10.2 FOOD BIOTECHNOLOGY RELATED TO ADVANCED AGRICULTURE IN PAKISTAN

Pakistan is the 5th most populated country in the world having population of over 240 million with an annual growth rate of 2.55%. Rural population is directly dependant on agriculture whereas, increasing trend of urbanization has multiplied the pressure for production of extra food from continuously shrinking agricultural land. To feed this huge population, supply of more, continuous and nutrient enriched food is a huge challenge for the agriculture and the national economy of Pakistan. The importance and crucial role of food biotechnology is obvious to meet the challenges of food security, malnutrition and environmental hazards related to agriculture.

In food Biotechnology, scientists modify the genes of our food sources including domestic animals, plants and microorganisms for production new species. Food biotechnology involves the use of scientific techniques and a wide range of applications that improve the food production, quality, nutritional value, processing, preservation and agriculture sustainability. Academic institutions and research organizations in Pakistan like NIBGE, NIAB, NCEMB, KIBGE and ASAB are engaged in food biotechnology applied research, to address local agricultural and food challenges. In last three decades, food biotechnology has obviously advanced the agriculture in Pakistan by introducing various techniques and technologies that improve crop yield, nutritional value, resistance to pests and tolerance to drought and salt. Examples of role of food biotechnology in advancement of agriculture includes:

10.2.1 Genetically Modified (GM) Crops

GM crops including, wheat, rice, maize, sugarcane have been developed to tolerate harsh environmental conditions and pest resistance, thus increasing yields.

a. In Pakistan, Bt cotton (BT derived from Bacillus thuringiensis) is a prominent example in which 'cry' gen responsible for the pest resistance is obtained from a bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis and transferred to cotton plant. Bt cotton produces its own toxic chemicals to kill the pests including viruses, cotton flies and bolworms, hence there is less need for chemical pesticides and increased productivity of cotton, seed oil and cotton seed cakes (cattle & fish fodder).

b. GM variety of sugarcane, is resistant against sugarcane top borer (pest insect). Sugar yield of this GM variety of sugarcane is significantly higher than natural types.

c. Similarly, GM wheat, sugarcane and potatoes are well grown in phosphate deficient soil thus need of fertilizer is reduced significantly with higher production.

d. GM varieties of wheat, sugarcane and potatoes developed in Pakistan are also drought, heat and frost resistant.

e. Another GM wheat variety is herbicide resistant and grown on large areas of Pakistan.

f. Genetically modified tomatoes and chilies are also been developed and grown in Pakistan.