Biotechnology, particularly the use of Genetically Modified (GM) crops, holds significant promise to elevate agricultural productivity, thus improving the living standards of farmers. Recently, India’s Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, approved seed production for genetically modified (GM) mustard.
Understanding Genetically Modified (GM) Crops
GM crops are artificially modified plants, often with genetic material from other organisms, to enhance their properties. For instance, these modifications can enhance crop yields, resistance to disease, drought, or herbicides, or improve nutritional value. The best-known GM crop is golden rice, a Vitamin A-enriched grain produced by inserting genes from daffodils, maize, and soil bacteria. Previously, India authorized only one GM crop, Bt cotton, but recently, GEAC recommended GM Mustard for commercial use.
The Pros and Cons of GM Crops
Genetically modified seeds increase crop yield and have the potential to be engineered for specific climatic conditions or situations. However, few companies are responsible for creating and selling GM seeds, leading to a near monopoly and fewer options for those buying seeds. Also, GM seeds do not produce viable seed offspring, necessitating a new purchase each planting season. There are environmental concerns about decreasing species diversity and ethical concerns about mixing genes across species.
Understanding GM Mustard
Dhara Mustard Hybrid (DMH-11), a transgenic mustard variant, is a GM crop developed in India. It contains two genes isolated from a soil bacterium that assists in breeding high-yielding commercial mustard hybrids. The Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP) at Delhi University has developed this GM crop. It could help India become self-reliant in edible oil production, a commodity currently imported at a high cost.
Status of Other GM Crops in India
Apart from GM Mustard, India has also experimented with GM cotton and brinjal. Bt cotton, the first transgenic crop approved by GEAC, was introduced to combat bollworm attack on cotton crops. However, GEAC’s recommendation for commercial release of Bt brinjal was blocked in 2010.
Understanding Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)
GEAC is responsible for the appraisal of activities involving large-scale use of potentially hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production. It also oversees proposals relating to the release of genetically engineered organisms and products into the environment, including experimental field trials.
Moving Forward with GM Crops
With the increasing adoption of GM crops, rigorous monitoring is necessary to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, independent environmentalists should carry out environmental impact assessments, as farmers are not equipped to assess the long-term impact of GM crops on ecology and health.
Relevant Questions for Preliminary and Civil Services Examination
A few questions that help evaluate understanding of GM crops include examining the prospects for which genetically engineered plants have been created and understanding the context of Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies. Biotechnology’s role in improving farmers’ living standards can also be an effective area of discussion. These questions provide insights into the advantages and disadvantages of GM crops, their potential use in different climates, the current status of various GM crops in India, and the roles of regulatory authorities in their implementation.
Last Modified: February 18, 2024