Author(s): Farhana Sultana, Adeel Rehman and Nethmi Jayawardena

Abstract: Urban horticulture in South Asia is undergoing rapid transformation due to the convergence of genome editing technologies and soilless cultivation systems. As densely populated cities across the region experience mounting pressures on land, water, and food supply chains, hydroponics presents a scalable and resource-efficient alternative to conventional agriculture. Although hydroponics is widely recognized for its ability to optimize nutrient delivery and reduce environmental stressors, recent advances in genome editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas offer new opportunities to enhance plant resilience, productivity, and nutrient-use efficiency. This article explores the convergence of genome editing and hydroponic systems as an integrated model for climate-smart urban horticulture in South Asia. It examines the scientific basis, technological innovations, and regional relevance of combining precise genetic interventions with controlled-environment agriculture to address key challenges such as water scarcity, urban pollution, and climate variability. By integrating genome-edited traits such as improved root architecture, accelerated nutrient uptake, abiotic stress tolerance, and enhanced phytonutrient content hydroponic systems can be optimized to achieve higher yields per unit area while reducing inputs and mitigating risks associated with climate change. The researchevaluates pre-2024 empirical evidence on gene-edited vegetable crops, nutrient film technique (NFT) systems, deep-water culture models, and vertical hydroponic designs to assess synergistic opportunities. The findings indicate that genome editing can significantly reinforce hydroponic productivity, especially when aligned with region-specific constraints and consumer preferences. The paper proposes a conceptual framework for integrating genome editing with hydroponics to revolutionize urban horticulture in South Asia, emphasizing technological feasibility, sustainability, and policy implications. Ultimately, the integration of genome editing and hydroponic horticulture offers a transformative pathway to strengthen food security, reduce environmental footprints, and establish resilient, climate-smart urban agriculture systems suitable for rapidly growing megacities across the region.

DOI: 10.22271/27889289.2025.v5.i1a.226

Pages: 72-77 | Views: 145 | Downloads: 56

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