Sugarcane is a cash crop of national importance. Its complex genome, narrow gene pool, long breeding cycle, rare flowering and complex environmental interactions hinders progress in genetic improvement. But, the crop serves as an excellent material for in vitro culture. Therefore, genetic transformation can be a better alternative to incorporate resistance to diseases and abiotic stresses, and genetic improvement of quality traits. In this pursuit, the authors presented a detailed review of the status of in vitro culture and current strategies of genetic transformation in sugarcane using a number of important candidate genes.