The Genetically Modified (GM) mustard, Dhara Mustard Hybrid (DMH-11), has taken the limelight recently after its successful field trials. The results revealed a significant increase in productivity compared to traditional methods, without influencing the natural pollinating behavior of honey bees.
Genetically Modified (GM) Crops: An Introduction
GM crops are engineered by altering the genes of a plant, usually by introducing genetic material from a different organism. This process allows the crop to acquire superior traits like improved yield, resistance against diseases, or adaptation to harsh environmental conditions. In India, Bt cotton was the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation until recently when Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) recommended GM Mustard for commercial use.
The Making of GM Mustard: DMH-11 Explained
A product of local innovation, DMH-11 is an enhanced version of the Herbicide Tolerant (HT) mustard. It is developed through crossbreeding Indian mustard variety ‘Varuna’ with East European ‘Early Heera-2’ mustard. Designed to produce hybrids with higher yield, DMH-11 carries two foreign genes (‘barnase’ and ‘barstar’) derived from soil bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. The barnase gene inhibits self-pollination in Varuna, and the barstar gene counteracts this effect in Heera, enabling seed production.
The Necessity of Barnase/Barstar System
The production of hybrid seeds requires a reliable system to induce male sterility and restore fertility. While there are conventional methods available, they often fail under certain environmental conditions, compromising seed purity. The genetically engineered barnase/barstar system serves as a robust alternative, overcoming these limitations effectively. DMH-11, which incorporates this system, has successfully passed regulatory testing by the Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP) between 2008 and 2016.
Why GM Mustard Matters: Boosting Domestic Produce
India’s edible oil import has been soaring continuously due to insufficient domestic production. The remarkable yield of GM Mustard is expected to reduce this economic drain created by the Agri-import industry. Hybrids resulting from genetically diverse parent crops exhibit higher yield and better adaptation, which can significantly improve the productivity of oilseed crops in India.
Safety Concerns: Evaluating DMH-11
Critics raised questions about the safety of the three genes used in creating the technique – Barnase, Barstar, and Bar. Extensive research and trials conducted over three years have confirmed the GM mustard’s safety, including its impact on human health and environment. However, debates persist regarding the herbicide tolerance attributed to the “Bar gene” present in DMH-11.
The Significance of Genetically Modified Crops
The process of crossing genetically diverse plants results in hybrids with improved yield and adaptability, a phenomenon known as hybrid vigor heterosis. This strategy is commonly applied in the production of various crops like rice, maize, pearl millet, sunflower, and many vegetables. It has been observed that hybrids, in general, deliver 20-25% higher yield compared to conventional varieties, recognizing them as a significant contrivance to enhance the productivity of rapeseed mustard at the national level.
Examining Previous UPSC Prelims Questions on GM Crops
In line with the ongoing discussions on GM crops, several related topics were brought up in the previous UPSC Civil Services Examination, such as the potential benefits of genetically engineered plants, technologies associated with developing genetically modified crop plants, and the role of biotechnology in elevating farmers’ living standards.
