On February 11, 2025, the ‘Workshop on Biotechnology Applications for Crop Improvement: Key Developments’ was held at the University of Agricultural Sciences in Raichur, Karnataka. This event was a collaborative effort between the University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, and Biotech Consortium India Limited (BCIL), supported by the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII). It brought together renowned researchers and industry leaders to explore the critical role of biotechnology in developing crop varieties that are high-yielding, resilient to pests and diseases, and able to withstand the impacts of climate change.
The event highlighted the growing significance of biotechnology in shaping the future of agriculture. This focus aligns with the Union Budget’s commitment to transforming the agricultural sector, with key initiatives such as the National Mission on High Yielding Seeds, expanded seed availability, and a push to enhance cotton productivity.
“The government’s push for technology-friendly reforms in the recent budget is a crucial step toward agricultural modernization. Bt cotton has already demonstrated the transformative potential of agricultural biotechnology in India. To fully realize this potential across a broader range of crops, it is imperative that we have a supportive regulatory environment at both central and state levels,” said Dr Vibha Ahuja, Chief General Manager, Biotech Consortium India Limited. “Emerging regulatory policies for agri-biotechnology must facilitate responsible innovation, building on the lessons learned from Bt cotton, while ensuring that farmers have access to improved seeds and technologies.”
Dr Ahuja’s highlighted the need for a robust regulatory framework to support the development and commercialization of biotech crops. Experts also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and ensuring that the benefits of biotechnology reach smallholder farmers.
“GM crops, including the highly successful Bt cotton, have demonstrated their potential in ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity across the globe. Aligning with the government’s larger mission, the adoption of genetically modified crops in India can contribute significantly to improving yields, enhancing climate resilience, and ensuring food security,” said Dr Paresh Verma, Head AAI, Executive Director, Bioseeds Division, DCM Shriram Limited.
Additionally, he advocated for the integration of gene editing with modern agricultural technologies like precision agriculture. “With advancements in genetic engineering and gene editing, Indian agriculture stands at the cusp of a breakthrough that can enhance both productivity and sustainability. Leveraging these technologies alongside precision agriculture tools such as drones and data analytics will provide farmers with smarter, more efficient solutions to tackle climate challenges and pests,” he said.
The success of Bt cotton in India serves as a powerful example of how biotechnology can transform agriculture and benefit farmers. Since the introduction of genetically engineered (GE) crops in 1996, there has been a marked increase in yield improvements in crops like maize, soybean, cotton, and canola. The emergence of gene editing since 2012 has further revolutionized crop improvement efforts, offering faster and more precise methods to develop resilient crop varieties. Coupled with innovations in precision agriculture, these technologies have the potential to drive a new wave of agricultural progress.
Following the exemption of SDN-1 and SDN-2 gene-edited plants in March 2022, FSII has been jointly organizing workshops across various states to promote awareness and discussions on genetically modified (GM) and gene-edited crops. These initiatives have played a key role in expanding the dialogue around crop improvement technologies and their role in sustainable agriculture, ensuring that policymakers, researchers, and farmers are equipped with the necessary knowledge to adopt these solutions effectively.
Appreciating the efforts of FSII and BCIL, Dr M. Hanumanthappa, Vice-Chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur said, “The University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, is proud to host this workshop along with FSII & BCIL, which will serve as a platform to build consensus on the adoption of GM technology in Indian agriculture. With the government’s financial backing for precision agriculture and climate-resilient seeds, now is the time for the industry to collaborate and accelerate the deployment of these technologies to improve farmer livelihoods and strengthen national food security.”
Experts are expecting these insights to contribute significantly to the development and adoption of innovative seed technologies, ultimately empowering farmers and strengthening India's agricultural sector. The commitment to advancing biotechnology research and its application in Indian agriculture remains strong, with a clear focus on building a more prosperous and sustainable future for all stakeholders.
