Climate-resilient crop varieties and biofortification have the potential to address nutritional security by tolerating heat, drought, and pest stresses while enhancing micronutrient density in staple crops, ensuring both yield stability under changing climatic conditions and improved dietary outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The potential of climate-resilient crop varieties and biofortification in addressing nutritional security under changing climatic conditions is significant. Together, they represent a strategic intersection between agricultural adaptation and public health nutrition. Here’s a detailed analysis of their potential:

🌾 1. Climate-Resilient Crop Varieties

✅ What They Are:

Climate-resilient crops are genetically improved or selected crop varieties that can withstand abiotic stresses (drought, heat, salinity, flooding) and biotic stresses (pests and diseases) intensified by climate change.

🔍 Potential Contributions to Nutritional Security:

Stable Yields in Stressful Conditions:

Ensures food availability even during droughts, floods, and temperature extremes.

Reduces the risk of crop failure and food shortages.

Adaptability to Marginal Lands:

Varieties suited to degraded soils or arid conditions can expand cultivation areas.

Disease and Pest Resistance:

Reduces reliance on chemical pesticides and ensures higher-quality produce.

Increased Crop Diversity:

Encourages use of neglected and underutilized species (NUS) like millets, pulses, or indigenous vegetables that are naturally resilient and nutritionally dense.

Livelihood and Economic Stability:

Better yields mean improved income for smallholder farmers, enabling better access to food and healthcare.

🌍 Examples:

Drought-tolerant maize in sub-Saharan Africa (e.g., Water Efficient Maize for Africa - WEMA)

Submergence-tolerant rice (e.g., 'Swarna Sub1') in South Asia

🥦 2. Biofortification

✅ What It Is:

Biofortification involves breeding staple crops to increase their micronutrient content, such as iron, zinc, vitamin A, or protein.