In April 2025, who developed India's first genome edited rice varieties?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
In April 2025, India's first genome-edited rice variety was developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Genome-Edited Rice: Key Facts
Institute: It was primarily developed by scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), a subsidiary of ICAR.
Technology: It uses CRISPR-Cas9 technology. This technology differs from traditional GMOs because it does not insert foreign DNA, but rather makes precise changes to the plant's existing DNA.
Variety Characteristics: This first variety was primarily developed to improve drought tolerance and fertilizer use efficiency.
Significance: This is a new milestone in the use of biotechnology in India's agriculture sector, helping to address the challenges of climate change in the future.
About ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research)
Established: July 16, 1929
Headquarters: New Delhi
Role: It is the apex body for coordinating, guiding, and managing agricultural research and education in India.