DefinePK

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to Pakistan’s agriculture, with projections indicating 10–25% yield losses in staple crops by 2050. Frequent floods, prolonged droughts, and pest infestations have already reduced wheat and rice production by up to 30%, exposing the limitations of traditional breeding and genetically modified crops. CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, when combined with artificial intelligence (AI), offers a faster and more precise route to developing climate-resilient varieties suited to Pakistan’s diverse agroecosystems. A review of recent studies highlights key advances, including AI-assisted sgRNA design, which enhances editing efficiency by 30–50%, and CRISPR-modified wheat and rice lines that show 20–30% improved stress tolerance. Yet, barriers such as complex polyploid genomes, limited genomic resources, and outdated biosafety policies hinder progress. Addressing these challenges through policy reform, capacity-building, and technology integration could transform Pakistan’s agriculture, aligning directly with Sustainable Development Goals on Zero Hunger and Climate Action.