Plants, bacteria, fungi and animals whose genes have been altered by manipulation are called Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO).

GM plants have been useful in many ways. Genetic modification has:

1. Made crops more tolerant to abiotic stresses (cold, drought, salt, heat).
2. Reduced reliance on chemical pesticides (pest-resistant crops).
3. Helped to reduce post-harvest losses.
4. Increased efficiency of mineral usage by plants (this prevents early exhaustion of fertility of soil).
5. Enhanced nutritional value of food, e.g., Vitamin ‘A’ enriched rice.