Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (R) of Thailand tours a rice field at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) during a visit in the town of Los Banos, Laguna province south of Manila on November 17, 2009. Princess Sirindhorn is here to lead in the celebrations of the institute's 50th anniversary. (Getty Images)

Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (R) talks to International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) director general Robert Zeigler during an inspection of rice grain varieties in Los Banos, Laguna, south of Manila November 17, 2009. Princess Sirindhorn attended the 50th anniversary celebration of IRRI and a forum by rice scientists on food security to emphasize the ongoing need for rice science to address the challenges of poverty and climate change. (Reuters)