Other than resistance to pests, what are. the prospects for which genetically engineered plants have been created? 1. To enable them to withstand. drought 2. To increase the nutritive value of the produce 3. To enable them to grow and do photosynthesis in spaceships and space stations. 4. To increase their shelf life Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

1. Genetic engineering (GE) allows for the modification of plants to introduce desirable traits beyond just resistance to pests. 2. Statement 1 is correct. Developing crops that can withstand drought or other abiotic stresses (like salinity, heat) is a major focus of GE research. Introducing genes related to water use efficiency or stress tolerance is a key prospect. 3. Statement 2 is correct. Genetic engineering is used to enhance the nutritive value of crops (biofortification). A well-known example is Golden Rice, engineered to produce beta-carotene (a precursor of Vitamin A). Other efforts aim to increase protein, iron, or zinc content. 4. Statement 3 is incorrect. While research exists on growing plants in controlled environments for space exploration, engineering plants specifically to perform photosynthesis in spaceships or space stations is not a mainstream or established prospect of current plant genetic engineering compared to agricultural applications. The challenges are more related to providing light, water, and nutrients in microgravity. 5. Statement 4 is correct. Genetic engineering has been used to increase the shelf life of produce, particularly fruits and vegetables. The Flavr Savr tomato, engineered to soften more slowly, was an early example. Modifying genes related to ripening or senescence can extend the period produce remains fresh.