The Supreme Court has recently put a temporary hold on the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) mustard. The court was divided in its opinion on whether to allow the release of GM mustard. Despite differing views, the court unanimously agreed that India urgently needs a clear and comprehensive policy to regulate genetically modified organisms. This policy should ensure the safe and responsible development of GM technology in agriculture while addressing potential risks.
This editorial is based on “Need for pragmatism, not ad hocism, on GM” published in Hindustan Times on 24/07/2024. The article discusses the Supreme Court’s split decision on GM mustard and the need for a comprehensive national biosafety policy for GM crops in India.
Understanding the regulation and impact of GM crops is crucial for UPSC aspirants. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 2 and GS Paper 3, covering government policies, biotechnology, and food security. Analyzing this issue helps in understanding the balance between technological advancement and ethical considerations, a key aspect of the UPSC syllabus.
The Supreme Court’s recent split decision on genetically modified (GM) mustard has reignited the debate on GM crops, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive national biosafety policy in India. This issue is pivotal for UPSC aspirants as it intersects with multiple topics previously asked in the exam, such as biotechnology in agriculture, government policies, and regulatory frameworks. Understanding the complexities and implications of GM crops is crucial for formulating balanced and informed viewpoints in the civil services exam.
Genetically modified (GM) crops are plants whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques to introduce new traits or modify existing ones. These crops are designed to exhibit desirable characteristics such as pest resistance, improved nutritional content, and enhanced weather resilience. GM crops have seen widespread adoption globally, revolutionizing agriculture by offering solutions to various farming challenges.
GM crops involve the alteration of the plant’s DNA using genetic engineering techniques. This process includes the introduction of new genes or the modification of existing ones to achieve desired traits such as pest resistance, drought tolerance, and enhanced nutritional content.
GM crops were first introduced in the USA in 1994 with the development of the Flavr Savr tomato, which was genetically modified to delay ripening. According to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA), as of 2019, over 18 million farmers in 29 countries, including India, have planted GM crops on more than 190 million hectares.
India has a cautious yet evolving approach towards GM crops. While Bt cotton is the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation, several other crops are currently undergoing research and trials under a stringent regulatory framework.
Bt cotton is the only genetically modified crop that has been approved for cultivation in India. It is grown on approximately 11 million hectares, significantly contributing to the country’s cotton production.
Other GM crops like mustard, chickpea, pigeonpea, and sugarcane are in various stages of research and field trials. These efforts are aimed at evaluating the safety, efficacy, and potential benefits of these crops before they can be approved for commercial cultivation.
The regulatory framework for GM crops in India is governed by the “Rules for the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export, and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms, Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells” (Rules, 1989), under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Various competent authorities are responsible for the oversight and regulation of GM crops to ensure biosafety.
Genetically modified crops offer numerous benefits, including enhanced pest resistance, improved weather resilience, increased nutritional value, and higher yields. These advancements can lead to more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.
GM crops like Bt cotton are engineered to resist pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This not only increases yield but also minimizes the environmental impact of farming practices.
GM crops can be designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. For instance, drought-tolerant maize can maintain yields under water-stressed conditions, ensuring food security in regions prone to erratic rainfall or prolonged dry spells.
Biofortification through genetic modification can enhance the nutritional value of crops. Golden Rice, enriched with beta-carotene, aims to address Vitamin A deficiency, while other GM crops are fortified with iron and zinc to combat malnutrition.
GM crops often have higher yields and improved resource efficiency. Herbicide-tolerant crops allow for effective weed control, and crops modified for enhanced photosynthesis or nitrogen use can produce more with less input.
GM crops contribute to sustainable farming practices by enabling no-till farming, reducing soil erosion, and lowering carbon emissions. Insect-resistant crops also reduce the need for insecticides, benefiting overall ecosystem health.
GM technology can extend the shelf life of crops, reducing post-harvest losses and the carbon footprint associated with frequent transportation and refrigeration of perishables.
GM plants can produce vaccines and pharmaceutical compounds, a field known as “biopharming.” This technology could revolutionize vaccine and drug production by making them more accessible and affordable.
Some GM plants are being developed for their ability to absorb and concentrate pollutants from the soil, known as phytoremediation. For example, modified poplars can clean up contaminated sites by absorbing heavy metals and breaking down organic pollutants.
Despite their benefits, GM crops face significant challenges, including environmental, health, socio-economic, regulatory, ethical, and coexistence issues. Addressing these challenges is crucial for their balanced and sustainable use.
GM crops raise ecological questions, such as gene flow to wild relatives, which could create herbicide-resistant “superweeds.” Additionally, the impact on non-target organisms and potential biodiversity loss are critical concerns.
There are concerns about the potential long-term health effects of GM foods, including the possibility of new allergens and changes in nutritional content. These uncertainties necessitate thorough safety assessments and ongoing monitoring.
The adoption of GM crops can have complex socio-economic repercussions, including market concentration, high seed costs, and the impact on small-scale farmers. Issues of intellectual property rights and farmer dependence on seed companies are also significant concerns.
Establishing effective regulatory frameworks for GM crops is complex, with varying approval processes and labeling requirements across countries. This creates trade complications and challenges in monitoring and enforcing regulations.
GM crops raise ethical questions about human intervention in nature and the moral implications of crossing species barriers. These concerns intersect with broader debates about food sovereignty and the right of communities to determine their own food systems.
Managing the coexistence of GM and non-GM crops is challenging due to the risk of cross-pollination and contamination. Establishing effective segregation practices throughout the supply chain is complex and costly.
The evolution of resistance in pests and weeds poses a significant threat to the long-term efficacy of GM crops. This creates a “technological treadmill” where farmers become dependent on evolving GM technologies to maintain yields.
To ensure the balanced use of GM crops in India, several measures can be adopted, including transparent trials, public-private partnerships, preservation of indigenous varieties, and regulatory reforms.
Implement a system of transparent, publicly accessible field trials for GM crops. An online portal can publish all trial data and results in real-time, encouraging independent verification and building public trust.
Create a framework for collaborative research between public institutions and private companies. This can balance profit motives with public interest and ensure that GM technology addresses local agricultural needs.
Establish a comprehensive national gene bank to preserve indigenous crop varieties. This initiative can safeguard biodiversity while allowing for the development of GM crops.
Develop policies that prioritize small and marginal farmers in GM crop adoption. These policies should include farmer committees, training programs, and insurance schemes to protect farmers against potential failures.
Mandate long-term environmental impact studies before approving any GM crop. Establish a network of ecological observatories to monitor impacts on local ecosystems and implement periodic reviews.
Focus GM crop research on addressing specific nutritional deficiencies prevalent in India. Collaborate with health experts to develop biofortified crops tailored to local dietary habits and deficiencies.
Overhaul the regulatory framework to create a clear, science-based approval process for GM crops. Establish an independent biotechnology regulatory authority with a time-bound decision-making process.
Implement a comprehensive labeling system for GM products. Clear guidelines and public awareness campaigns can empower consumers to make informed choices.
Develop guidelines and infrastructure for the coexistence of GM and non-GM crops. Establish buffer zones and isolation distances to prevent cross-pollination and maintain agricultural diversity.
Actively participate in international forums to develop harmonized standards for GM crops. Establish mutually recognized safety assessment procedures with major trading partners to address trade-related issues.
| Political: India’s regulatory environment for GM crops is complex, with frequent changes causing uncertainty. The significant influence of state governments adds another layer of complexity, making nationwide policy implementation challenging. Economic: GM crops can potentially boost yields and reduce costs associated with pesticides and other inputs. However, economic challenges include the impact on agricultural exports due to international resistance to GM foods and potential market concentration with a few large companies dominating the sector. Social: Public opposition to GM crops is significant, rooted in concerns over biosafety, socio-economic impacts, and ethical considerations. There is a need for increased public engagement and education to address misconceptions and ethical concerns about genetic modifications. Technological: GM technology offers the potential for pest and disease resistance, weather resilience, and nutritional enhancements. Technological challenges include managing gene flow to wild relatives and resistance development in pests and weeds. Environmental: While GM crops can contribute to environmental sustainability through reduced chemical use and carbon emissions, there are concerns about their long-term ecological impacts, gene flow, and effects on non-target organisms. Robust environmental impact assessments are needed. Legal: The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the need for a clearer, more stable regulatory framework in India. Legal challenges also involve aligning local regulations with international standards to facilitate trade and technological transfer. |
In conclusion, India’s journey with GM crops is at a crucial juncture. A balanced and well-regulated approach is essential to harnessing the benefits of genetic modification while mitigating its risks. Clear policies, transparent trials, and robust public engagement are key to moving forward. As future policymakers, civil service aspirants must champion a pragmatic yet cautious stance, ensuring food security without compromising biosafety.
| UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) Mains Q. Discuss the need for a robust regulatory framework for GM crops in India. (Directly related to regulatory framework for GM crops). (GS Paper III, 2022). Q. Evaluate the role of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) in regulating GM crops in India. What improvements can be made to ensure a balanced approach to biotechnology? |
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