🔆Genome-Edited Paddy and Its Implications ✅ Paddy Cultivation in India: • Paddy is grown on over 47 million hectares, making it India’s largest food crop by area. • Traditional paddy requires high water (3,000–5,000 litres per kg), causing environmental stress. ✅ Genome Editing vs GM Crops: • Genome editing allows precise changes to a plant’s own DNA without introducing foreign genes. • This is different from genetically modified (GM) crops, which insert genes from other species and face stricter regulations. • India’s 2022 guidelines exempt genome-edited crops without transgenes from lengthy GMO regulations. ✅ Advantages of Genome-Edited Paddy: • Matures earlier (15–20 days), saves water, and is more drought-tolerant. • Reduces input costs and supports sustainable intensification. ✅ Economic and Environmental Challenges: • Paddy cultivation is increasingly costly and less sustainable. • Erratic weather and rising input costs strain farmers. • Short-duration, drought-resilient varieties can help reduce water and fertilizer use. ✅ Recommendations: • Genome-edited strains can improve yield with fewer inputs but should be focused on pulses and oilseeds, not expanding rice-growing areas. • This shift supports sustainability, especially in water-stressed and climate-vulnerable regions. • Public seed systems and farmer training are essential for adoption. ✅ Conclusion: • Genome editing is a powerful tool for agricultural transformation but must align with goals like reducing import dependence and supporting vulnerable farmers. • Its benefits depend on strategic use and scientific progress combined with policy support.