Scientists are planting a CRISPR/Cas9-modified rice variety in test fields across India after a recent relaxation of regulations on gene-edited crops.
The shift allows field trials of crops developed through gene-editing processes SDN1 and SDN2, which alter plant traits by making edits in the gene without adding any new genetic material. An Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBSC) will oversee the progress of the crops and will certify that gene-edited crops are free of foreign DNA before their commercial release.
These advances reflect a surge in scientific research and innovation in plant genome editing. Public sector research laboratories nationwide are actively engaged in initiatives to address agricultural challenges and enhance crop resilience through cutting-edge genetic technologies.
