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

(i) Made crops more tolerant to abiotic stresses (cold, drought, salt, heat).

(ii) Reduced reliance on chemical pesticides (pest-resistant crops).

(iii) Helped to reduce post-harvest losses.

(iv) Increased efficiency of mineral usage by plants (this prevents early exhaustion of fertility of soil).