Which is the first country to develop genome-based rice variety?

Correct option is B

Correct answer: (b) India

Explanation:

• In May 2025, India became the first country in the world to develop genome-based rice varieties using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology.
• Two varieties were developed:
• DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) – developed by ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research.
• Pusa DST Rice 1 – developed by ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi.
• These varieties are designed to improve yield, climate resilience, and stress tolerance.

Information Booster:

• Genome editing allows precise alterations in DNA without introducing foreign genes, making it faster and more efficient than traditional breeding.
• This breakthrough is a step toward self-reliance in food security and climate-smart agriculture.
• India’s genome-edited rice is not classified as GMO, thus exempted from strict biosafety regulations under specific conditions.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) China – Has invested heavily in biotechnology but was not the first to release genome-edited rice varieties.
• (c) The US – Leading in genome research but focused more on maize, soybean, and wheat.
• (d) France – Part of EU, which has strict regulations on gene editing in crops.