Dharwad: Karnataka Science and Technology Academy chairman Prof AH Rajasab on Thursday stated that artificial intelligence and advanced gene-editing technologies are poised to transform the future of agriculture. He emphasized that viral diseases in crops persist as one of the most significant unresolved challenges in plant science.
No Vaccine for Crop Viral Diseases
Delivering the 2025-26 Prof MK Sethurao Memorial Lecture at the University of Agricultural Sciences in Dharwad, Prof Rajasab noted that while science has developed solutions for many bacterial and fungal diseases in plants, no vaccine exists globally against viral infections in crops. He explained, “Plant immunity against viral diseases is not yet available anywhere in the world. Viral diseases can only be managed, not cured.”
AI Applications in Agriculture
Prof Rajasab highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence in agriculture for soil analysis, crop monitoring, and enhancing farm productivity. He mentioned that several agri-tech companies are already employing satellite imagery and digital tools for soil management and crop planning. Citing case studies from Kotehal village in Davanagere district, he reported that technology-based soil management advice helped farmers boost areca nut yields by over 100 percent. He also underscored the role of remote sensing and GIS technologies in restoring degraded ecosystems and strengthening ecological monitoring.
CRISPR: A Breakthrough in Biotechnology
Discussing biotechnology, Prof Rajasab described CRISPR as one of the most significant breakthroughs in modern science. Unlike conventional genetically modified crops, CRISPR allows precise gene editing without introducing foreign genes into plants. He stated that this technology could aid in developing disease-resistant and climate-resilient crop varieties, especially as agriculture faces mounting pressure from climate change and food insecurity. He added that CRISPR also holds promise for treating inherited genetic disorders in humans.
Ethical Responsibility in Science
Prof Rajasab stressed that rapid scientific advances must be guided by ethical responsibility. He also touched upon emerging fields such as quantum technology and astrobiology, noting that Bengaluru and Andhra Pradesh are becoming key centers for quantum research.
Competitions and Awards
During the programme, inter-university competitions and research synopsis presentation contests for MSc and PhD scholars were held, with cash prizes awarded to winners.
