Genetic Engineering In Agriculture

'Genetic Engineering’ is defined as the “process of modifying an organism through the artificial manipulation, reconfiguration, and replication of DNA or other molecules such as nucleic acids”. It refers to the transfer of desired genes from one organism to another and is helpful in the creation of modified foods by introducing the desired gene into the body, resulting in faster growth of an organism. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) carries the genetic information for an organism's development and functioning, including crop plants.

Genetic engineering is helping increase crop yields and prevent droughts and natural disasters. The use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) reduces the amount of pesticides to be sprayed and increases crop yield.

Advantages of Genetic Engineering

It can be used to get the following advantages over traditional agriculture:

Production of New Foods

Genetic engineering helps in food modification. For example, we can modify a fruit’s gene to resist extremely harsh climatic conditions, which can withstand natural disasters like droughts and tsunamis. Scientists can also enhance the medicinal and nutritional values of foods.

Altering growth in Plants

Genes of plants can be altered in such a way that the plant can grow at a faster rate. The GMO plants can withstand…