In many laboratories, active research is on to comprehend the genetics of apomixis

The correct option is: "Transfer of apomictic genes into hybrid varieties that shall prevent hybrid vigour loss over the years"

Explanation:

Apomixis is a form of asexual reproduction in plants that mimics sexual reproduction but produces seeds without fertilization. Because there is no fusion of male and female gametes, the resulting embryo is genetically identical to the parent plant (a clone).

Hybrid plants often exhibit superior traits such as higher yield, resistance to diseases, and better resilience, a phenomenon known as hybrid vigour or heterosis. However, if farmers save the seeds harvested from hybrid crops to sow the next year, the progeny plants segregate and lose these hybrid characters due to genetic recombination during sexual reproduction. Consequently, farmers must purchase expensive hybrid seeds every single year.

If apomictic genes can be successfully introduced into hybrid crops, the seeds produced by these hybrids will develop via apomixis (without fertilization). This ensures that the genetic makeup of the hybrid is preserved completely intact in the seeds. As a result, farmers can use the harvested seeds to grow new crops year after year without losing hybrid vigour, significantly reducing agricultural costs.