Genetically Modified Crops in India, History, Regulation and Challenges

India’s journey with genetically modified (GM) crops has been a complex and contentious one, marked by regulatory delays, environmental concerns, and socio-economic debates. The recent decision by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) to delay the approval of a new variant of Bt cotton highlights the ongoing challenges in the commercialization of GM crops in India. This article explores the history, advantages, challenges, and future prospects of GM crops in India, focusing on the latest developments and regulatory landscape.

History of GM Crops in India

Bt Cotton

Bt cotton, introduced in India in the early 2000s, was the first genetically modified crop to be commercialized in the country. It was engineered to be resistant to bollworm, a major pest affecting cotton crops. While Bt cotton initially promised higher yields and reduced pesticide use, its impact has been mixed. While it has significantly increased cotton production, it has also been associated with increased farmer debt and ecological concerns.

Bt Brinjal and GM Mustard

Bt brinjal, an insect-resistant variety of eggplant, was approved by GEAC in 2009 but faced massive public backlash and was subsequently placed under an indefinite moratorium in 2010. Similarly, GM mustard, developed by Delhi University, has faced legal and regulatory hurdles despite being approved by GEAC in 2022. The Supreme Court has currently halted its release, pending further review.

Recent Developments

The latest update in India’s GM crop saga involves the delay in approving a new variant of Bt cotton by GEAC. The committee has asked the developer to present a fresh dossier on the efficacy of Bt cotton against specific pests and conduct a new socio-economic analysis. This delay comes at a time when illegally grown Bt cotton is flooding the market, raising concerns about regulatory effectiveness and farmer welfare.

Understanding GMOs and GM Foods

What are GMOs?

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using modern biotechnology techniques, including gene technology and recombinant DNA technology. These modifications are not possible through natural mating or recombination.

GM Foods

GM foods are produced from or using GMOs. They have been developed to improve crop yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and adaptability to adverse climatic conditions.

Advantages of GM Crops

1. Insect Resistance: Incorporating genes from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) makes crops resistant to specific pests, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
2. Virus Resistance: Introducing genes from viruses can protect crops from viral infections.
3. Herbicide Tolerance: Genes from bacteria can make crops resistant to certain herbicides, allowing farmers to control weeds more effectively.
4. Addressing Poverty and Hunger: GM crops can increase yields, improve household food security, and raise farmer incomes.
5. Low Production Costs: Reduced need for pesticides and herbicides can lower the overall cost of crop production.
6. Climate Resilience: GM crops can be engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as drought.
7. Extended Shelf Life and Improved Taste: Genetic modifications can enhance the shelf life and taste of food products.
8. Enhanced Nutrition: Genetic modifications can increase the nutritional value of crops.

Challenges Associated with GM Crops

1. Ecological Concerns: Gene flow through cross-pollination can lead to the development of resistant weeds and loss of biodiversity.
2. Nutritional Compromises: Focusing on yield and pest resistance may sometimes result in lower nutritional value.
3. Economic Concerns: Claims about increased yields and stress tolerance have often not been realized, as seen with Bt cotton in India.
4. Chemical Use: The widespread use of herbicides like glyphosate, which has been classified as a probable human carcinogen, poses health risks.
5. Toxicity: There are concerns that GM foods could lead to diseases resistant to antibiotics.
6. Heavy Metal Concentration: Some GM crops may accumulate toxic metals like mercury.
7. Ethical Issues: Potential health risks, environmental damage, and corporate dominance are key ethical concerns.

Regulation of GM Crops in India

Key Regulatory Bodies and Acts

1. Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC): Under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), GEAC is responsible for assessing proposals related to GM crops.
2. Environment Protection Act, 1986 (EPA)
3. Biological Diversity Act, 2002
4. Plant Quarantine Order, 2003
5. GM Policy under Foreign Trade Policy
6. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
7. Drugs and Cosmetics Rule (8th Amendment), 1988

GM Crop Cultivation in India

1. Cotton: Bt cotton covers about 96% of the area under cotton cultivation in India, making the country the fourth-largest cultivator of GM crops globally.
2. Mustard: GEAC has approved the environmental release of two varieties of GM mustard.
3. Brinjal: Despite GEAC’s approval, the commercialization of Bt brinjal has been halted due to public opposition.

Way Forward

1. Stringent Regulation: There is an urgent need for stringent regulations to ensure the safe cultivation and commercialization of GM crops.
2. Ecological Risk Assessment: Addressing issues of gene flow and pest resistance is crucial before releasing GM crops for open field trials.
3. State Government Involvement: Requiring No Objection Certificates from state governments for field trials can ensure better oversight.
4. Single Window System: A unified regulatory system and online portal for GM crop assessment and approval can streamline the process.
5. Continued Research: India must continue its GM crop research to meet its food and nutrition security goals.
6. Bio-safety Measures: Addressing bio-safety issues at all stages of GM crop development is essential for their safe release.

Genetically Modified Crops in India UPSC

The debate on genetically modified crops in India is ongoing, with significant implications for food security, environmental sustainability, and farmer welfare. As India navigates these complex issues, it is crucial to balance technological advancements with stringent regulatory measures and public engagement. The decisions made today will shape the future of Indian agriculture and its ability to meet the challenges of a growing population and changing climate.

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