Insights on the genetics, molecular biology and management strategies on emerging false smut pathogenesis in rice

False smut (FS) of rice is a disease that specifically affects the inflorescence and poses a significant threat to global rice grain quality and yield. The increased prevalence of FS in rice-growing regions worldwide can be attributed to several factors, including the widespread adoption of high-yielding cultivars and hybrids, breeding for compact panicle type, enormous use of nitrogenous fertilizers, and changes in climatic conditions. They have a direct impact on rice grain weight, fertility, nutrition, yield sustainability, and overall economic loss. Therefore, it is pivotal to investigate the variables that affect invasion, transmission, pathogenesis, and resistance of FS in rice. The symptoms of FS only become apparent during the late booting stage, which makes its management particularly challenging having no effective strategy for controlling this disease. Moreover, genetic diversity and population structure constantly fluctuate, which is a cause for concern considering the ongoing climate challenges. To develop rice varieties resistant to FS, it is necessary to continuously explore potential sources of resistance (QTLs) in rice and understand the underlying genetics. For early pathogen detection it is essential to develop quick detection techniques, such as PCR-based markers and isothermal amplification. Additionally, a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical practices, along with innovative breeding using gene editing tools for resistant rice varieties, could lead to sustainable management of FS. Nanoparticles and carrier-based targeted delivery of fungicides and bioagents could also offer promising new approaches for managing FS in rice. The study targets a better understanding of FS pathogenesis and host-microbe interactions using rice as a model crop. • Emerging false smut (FS) disease is a global threat for sustainable rice farming. • Exploring potential sources of novel genomic regions for FS resistance is priority. • Nanoparticles offers targeted delivery of bioagents, bio-compounds for FS control. • Rice FS as a model may reveal host microbe interaction in other grain diseases.