How did India develop genome edited rice?, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• India became the first country to develop two rice varieties using genome editing technology.
  • The varieties are:
    • DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) – derived from Samba Mahsuri
      • Pusa DSR Rice 1 – derived from MTU1010
    • Developed under ICAR’s leadership using Site-Directed Nuclease (SDN)-3 technology.
  • These crops are not GM since no foreign genes are inserted; they are considered non-transgenic.

Detailed Insights: 1. What is genome edited rice?

• Genome editing involves precise mutation using technologies like SDN-1, SDN-2, and SDN-3.
  • India used SDN-3 which edits the plant’s own genome without introducing foreign DNA, hence exempt from GM crop regulation in many countries.
  • The process enhances desired traits—like yield, early maturity, and resilience—via site-specific genetic edits.

2. Features of the new varieties:

• Kamala (DRR Dhan 100):
  • Yield: 5.3 tons/hectare
    • 20 days earlier maturity
    • High nitrogen use efficiency, drought tolerance
  • Pusa DSR Rice 1:
    • 14.66% higher yield than parent
    • Thrives in alkaline soil and water-scarce coastal zones

3. ICAR-led Innovation:

• Multi-institutional effort tested across 25 locations under All India Coordinated Research Project on Rice (2023–2024).
  • Scientists assure transparency and scientific validation.
  • Aimed at improving food security amid climate and water stress.

4. Controversies:

• Farmer representative Venugopal Badaravada alleged lack of field-level transparency and was removed from ICAR’s governing body.
  • Coalition for a GM-Free India claimed:
    • Editing violates biodiversity and IPR norms.
      • India has no law regulating genome-edited crops.
      • Technology risks being corporatised through patents and proprietary controls.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Site-Directed Nuclease (SDN) Techniques:
  • SDN-1 & SDN-2: Small mutations or base edits.
    • SDN-3: Larger edits including DNA insertion/deletion within the native genome.
  • Non-transgenic (non-GMO): No foreign DNA is used or integrated.

Significance:

• Signals India’s biotechnological maturity in crop breeding.
  • May reduce dependence on GM imports, with enhanced domestic capability.
  • Balances productivity with environmental constraints like water scarcity and soil salinity.
  • Raises key issues around biosafety, regulatory frameworks, farmers’ rights, and patent transparency.

Mains Mock Question:

Distinguish between genetically modified crops and genome-edited crops. Critically evaluate the benefits and concerns arising from India’s recent development of genome-edited rice varieties.