Agricultural technology has been increasingly adopted in Nedong district to improve production and grain output. [Photo by Palden Nyima/chinadaily.com.cn]

"Developing superior seeds addresses 'what to plant', while standardized cultivation technology solves 'how to grow well'," said Cai Shengguan, a professor and associate dean of the Department of Agronomy at Zhejiang University and scientist of the China Agriculture Research System.

Cai noted that only when new varieties are planted, supporting techniques adopted and tangible income gained can scientific innovation truly be transformed into long-term food safety on the plateau.

Li Jiexia and Guo Yuhe contributed to this story.