning image, created using vibrant rainbow seedlings, serves as an embodiment of a traditional proverb about abundance. Farmer Tanyapong Jaikham and his diligent team strategically planted these seedlings in various sections of the rice field, located in Chiang Rai province, to form adorable cartoon cats, with the hope of attracting cat lovers and tourists alike.

The effectiveness of this creation greatly depends on GPS coordinates, which are used to carefully position the seedlings according to the initial sketch of the artist. As the plants grow, their hues gradually transform, resulting in a visually mesmerizing spectacle. The final harvest stage reveals the rice straw artwork of Cooper, the original model cat. In order to provide a unique viewing experience for visitors, viewing towers are being constructed in the surrounding area. These towers offer a bird’s-eye view of the artwork, which is inspired by the popular Thai saying, “There is fish in the water and rice in the fields.”

Thailand, the world’s second-largest rice exporter, intends to ship 8.5 million metric tons of rice this year, cementing its position in the global rice market after India. This stunning display not only attracts tourists but also provides an educational opportunity for young individuals interested in the fusion of art and technology. As Tanyapong Jaikham points out, “Rice was previously mainly regarded as a food source, but with this innovative approach, we can simultaneously develop tourism and agriculture.”

This remarkable endeavor showcases the creative potential of agriculture and highlights its role as a catalyst for promoting tourism and cultural development. The enchanting images produced in this rice field symbolize the harmonious coexistence of nature, art, and human ingenuity.

Source: [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com)