Q. What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology ? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society?

Model Answer:

Applied Biotechnology Achievements and Societal Impact

Applied biotechnology has emerged as a powerful tool for addressing societal challenges, with significant research and developmental achievements across various sectors. These advancements hold immense potential for uplifting poorer sections of society.

Key achievements in applied biotechnology include:

1. Agricultural Biotechnology:
• Genetically modified crops with enhanced nutritional value (e.g., Golden Rice with vitamin A)
• Drought-resistant crop varieties (e.g., water-efficient maize)

These developments can benefit small farmers by:
– Increasing crop yields, leading to improved food security and higher incomes
– Reducing the need for pesticides, thereby lowering input costs

2. Medical Biotechnology:
• Development of new vaccines (e.g., mRNA COVID-19 vaccines) and gene therapies
• Advancements in personalized medicine based on genetic profiling

Impact on poorer sections:
– Affordable vaccines and treatments for diseases prevalent in developing regions
– Potential for cost-effective diagnostic tools, improving healthcare access

3. Industrial Biotechnology:
• Production of biofuels and biodegradable materials
• Development of enzyme-based industrial processes

Benefits for economically weaker sections:
– Job creation in new biotechnology-based industries
– Access to cheaper, eco-friendly products (e.g., biodegradable packaging)

4. Environmental Biotechnology:
• Bioremediation techniques for pollution control
• Development of biosensors for environmental monitoring

Potential impact:
– Improved living conditions through better waste management and pollution control
– Local employment opportunities in environmental remediation projects

These achievements in applied biotechnology can significantly contribute to uplifting poorer sections of society by:

• Enhancing food security and agricultural productivity
• Improving access to healthcare and reducing medical costs
• Creating new employment opportunities in emerging sectors
• Addressing environmental challenges that disproportionately affect the poor

For example, genetically modified crops resistant to pests (e.g., Bt cotton) have helped small farmers reduce pesticide use and increase yields. Similarly, the development of affordable diagnostic tools (e.g., paper-based tests) can improve early disease detection in resource-limited settings.

Conclusion: Applied biotechnology offers promising solutions for socio-economic disparities, but requires ethical considerations and inclusive policies to ensure equitable access and benefits.