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India Launches First Genome-Edited Rice Varieties

  • 05 May 2025

On 5th May 2025, Agriculture Minister launched India’s first genome-edited rice varieties developed by ICAR, making India the first country to achieve this milestone.

Key Points

  • Historic Launch: DRR Dhan 100 Kamala and Pusa DST Rice 1 were developed for 10 Indian states including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu.
  • Higher Yields: DRR Dhan 100 Kamala matures 15–20 days earlier with 25% higher yield; Pusa DST Rice 1 is salinity/alkalinity tolerant with 30% more yield under saline conditions.
  • Large-Scale Impact: Cultivation across 5 million hectares could yield an additional 4.5 million tons of paddy.
  • Climate Resilience: ICAR calls it a major step towards climate-resilient, high-yield agriculture.