The ongoing discourse surrounding genetically modified (GM) crops in India has intensified, particularly following the Supreme Court’s directive for a national policy on GM crops. This policy aims to address the multifaceted concerns regarding GM technology, including its implications for food security, environmental sustainability, and public health. As the Union government prepares to formulate this policy, it faces scrutiny from various stakeholders, including farmers, scientists, and environmentalists.
About GM Crops
Genetically modified crops are plants whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. The primary goal is to enhance desirable traits such as pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, or increased nutritional value. In India, GM crops like Bt cotton have been commercially cultivated, but their introduction has sparked controversy. Critics argue that the technology, which was developed in the West, may not be suitable for India’s diverse agricultural landscape.
Historical Context
The debate over GM crops in India is not new. The introduction of Bt cotton in the early 2000s was met with both enthusiasm and apprehension. While proponents heralded it as a solution to pest-related losses, opponents raised concerns about its socio-economic impacts, including increased farmer debt and suicides. The Supreme Court’s establishment of a Technical Expert Committee in 2012 brought into light the need for a comprehensive evaluation of GM crops, but progress has been slow.
Regulatory Framework
India currently lacks a robust legislative framework governing GM crops. The regulatory oversight is primarily based on subordinate legislation, which many experts argue is inadequate. Previous recommendations from various committees have called for an overarching biosafety legislation to ensure the health of consumers, the environment, and agricultural biodiversity. The absence of such a framework has led to inconsistent policies across states, with some opposing GM crops entirely.
Socio-Economic Considerations
The focus of the forthcoming GM policy should be on the socio-economic implications for farmers rather than the interests of multinational corporations. The introduction of GM crops has often favoured resource-rich farmers while neglecting small and marginal farmers, who constitute the majority of India’s agricultural workforce. This disparity raises ethical questions about the sustainability of GM technology in addressing hunger and poverty.
Environmental Impact
Environmental concerns surrounding GM crops are . The use of GM technology has been linked to adverse effects on biodiversity, soil health, and water resources. For instance, the widespread adoption of herbicide-resistant crops has led to increased herbicide use, which can harm beneficial organisms and contribute to the emergence of resistant weed species. A sustainable approach would involve integrating traditional agricultural practices with modern biotechnological advancements.
Future Directions
As the Union government embarks on drafting a GM policy, it is imperative to engage in a thorough, democratic consultation process involving all stakeholders. This includes farmers, scientists, environmentalists, and policymakers. The policy should not only focus on the introduction of new technologies but also assess their long-term viability and impact on India’s diverse agro-ecological zones.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the implications of genetically modified crops on India’s agricultural landscape.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of India’s current regulatory framework for GM crops.
- What socio-economic factors should be considered in the formulation of a GM crop policy?
- Analyse the environmental concerns associated with the use of GM crops in India.
- How can traditional agricultural practices be integrated with modern biotechnology?
