Biotechnology in Agriculture | Agriculture Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

 Biotechnology can be most accurately described as the application of scientific methods to enhance and modify the usefulness of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Through the years, biotechnology has permeated various sectors, including medicine, agriculture, genetic engineering, and more.
In this, we will explore the utilization of biotechnology in the realm of agriculture and provide a concise overview of its significance.

Application and Important Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture

Agricultural biotechnology can be defined as a collection of scientific methods that leverage DNA and its principles to enhance plants, microorganisms, and animals.

It is arguable that the utilization of biotechnology in agriculture proves to be more efficient than the use of agrochemicals. The latter is often held accountable for causing environmental harm and may not be a practical solution for farmers.

The following points underscore the various ways in which biotechnology has integrated into agriculture:

• Genetic Engineering and Recombinant DNA (rDNA) Technology: This technology involves the deliberate modification of one or more genes in a laboratory setting. It is achieved through the use of recombinant DNA technology, which involves the alteration of an organism's genetic structure.
• Tissue Culture: Tissue culture entails the cultivation of fragments of plant or animal tissue in a controlled environment, allowing them to thrive and continue growing. Isolating the tissue is the initial step in this process.
• Embryo Rescue: This technique involves nurturing immature embryos in a controlled environment, ensuring their survival. It plays a crucial role in preserving endangered seed species, including heritage seeds and culturally significant local grains.
• Somatic Hybridization: Somatic hybridization is a procedure that manipulates the cellular genome through protoplast fusion.
• Molecular-Gene Markers: These are specific DNA segments associated with particular locations within the genome and are a fundamental aspect of genetic engineering.
• Molecular Diagnostics: Molecular diagnostics encompasses a range of techniques used to examine biological markers in the genome and proteome, aiding in the understanding of how cells express their genes as proteins.
• Vaccines: Vaccines are formulations injected into a host's body to trigger a specific immune response. They are vital in preventing diseases such as polio and are currently widely produced to combat diseases like COVID-19.
• Micropropagation: Micropropagation involves the clonal propagation of plants in a closed, sterile environment under controlled conditions.

Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture

The role of biotechnology in agriculture is multifaceted, encompassing several prominent advantages:

• Increased Crop Yield: Biotechnology leads to a substantial rise in crop production through improved disease control and enhanced tolerance to drought and flooding. This not only meets the increasing food demand but also aids farmers in reducing losses.
• Enhanced Crop Protection: Biotechnological methods offer cost-effective solutions for addressing pest-related issues. Farmers have succeeded in modifying crops like cotton, corn, and potatoes to produce proteins that effectively combat pest problems.
• Augmented Nutritional Value: Biotechnology enables farmers to cultivate crops with higher nutritional value, improved flavor, and texture. For instance, it facilitates the cultivation of soybeans with elevated protein content, beans with increased amino acids, and starch-rich potatoes.
• Fresher Produce and Enhanced Taste: Biotechnology contributes to improving the taste and flavor of crops by enhancing the activity of plant enzymes. It also extends the shelf life of produce.
• Chemical Tolerance: Many farmers rely on herbicides for weed control, which can lead to soil erosion. However, genetically engineered crops exhibit resistance to various chemicals, including herbicides, significantly reducing soil erosion.
• Disease Resistance: Viral infections transmitted by insects can be challenging to contain, and the use of insecticides may harm both the soil and produce quality. Genetically modified plants are less susceptible to viral infections, making it easier for farmers to manage crop damage.

While there are numerous benefits associated with the application of biotechnology in agriculture, it is not without its drawbacks. Concerns related to health, societal, and environmental issues exist. For example, concerns about antibiotic resistance, insecticide resistance, the emergence of superweeds, and loss of biodiversity are associated with biotechnology in agriculture. Nonetheless, it is hopeful that ongoing technological advancements will empower scientists to effectively address these concerns and associated risks.

Conclusion

Studying the role of biotechnology in agriculture provides insights into various dimensions and how emerging technologies can revolutionize the agricultural landscape.