Tag: commercial applications of biotechnology

Biotechnology is being used to address problems in all areas of agricultural production and processing. This includes plant breeding to raise and stabilize yields; to improve resistance to pests, diseases and abiotic stresses such as drought and cold; and to enhance the nutritional content of foods. 

Genetic modification by the introduction of the recombinant DNA has resulted in the creation of tailor-made plants that can be pest resistant, drought resistant, herbicide resistant, etc. It has supplied alternative to dairy farm industries by modifying plants and animals. It has also resulted in the creation of biofortified crops that have enhanced nutritional values of food.

Hybridisation is the interbreeding between two genetically different organisms from the same or different species. When such interbreeding is between different species it is known as interspecific hybridisation. Genetically modified crops are those that are genetically engineered by introducing the genes of the desired trait (character) into the plants. When the cross is between two different varieties of the same species then it is known as intervarietal hybridisation. So, the correct options are 'Hybridisation means crossing between genetically dissimilar plants and Introducing genes of the desired character into a plant gives genetically modified crop'.

Answer is option A i.e. "1,00,000"
India was home to more than 1,00,000 rice varieties, which displayed diversity in taste, nutrition, pest-resistance and adaptability to a range of conditions.