Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Marker-assisted selection (MAS) and molecular breeding allow researchers to introduce specific resistance genes into highly popular, commercial crop varieties without altering their premium agronomic and quality traits.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Pusa Basmati 1718 is a molecular marker-assisted backcross-derived version of the iconic rice variety, Pusa Basmati 1121.
Pusa Basmati 1121 is highly acclaimed for its extraordinary kernel elongation after cooking, pleasant aroma, and excellent grain quality, which revolutionized the Basmati export sector.
However, it was highly susceptible to Bacterial Leaf Blight (BLB), a devastating disease caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae.
To address this vulnerability, scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, introgressed two broad-spectrum BLB resistance genes, namely \( \text{xa13} \) and \( \text{Xa21} \), from the donor parent into Pusa Basmati 1121.
The resulting line, Pusa Basmati 1718, retains all the cooking characteristics, grain length, and yield attributes of its parent variety while offering strong resistance to BLB.
It also features stronger stems, which reduces lodging during high wind conditions compared to Pusa Basmati 1121.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Pusa Basmati 1718 is an improved, disease-resistant version of Pusa Basmati 1121.