Plant breeding plays a vital role in agricultural development, particularly in a country like India with diverse agro-climatic conditions and a growing population. This paper examines the achievements and challenges of plant breeding in India, focusing on key aspects such as the development of high-yielding crop varieties, introduction of disease-resistant varieties, enhancement of nutritional content, and conservation of genetic diversity. The paper also discusses the impact of climate change, emerging pests and diseases, and regulatory issues on plant breeding. Future prospects, including the role of biotechnology and the importance of collaboration between research institutions and farmers, are highlighted. Policy recommendations for promoting sustainable plant breeding practices are also provided.

Plant breeding, India, achievements, challenges, high-yielding varieties, disease resistance, genetic diversity, biotechnology, collaboration, policy recommendations.