Question 89 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Science and
Technology

Question

With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of 'genome sequencing', often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future?
1. Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants.
2. This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants.
3. It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. 1, 2, and 3

Strategy: Evaluate each statement by verifying its alignment with established applications of genome sequencing in agriculture, such as identifying tolerance genes, accelerating crop development, and understanding host-pathogen interactions.

Key Info: Genome sequencing refers to determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome at a single time. In Indian agriculture, genome sequencing of crops has become a vital tool to improve productivity and resilience.

**Disease resistance and drought tolerance:** By identifying specific genetic markers, scientists can locate genes associated with important traits like disease resistance or drought tolerance. This enables precise breeding and marker-assisted selection.

**Accelerating crop improvement:** Traditionally, crop improvement via breeding was time-consuming due to the need for multiple generations. Genome sequencing enables rapid identification of desirable genes, shortening the time required to develop and release improved crop varieties.

**Understanding host-pathogen relationships:** Genome analysis of both crops and their pathogens provides insights into mechanisms of infection and resistance. This helps design targeted strategies for disease management.

Examples include the sequencing of rice, wheat, and chickpea genomes by Indian research institutes, leading to enhanced varieties with better yield and resilience. Institutions like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) are at the forefront of such research.

Genome sequencing also supports precision agriculture, helps conserve genetic diversity, and forms a foundation for genetic engineering and gene editing (such as CRISPR), further expanding its significance in sustainable agriculture.

Answer

Option A: 1 only

Answer

Option B: 2 and 3 only

Answer

Option C: 1 and 3 only