- India’s genome-edited rice gives 25% higher yield and uses less water.
- No foreign DNA used, avoiding GMO classification and related concerns.
- The innovation supports sustainable agriculture and food security.
The Indian Agricultural Research Institute and Indian Rice Research Institute developed two rice varieties—DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1—using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing.
These rice varieties are expected to revolutionize Indian agriculture by saving water through reduced irrigation. They also cut greenhouse gas emissions by 20%. Furthermore, they can be cultivated on 5 million hectares, potentially producing an extra 4.5 million tons of rice. This ensures better productivity without expanding cultivated land.
Genome Editing Breakthrough: India’s Climate-Resilient Rice Sets Global Benchmark
India’s genome-edited rice varieties were approved under relaxed biosafety regulations since they fall under SDN1 and SDN2 categories, exempting them from GMO restrictions. This regulatory clarity has accelerated the path from lab to field.
The varieties were derived from the popular Samba Mahsuri and MTU1010 strains. They were enhanced to overcome limitations like long maturation time and vulnerability to pests and salinity. This development was achieved without compromising taste or cooking quality.
Backed by a ₹500 crore budget for genome editing, ICAR has extended this effort to other essential crops such as pulses and oilseeds. This initiative aligns with the national agenda of achieving food security and sustainable development under the Viksit Bharat mission.
Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s “Minus 5, Plus 10” formula aims to optimize land use by reducing paddy acreage and boosting output. It allows diversification into other key crops. This approach also reduces environmental stress and ensures efficient water use.
India’s genome-edited rice is a bold step toward future-ready farming—combining scientific innovation, environmental care, and agricultural self-reliance.
“India’s commitment to leveraging advanced biotechnological tools… is inspiring global advancements.” — Prof. Rajeev Varshney, Murdoch University
