Technology Package for Induced Mutagenesis

Abstract

It is more than 80 years since mutagens were identified as a source of inducing genetic variability in a living system. Since then scientific community is deeply engaged to apply mutation techniques in the crop improvement program. Worldwide activities have generated a massive amount of literature and have led to the release of over 3,000 mutant plant varieties. Many research papers are published each year which are just a stereotype model year after year and we are still repeating some of our experiments as routine activities. Time has come to highlight the history of the past work, rise and fall, reality and limitations of achievements, and prospects of mutation technology. It is now necessary to assess the present status of mutation after extensive research activities and must implement whatever correction is needed to develop a complete package of mutation technology for maximum commercial utilization of the mutation technique. The knowledge generated so far on vegetatively propagated crops, especially on ornamental crops will work as a model system to prepare a complete technology package for future need-based planning of successful and accurate application of mutation techniques in the crop improvement program. The article will provide an authoritative review account of many important basic aspects and technical advancements in mutation technology.