Improved Varieties of BT Cotton: A Boon for Farmers
In recent decades, the cultivation of BT cotton has come as a relief to farmers, especially in India, where it has become the most widely grown genetically modified crop since its approval in 2002. The introduction of BT cotton has led to a significant rise in crop productivity and reduced the use of insecticides.
To address the challenges of disease and pest attacks faced by farmers, genetically modified BT cotton was developed. The genetic modification involves the insertion of a gene from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) into cotton plants. This gene produces a toxin that is lethal to cotton pests such as bollworms.
Improved varieties of BT cotton have been developed over the years by agricultural researchers to meet the specific needs of farmers. These varieties have different traits, such as drought tolerance, enhanced productivity, and disease resistance to address the pressing issues that farmers encounter. Here are some of the improved varieties of BT cotton that have been developed:
1. Bollgard II:
This is an improved version of Bollgard, developed by Monsanto. It is genetically modified to provide resistance to both bollworm and armyworm pests. It has an advanced trait that can increase the productivity of cotton crops.
2. Mech-12:
Mech -12 is one of the earliest BT cotton varieties developed in India by the Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Ltd. It has a range of characteristics that make it resistant to Indian bollworm and other pests. The variety is known for its improved crop yield, and resistance to water stress.
3. RCH-2 Bt:
RCH-2 is a high yielding BT variety developed by Rasi Seeds in partnership with Bayer Crop Science. It is characterized by its high productivity levels, superior fiber quality, and resistance to diseases and pests. It is designed to withstand climatic conditions including insecticide and fertilizers.
4. Brahma:
Brahma is one of the varieties of BT cotton developed by the Central Institute for Cotton Research in India. It is resistant to resistance to bollworm and pink bollworm pests, and it is reported to have high yield potential. The variety has shown to be adaptable to a wide range of soil and water conditions.
Improved varieties of BT cotton have brought about significant changes and benefits to farmers. The use of these improved varieties has led to yields that are as high as 10% more than conventional cotton varieties. This increase in yield results in higher profits for farmers. Also, these varieties have reduced the use of insecticides drastically, which is not just beneficial for the farmers’ pocket but also to the environment.
Although improved varieties of BT cotton hold promise for the future, they need to be carefully evaluated before they are adopted on a large scale. Still, this much is clear, BT cotton has been a game-changer in the farming community, and the advanced BT cotton varieties have only amplified the benefits further.