A Review on Biotech Innovations in Seed Technology for Robust Crop Production
Shruti Mallikarjun Kolur *
Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture GIETU, Gunupur, Odisha, India.
Anand Burud
Floriculture and Landscaping Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture Arabhavi, UHS, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India.
M. Ramasamy
ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Virinjipuram-632104, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu, India.
V. Sampath
Department of Biochemistry, Sri Sankara Arts and Science College, Enathur, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu-631 561, India.
Sushma Raj Chellem
KL College of Agriculture Koneru Lakshmaiah Educational Foundation Vaddeswaram, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Satya Narayan Satapathy
Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Ankita Rout
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University Bhubaneswar -751003, Odisha, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This article delves into the significant progress and future potential of biotechnological innovations in seed technology within the context of India's agriculture, providing an in-depth examination of how these advancements are transforming crop production. It traces the evolution from traditional methods of seed improvement to the adoption of advanced biotech applications, emphasizing the crucial contributions of genetic engineering and transgenic seeds in overcoming key agricultural hurdles. The review spotlights the introduction of genome editing, marker-assisted selection (MAS), and nanotechnology, and their sophisticated benefits in boosting crop resilience, productivity, and nutritional value. It also discusses the intricate regulatory and ethical considerations surrounding genetically modified (GM) crops, such as intellectual property rights and public opinion, which significantly influence the acceptance and progress of biotech seeds. The discussion extends to the environmental and socio-economic impacts of these technologies, weighing the advantages for sustainability and food security against concerns over biodiversity and the welfare of farmers. Additionally, the review addresses the challenges and prospects that climate change introduces, underscoring the necessity for innovative seed technologies in adaptation efforts. It also points out the critical role of collaborations between public and private sectors in propelling seed technology forward, ensuring that farmers throughout India can access these breakthroughs. By exploring these aspects, the article envisions a future for Indian agriculture where biotechnological innovations in seed technology play a key role in promoting sustainable, efficient, and resilient farming practices, ultimately contributing to the nation's food security and economic prosperity.
Keywords: Biotechnology, genomics, nanotechnology, sustainability, genetic-engineering, agricultural hurdles, crop production, food security, natural resources