Breakthrough Genome-Edited Rice Varieties in India

Indian Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the release of two innovative genome-edited rice varieties. Developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), these varieties, named ‘Kamala’ and ‘Pusa DST Rice 1’, are designed to be climate-resilient. They aim to conserve water and enhance yields. This development marks milestone in agricultural biotechnology in India.

Genome Editing Technology

Genome editing employs advanced techniques to modify the DNA of plants. The CRISPR-Cas9 technology is at the forefront of this innovation. It allows precise changes to be made in the plant’s genetic code without introducing foreign DNA. This method is crucial for developing traits that improve resilience and productivity.

DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala)

DRR Dhan 100, also known as Kamala, is engineered for drought tolerance and higher yields. It is based on the popular Samba Mahsuri variety. The editing targets the Cytokinin Oxidase 2 (CKX2) gene. Trials showed a yield increase of 19% over its parent, averaging 5.37 tonnes per hectare. This variety matures approximately 20 days earlier than Samba Mahsuri, making it suitable for diverse growing conditions.

Pusa DST Rice 1

Pusa DST Rice 1 focuses on improving drought and salt tolerance. Developed from the MTU1010 variety, it also uses the SDN1 genome-editing technique. In trials, it outperformed its parent in saline and alkaline soils, with a yield increase of up to 30.4% in coastal salinity conditions. This variety is particularly beneficial for farmers in challenging soil environments.

Environmental Benefits

Cultivating these new rice varieties is projected to yield an additional 4.5 million tonnes of paddy. This increase could lead to a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the shorter growth cycle of Kamala will save approximately 7,500 million cubic metres of water, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Regulatory Approvals

The genome-edited varieties have received necessary biosafety clearances. The Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBC) and the Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) have approved their cultivation under relaxed regulations. This regulatory framework supports the development of genetically edited crops while ensuring safety.

Significance for Indian Agriculture

Rice is a staple food in India, contributing to food security. India ranks second globally in rice production but has lower yields than other leading countries. The introduction of these genome-edited varieties aims to address this yield gap, enhancing food production capacity.

Future Prospects

Research in genome editing is expanding beyond rice. The government has allocated substantial funding for developing genome-edited varieties of other crops, including oilseeds and pulses. This initiative reflects a commitment to advancing agricultural practices through biotechnology.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of genome editing on agricultural sustainability in India.
2. Discuss in the light of recent advancements, the role of biotechnology in enhancing food security.
3. Critically discuss the ethical implications of using CRISPR technology in crop development.
4. What are the challenges faced by Indian agriculture in improving crop yields? How can technology address these issues?

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of genome editing on agricultural sustainability in India.

1. Genome editing enhances crop resilience to climate change, leading to sustainable farming practices.
2. It reduces the need for chemical inputs, promoting environmentally friendly agriculture.
3. Higher yields from genome-edited crops can help meet food demands without expanding agricultural land.
4. Improved water efficiency in crops contributes to better resource management.
5. Genome-edited varieties can be tailored for local conditions, enhancing farming adaptability.

2. Discuss in the light of recent advancements, the role of biotechnology in enhancing food security.

1. Biotechnology enables the development of high-yield, stress-resistant crop varieties, crucial for food security.
2. It allows for the efficient use of resources, reducing waste and increasing productivity.
3. Genome editing can address specific agricultural challenges, such as drought and salinity, improving crop viability.
4. Enhanced nutritional content of crops can contribute to better health outcomes for populations.
5. Biotechnology facilitates faster breeding cycles, accelerating the introduction of improved varieties.

3. Critically discuss the ethical implications of using CRISPR technology in crop development.

1. CRISPR technology raises concerns about potential unintended consequences on ecosystems.
2. Intellectual property rights issues may restrict access to genetic improvements for small farmers.
3. The lack of public understanding and acceptance can lead to resistance against genetically edited crops.
4. Ethical debates center around the manipulation of natural organisms and potential long-term impacts.
5. Regulatory frameworks must balance innovation with safety and ethical considerations.

4. What are the challenges faced by Indian agriculture in improving crop yields? How can technology address these issues?

1. Low yield levels compared to global averages hinder food security and farmer income.
2. Climate change impacts, such as erratic rainfall and temperature variations, threaten productivity.
3. Pests and diseases continue to affect crop health, leading to yield losses.
4. Technology, such as genome editing, can develop resilient varieties that withstand environmental stress.
5. Precision agriculture and data analytics can optimize resource use, improving overall efficiency.