India's Breakthrough: First Ever Genome-Edited Rice Boosts Yield by 19%

In an extraordinary breakthrough in agricultural science, India has crafted the world’s first varieties of genome-edited rice, promising not just higher yields but also a new era for sustainable farming. According to News9 LIVE, these developments could mark the dawn of a second Green Revolution.

A Historic Milestone: India’s First Genome-Edited Rice Varieties

During an unveiling at the Bharat Ratna C Subramaniam Auditorium, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced India’s remarkable feat—developing genome-edited rice, named Kamala and Pusa. These strains were created using CRISPR-Cas technology, marking a first in the world of scientific research, as emphasized by Chouhan.

Kamala & Pusa: Pioneers in Sustainable Agriculture

Kamala, a derivative of the Samba Mahsuri variety, and Pusa promise not only a staggering 19% yield increase but also significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved water efficiency. This innovation not only promises higher productivity but also paves the way for an environmentally sustainable future.

The Environmental Pledge: Reduced Emissions and Water Savings

These new rice varieties promise a 20% reduction in greenhouse emissions and save 7,500 million cubic meters of water, aligning with global calls for environmentally friendly agricultural practices. The varieties also show enhanced resilience to drought, salinity, and extreme weather events, essential traits in today’s changing climate.

CRISPR-Cas Technology: Precision Engineering for a Greener Future

Thanks to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) scientists, these innovations utilize cutting-edge CRISPR-Cas genome-editing. This approach facilitates precise genetic modifications without foreign DNA, fostering a promising path toward future agricultural advancements.

Beyond Rice: The ‘Minus 5 Plus 10’ Formula

Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for modern agriculture, a new ‘Minus 5 Plus 10’ initiative has been introduced. This strategy aims to free up land for other crops by reducing rice cultivation area while maintaining robust rice productivity, aiding India’s overall agricultural diversification.

The Promise of a Second Green Revolution

“The introduction of Kamala and Pusa marks a turning point for India’s agriculture,” says Chouhan, envisioning a better future for both the planet and the country’s farmers. This innovation is not just about yield—it’s about advancing towards a sustainable and resilient agricultural paradigm.

As India celebrates this monumental achievement, the world’s eyes are set on how genome-edited crops can reshape agriculture, championing both productivity and environmental stewardship.