Nagendra Rai

Climate-smart breeding for abiotic stress tolerance in tomato

Abiotic stress remains a significant barrier to maximizing tomato yield and quality. Climate variability, water scarcity, and soil degradation are expected to intensify these challenges. Future research should focus on identification of novel stress-responsive genes through omics approaches, development of stress-resilient cultivars via marker-assisted selection or genome editing, integration of agronomic strategies such as mulching, controlled irrigation, and balanced fertilization, and a multidisciplinary approach combining genetics, physiology, and agronomy is essential for mitigating the adverse effects of abiotic stress and ensuring sustainable tomato production.