CICR developing genome editing technique for higher cotton yield
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Nagpur: The Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR) is now working on a technique to tweak the DNA of cotton plants to ensure higher yield. This method, called genome editing, is among the latest techniques adopted for agricultural research in the country.
Genome editing is different from the more complex genetic engineering technology, which involves introducing an additional gene. Cotton farmers are currently using Bt cotton, a genetically engineered variety with an additional gene that provides resistance to the bollworm pest.
Speaking to TOI on the sidelines of a seminar on climate-resilient farming, CICR director VN Waghmare said that genetic editing involves changes in DNA sequencing.
The aim is to develop compact cotton plants with higher boll formation. It may take another two or three years to achieve the results, he said.
Former director of CICR, CD Mayee, said that the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) is also encouraging the use of genome editing. Recently, new varieties of paddy were released, which can help in developing varieties suitable for dry conditions.
Regarding the reports on rampant use of illegal herbicide-tolerant (HT) seeds in the region, Waghmare said it may not be a prudent idea. This is because farmers here adopt the practice of inter-cropping, where no single crop is grown on a stretch. This means that even if farmers use HT seeds, they won't be able to use weed killers due to the presence of other plants.
Waghmare noted that areas in predominantly paddy belts have also started growing cotton. For example, the trend has begun in Gadchiroli too. Farmers are adopting it because of the rugged nature of the crop.
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