A GM crop decision that cuts the mustard
Genetically modified crops (GM crops or GMOs, which stands for genetically modified organisms) are plants whose genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally through mating or natural recombination. Genetic modification is done using biotechnology techniques to introduce specific traits or characteristics into the plant to improve its performance, resistance to pests or diseases, or tolerance to environmental conditions. Here are some key aspects and considerations related to genetically modified crops:
Types of Genetic Modifications: Genetic modifications can be made to crops for various purposes, including:
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Insect Resistance: Some GM crops are engineered to produce proteins toxic to certain insects, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. For example, Bt cotton produces a protein from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis that is toxic to certain cotton pests.
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Herbicide Resistance: Certain GM crops are designed to tolerate specific herbicides. Farmers can use these herbicides to control weeds without harming the crop. Glyphosate-resistant crops (Roundup Ready) are an example of this.
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Disease Resistance: Genetic modifications can be used to make crops more resistant to diseases caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria. This can help increase crop yields and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
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Improved Nutritional Content: In some cases, genetic modifications are used to enhance the nutritional content of crops. For example, "Golden Rice" has been engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, to address vitamin A deficiency in developing countries.
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Drought or Stress Tolerance: GM crops can be designed to withstand environmental stresses like drought, extreme temperatures, or high salinity, which can help ensure crop survival in challenging conditions.
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Genetically modified (GM) crops have been a subject of debate and discussion in India for several years. India has adopted and commercialized a few GM crops while also imposing restrictions on others. Here is an overview of the situation regarding GM crops in India:
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Cotton (Bt Cotton):
- Bt cotton, genetically modified to express a protein from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to resist certain insect pests, was the first GM crop to be approved for commercial cultivation in India.
- Bt cotton has been widely adopted in India since its introduction in the early 2000s. It has contributed to increased cotton yields and reduced the need for chemical pesticides.
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Brinjal (Bt Brinjal):
- Bt brinjal, a genetically modified eggplant that incorporates a gene from Bt to confer resistance to the fruit and shoot borer pest, was developed and approved for cultivation in India.
- However, in 2010, the Indian government imposed a moratorium on the commercial release of Bt brinjal due to concerns about its safety, environmental impact, and public opposition.
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Other GM Crops:
- While Bt cotton is widely grown in India, the adoption of other GM crops, such as genetically modified mustard (DMH-11) and GM varieties of crops like rice and chickpeas, has faced regulatory hurdles and public scrutiny.
- As of my last update in September 2021, the commercial cultivation of GM mustard was under consideration by Indian regulatory authorities.
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Regulatory Framework:
- India has a stringent regulatory framework for GM crops. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex body responsible for approving the environmental release and commercial cultivation of GM crops.
- The process of obtaining approvals for GM crops involves rigorous scientific evaluations, field trials, and public consultations.
This deficit is due to a number of factors, including:
- Rising demand for edible oils due to population growth and increasing urbanization
- Declining domestic production of edible oils
- Increasing prices of edible oils on the global market
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is a regulatory body in India responsible for evaluating and approving genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genetically engineered products, including GM crops. It operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) of the Government of India. GEAC's primary role is to assess the safety, environmental impact, and potential risks associated with the release and commercial cultivation of GM crops and other GM organisms in India. Here are some key aspects of GEAC:
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Regulatory Authority: GEAC is the apex body in India responsible for regulating activities related to the research, development, testing, and commercialization of GMOs, including GM crops.
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Composition: The committee is composed of experts from various fields, including molecular biology, genetics, ecology, environmental science, and biosafety. It also includes representatives from relevant government ministries and departments.
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Functions:
- Risk Assessment: GEAC conducts comprehensive risk assessments of GMOs to determine their safety for the environment, human health, and biodiversity.
- Environmental Release: The committee evaluates applications for environmental release and field trials of GM crops and other GMOs. It assesses the potential environmental impact and biosafety measures.
- Commercial Cultivation Approval: GEAC assesses applications for the commercial cultivation of GM crops. This evaluation considers factors such as agronomic performance, environmental impact, and socio-economic aspects.
- Monitoring and Compliance: Once GM crops are approved for commercial cultivation, GEAC monitors compliance with the conditions and guidelines set for their cultivation
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Practice Mains Questions
1.Discuss the benefits and risks associated with the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops in the context of India's agricultural sector. What regulatory measures should be in place to ensure their safe adoption?
2.Examine the role of genetically modified cotton (Bt cotton) in India's agricultural transformation. Discuss the challenges faced by cotton farmers and the impact on their livelihoods.
3.Critically assess the regulatory framework governing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in India. What improvements are needed to ensure safety, transparency, and public trust in GMOs?
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