Source: The post India develops climate-resilient genome-edited rice varieties has been created, based on the article “How did India develop genome edited rice?” published in “The Hindu” on 15 May 2025. India develops climate-resilient genome-edited rice varieties
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-bio-technology
Context:India has become the first country to develop rice varieties using genome editing. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that the seeds will be released within six months. This step aims to meet growing food demand and address climate challenges.
For detailed information on Genome-Edited Rice Varieties read this article here
Development of Genome-Edited Rice Varieties
Introduction of New Varieties: Two rice varieties—DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1—have been developed using genome editing. DRR Dhan 100 is derived from Samba Mahsuri, and Pusa DST Rice 1 is developed from MTU1010. The research was led by ICAR scientists in collaboration with other institutions.
Performance of DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala)
- Higher Yield and Early Maturity: Kamala recorded an average yield of 5.37 tonnes per hectare, compared to 4.5 tonnes for Samba Mahsuri. It matures 20 days earlier, which helps save water, fertilizer, and reduces methane emissions.
- Climate Resilience and Efficiency: The variety shows strong drought tolerance and high nitrogen use efficiency. These traits make Kamala suitable for climate-resilient farming and better resource use.
Performance of Pusa DST Rice 1
- Improved Yield in Stress Conditions: Pusa DST Rice 1 showed a yield of 3,508 kg per hectare, which is 9.66% higher than MTU1010 under inland salinity stress. It also performed better under alkaline soils with a 14.66% yield gain, and under coastal salinity stress with a 30.4% advantage.
- Adaptation to Soil Conditions: Its tolerance to various soil stresses makes it ideal for cultivation in regions with problematic soil types, ensuring stable productivity.
Technology Used in the Innovation
- Genome Editing Tools: The varieties were developed using SDN-1 and SDN-2 genome editing methods. SDN-1 causes natural DNA repair after a cut, while SDN-2 guides the cell’s repair process. Both techniques do not insert foreign genes.
- Scientific Recognition: Pusa DST Rice 1 was described in a 2020 peer-reviewed paper, now cited in over 300 studies. Kamala’s paper is awaiting publication. Both varieties are approved by the international scientific community.
Clarifying Their Genetic Status
- Not Genetically Modified (GM) Crops: These are not GM crops. Unlike SDN-3, no foreign DNA is introduced. Only native genes are altered. The mutation process is precise and natural.
- Regulatory Exemptions: Many countries exempt such genome-edited crops from GM regulations. These varieties were field-tested during 2023 and 2024 under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Rice.
Rising Concerns and Criticisms
- Questions on Transparency: Venugopal Badaravada, a former ICAR member, termed the announcement premature. He demanded clear data and field-based validation. ICAR expelled him, accusing him of spreading misinformation.
- Legal and Sovereignty Issues: The Coalition for a GM-Free India questioned the legality and safety of gene editing. They said the tools are under IPR ownership, which threatens farmers’ seed rights. They urged the government to disclose IPR details immediately.
Conclusion
India’s genome-edited rice offers higher yield and climate resilience. But it also raises valid concerns over IPR, testing transparency, and seed sovereignty that must be addressed.
Question for practice:
Discuss the benefits and concerns associated with India’s newly developed genome-edited rice varieties.
