What Are Genetically Modified Crops (GM Crops)?

GM Crops: In August 2024 the Supreme Court of India directed the Union Government to create a national policy on Genetically Modified Crops (GM Crops). These crops are developed by altering the DNA of regular crops using genetic engineering techniques.

Enroll Now for UPSC Online Course

GM Crops Full Form

• Bt cotton: A widely cultivated GM crop in India, modified with genes from Bacillus thuringiensis to resist bollworms.
• Golden Rice: A GM crop fortified with Vitamin A to combat malnutrition.

Applications of Genetically Modified Crops

• Pest Resistance : One of the most significant benefits of these crops is their ability to resist pests. For example, Bt cotton produces a protein toxic to specific insect pests, reducing the need for harmful pesticides.
• Herbicide Tolerance : Some GM crops, such as glyphosate-resistant soybeans , are engineered to tolerate specific herbicides. This allows farmers to control weeds more effectively without damaging the crops.
• Improved Yield : By introducing specific genetic traits, such as pest resistance, drought tolerance, and disease resistance, GM crops can produce higher yields compared to traditional varieties to ensure food security.
• Reduced Pesticide Use: Pest-resistant GM crops decrease the need for chemical pesticides, protecting biodiversity and reducing environmental toxicity. This also benefits the ecosystems and water quality.
• Enhanced Soil Health: Reduction in chemical inputs helps improve soil quality by preventing degradation. Some GM crops also promote better root systems, reducing erosion and maintaining soil fertility.
• Better Nutritional Value: Some crops like Golden rice can address micronutrient deficiencies, especially in regions where malnutrition is a serious issue. They can help combat Vitamin deficiency and improve public health.

Enroll Now for UPSC Online Course

GM Crops in India

1. Bt Cotton: It is the first non-food GM crop and has significantly boosted cotton yields by resisting bollworm infestations, reducing the need for pesticides. By 2018-19, Bt cotton made up 95% of the cotton planted in India.
2. Bt Brinjal : In 2009, Bt brinjal was cleared by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) for commercial cultivation. However, it faced opposition and was placed under a 10-year moratorium. Field trials for two new Bt brinjal varieties resumed in 2020-2023.
3. GM Mustard (DMH-11): Developed by Delhi University, DMH-11 is a GM mustard variety designed to improve yield and disease resistance. It has not yet been approved for commercial cultivation.

Concerns Related to GM Crops

• Biodiversity Loss: GM crops like GM mustard could cross-pollinate with wild relatives, leading to a reduction in genetic diversity
• Gene Contamination: Gene flow from GM crops to non-GM varieties poses a threat to organic farming and traditional crop varieties.

• Allergenicity and Toxicity: GM crops may introduce new proteins that could be allergens or toxins, raising concerns about human health.
• Glyphosate and Cancer Risk: Glyphosate, widely used with herbicide-tolerant crops, has been classified as a "probable carcinogen" by the WHO.

• Farmers’ Rights : Dependency on multinational companies for patented GM seeds can burden small farmers.
• Economic Inequality : High costs of GM seeds may widen the gap between large-scale and small-scale farmers.

Enroll Now for UPSC Online Course

GM Crops Regulation in India

Regulatory Bodies

1. Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC): The GEAC is the primary body responsible for evaluating and approving GM crops for commercial cultivation. It ensures that GM crops meet safety and environmental standards before they are allowed in the market.
2. Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) : The RCGM oversees the research, development, and trials of GM crops. It reviews scientific data on GM crops and ensures that experiments comply with safety protocols before they are submitted to the GEAC for final approval.
3. State Biotechnology Coordination Committee (SBCC): The SBCC operates at the state level and coordinates the implementation of biotechnological policies. It ensures that GM crop trials in states comply with national guidelines.

Acts and Policies Regulating GM Crops

1. Environment Protection Act (EPA) 1986:
2. Biological Diversity Act, 2002
3. Plant Quarantine Order, 2003
4. GM policy under Foreign Trade Policy
5. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
6. Drugs and Cosmetics Rule (8th Amendment), 1988

To learn such complex topics in detail, explore PW UPSC Courses now!