Genome Editing in Cotton Research: A New Technique to Boost Yields

The Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR) is developing a novel technique to enhance cotton plant yields through genome editing, a method that involves precise changes in DNA sequencing. This approach is distinct from genetic engineering, which introduces additional genes. CICR director VN Waghmare noted that genome editing aims to create compact cotton plants with higher boll formation, a goal that may be achieved within the next two or three years. The Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) is also encouraging the use of genome editing, with recent releases of new paddy varieties suitable for dry conditions.

Key Takeaways:

• The Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR) is developing a genome editing technique to enhance cotton yields through precise changes in DNA sequencing.
• Genome editing is distinct from genetic engineering, which involves introducing additional genes, and aims to create compact cotton plants with higher boll formation.
• CICR director VN Waghmare stated that the goal of genome editing is to develop compact cotton plants with higher boll formation, a goal that may be achieved within the next two or three years.
• The Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) is also encouraging the use of genome editing, releasing new paddy varieties suitable for dry conditions.
• CICR is considering the use of inter-cropping practices, where multiple crops are grown together, to avoid the use of weed killers due to the presence of other plants.
• Farmers in predominantly paddy belts are starting to grow cotton due to its rugged nature and potential for higher yields.
• Inter-cropping practices may limit the use of herbicide-tolerant seeds, which can be detrimental to crop yields.

Statistics:

• CICR aims to achieve results from genome editing within the next two or three years.
• The ICAR has released new paddy varieties suitable for dry conditions.
• Cotton farmers are currently using Bt cotton, a genetically engineered variety that provides resistance to the bollworm pest.
• Farmers in Gadchiroli are adopting cotton as a crop due to its rugged nature.
• The use of herbicide-tolerant seeds may not be beneficial in inter-cropping practices.

Sources:

• Times of India (TOI)
• Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR)
• Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR)