Biotechnology and technological advancements in agriculture: A review

Abstract

Biotechnology has revolutionized agriculture by introducing innovative approaches to enhance crop production, resilience, and sustainability. This review examines the pivotal role of biotechnology in addressing the global challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. Key advancements, including genetic engineering, CRISPR-Cas technology, molecular markers, and microbial biotechnology, have led to the development of high-yield, climate-resilient crops, improving pest resistance, stress tolerance, and nutritional quality. The integration of precision agriculture, synthetic biology, and AI further optimizes agricultural practices, providing targeted solutions for nutrient delivery and pest management. Despite these benefits, challenges such as public perception of GMOs, biosafety concerns, intellectual property issues, and economic barriers persist, hindering widespread adoption. This review also emphasizes the future prospects of biotechnology, with a focus on climate- smart agriculture and sustainable practices. Ultimately, the review highlights the necessity of balancing innovation with sustainability to ensure the responsible development and deployment of biotechnological solutions in agriculture, underscoring the importance of collaboration between governments, researchers, and industry stakeholders.