– University of Milan has isolated mutant rice varieties that grow only up to 10 cm (~4 inches).
– Sapienza University of Rome focuses on optimizing genes for higher growth efficiency.
– Efforts are underway to increase protein content in rice by modifying the embryo-to-starch ratio.
The development of “super-dwarf” rice tailored for cultivation under extraterrestrial conditions underscores scientists’ growing focus on self-sustaining food systems for future space exploration. India’s promising strides in aerospace technology-including ISRO’s lunar missions-make innovations like these relevant. As human presence beyond Earth becomes viable through international collaborations or indigenous initiatives, creating resilient food sources will be crucial for astronaut health.
Given India’s expertise in agricultural research (like ICAR’s work) and a fast-growing interest in space science through programs like Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan missions, there is potential scope for India’s scientists to contribute toward similar projects leveraging native biodiversity such as local dwarf crop varieties. Such interdisciplinary efforts combining agriculture with aerospace coudl enhance India’s role globally while maintaining nutritional security during aspiring interplanetary ventures.
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