Application and Recent Trends of Biotechnology in Sustainable Agriculture: A Brief Review

Abstract

Biotechnology has emerged as one of the key tools in crop improvement and molecular breeding programmes. CRISPR, plant tissue culture, molecular breeding, transgenic development, marker assisted selection (MAS), and animal cloning are regarded as key methods in biotechnology. Over the last two decades this technology has abetted in improved quality, yield, tolerance to both biotic and abiotic stress; and plays a pivotal role in introduction of several new features in crop development programmes. In agricultural sector, it has multifarious applications in crop improvement, fisheries and in livestock enhancement. The introduction of GM and biofortified Crops has proved to be noteworthy in overall crop development programme. Biotechnology in agriculture not only has boosted farmer income in both developed and developing countries but also played a remarkable role in agricultural sustainability. To improve farmers' lifestyles and the status of agriculture while preserving international standards of food quality and nutritional value, it is essential to promote the use of biotechnology in agriculture and related fields. The article opens by defining sustainability and emphasizing the critical role of biotechnology in different fields in attainment of sustainable agriculture.