India’s Genome-Edited Rice Varieties

Current Context: India has developed the world’s first genome-edited rice varieties, DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1, using CRISPR-Cas technology to enhance yield and climate resilience.

About Genome-Edited Rice Varieties:

• DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala): Developed by ICAR–IIRR (Indian Institute of Rice Research), Hyderabad, by targeting the CKX2 (Cytokinin Oxidase 2) gene to increase grain numbers per panicle.
• Pusa DST Rice 1: Developed by ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, as an improved version of the fine-grain rice MTU1010 (Cottondora Sannalu).
• Benefits: These varieties promise a 20-30% yield increase, superior drought tolerance, high nitrogen-utilization efficiency, reduced water consumption, and lower greenhouse gas emissions from rice cultivation.
• Approval: Genome editing of Site Directed Nuclease 1 (SDN1) and SDN2 types of genes has been approved under India’s biosafety regulations for general crops.