Question of the Day – INDIA’S FIRST GENOME-EDITED RICE VARIETIES
QOTD April 12,2026
Consider the following statements regarding genome-edited rice varieties in India:
- Genome editing involves insertion of foreign DNA into the plant genome.
- Genome-edited crops are regulated in the same manner as genetically modified (GM) crops in India.
- Genome editing techniques can enhance traits like yield and stress tolerance.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect
Genome editing modifies existing genes without necessarily inserting foreign DNA, unlike GM technology.
Statement 2 is incorrect
Certain genome-edited crops (SDN-1 and SDN-2 categories) are exempted from stringent GM regulations in India.
Statement 3 is correct
Genome editing is used to improve traits such as yield, drought tolerance, and disease resistance.
Why in news–
India has recently developed and introduced its first genome-edited rice varieties using advanced gene-editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9. These varieties have been created to improve yield, enhance climate resilience, and reduce input costs without introducing foreign DNA, distinguishing them from traditional genetically modified crops. This development is significant for food security, agricultural sustainability, and marks a major step in the application of modern biotechnology in Indian agriculture.
There are more questions from this topic that you should practice to make your concepts stronger.
Practice Questions (PQ)
PQ1.Consider the following statements:
- CRISPR-Cas9 is a genome-editing tool derived from a bacterial immune system.
- Genome editing can only be applied to plants and not animals.
- Genome editing allows precise modification at specific locations in DNA.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer : (a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
CRISPR-Cas9 originates from bacterial defense mechanisms against viruses.
Statement 2 is incorrect
Genome editing can be applied to animals, plants, and microorganisms.
Statement 3 is correct
It enables targeted and precise changes in the DNA sequence.
PQ2. Consider the following statements regarding genetically modified (GM) crops and genome-edited crops:
- GM crops always involve transgenic modification.
- Genome-edited crops may not involve transgenes.
- Both are identical in terms of regulatory framework in India.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
GM crops typically involve insertion of foreign genes (transgenic).
Statement 2 is correct
Genome editing may only tweak existing genes without adding foreign DNA.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Genome-edited crops have a relatively relaxed regulatory pathway compared to GM crops.
PQ3. Consider the following statements:
- Genome editing can help in developing climate-resilient crops.
- It reduces dependence on chemical inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.
- It is completely free from ethical and biosafety concerns.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Genome editing enables crops to withstand drought, heat, and pests.
Statement 2 is correct
Improved traits can reduce the need for external inputs.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Ethical and biosafety concerns still exist regarding unintended effects and ecological impact.
Previous Year Question (UPSC Prelims)
With reference to agricultural biotechnology in India, consider the following statements:
- Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is responsible for approval of GM crops.
- Bt cotton is the only GM crop commercially approved in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) both 1 and 2
(d) neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
GEAC under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change approves GM crops.
Statement 2 is correct
Bt cotton remains the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India.
