Genetically modified crops are plants whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This process involves introducing new genes or modifying existing ones to produce desired traits. GM crops were first introduced in the USA in 1994 with the Flavr Savr tomato, which had been genetically modified to slow the tomato’s ripening process, delaying softening and rotting.
Genetically Modified (GM) Crops in India
- Approved Crop: Bt cotton is the only GM crop approved for cultivation in India.
- Cultivation Area: Grown on approximately 11 million hectares.
- Research and Trials: Various crops like mustard, chickpea, pigeonpea and sugarcane are in different stages of research, field trials and deliberations.
Advantages
- Insect resistance: GM crops are resistant to pests and diseases, which eventually reduces the need for pesticides.
- Extended shelf life: GM crops ensure a longer shelf life, and as a result, there can be an increase in their commercial value.
- Abiotic stress tolerance: They are also tolerant towards climate change events like heat waves, which can help reduce hunger.
- Higher nutritional value: GM crops can have a higher nutritional value.
- Food security: GM crops can help solve food security problems by increasing yields.As india has a very large population which is around below poverty line.
Disadvantages
- Environmental risks: GM crops can harm beneficial insects, such as pollinators, which help in pollination.
- Genetic contamination: GM crops can cross-pollinate with non-GMO crops or wild relatives, which can affect biodiversity.
- Health concerns: GM crops could cause allergic reactions and increase antibiotic resistance.
- Unknown health implications: The long-term health implications of GM crops are still unknown due to inadequate research in the field.
- Disrupts natural gene flow: GM crops can disrupt the natural process of gene flow.
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Applications of GM Crops
- Biofortification: It is the process of enhancing the micronutrient content of the crop. Example: β-carotene-enriched ‘Golden Rice’ was the first application of GM biofortification in 2000.
- Edible Vaccines: Genetically modified plants can produce edible vaccines. They offer many benefits over the traditional ones as they have lower manufacturing costs as well as much fewer side effects.
- Biofuels: Biofuel obtained from genetically modified (GM) algae and cyanobacteria has gained considerable attention. They are also called fourth-generation biofuels.
- Phytoremediation: Genetic modification has the potential to clean up soil and water pollutants by expressing the particular genes that express enzymes dealing with these pollutants.
Way Forward (By Parliamentary Standing Committee Report on ‘GM Crops and its impact on Environment’)
- Regulatory Reforms: Strengthening of GEAC’s transparency and safety measures, including MPs in District-level committees. Also, mandate independent impact assessments instead of relying on applicant data.
- Scientific Evaluation: Conduct controlled field trials and assess actual yield improvements (e.g., Bt cotton stagnation). Moreover, the impact on pesticide usage, soil, water, and biodiversity before approvals.
- Mandatory GM Food Labeling: The immediate implementation of clear labeling for GM products is necessary to ensure consumer awareness.
- Animal Health Impact Study: The Department of Animal Husbandry must conduct long-term feeding trials on livestock and fish to assess GM crops’ impact on animal health.
- Formulating a national policy: About GM crops for research, cultivation, trade and commerce in the country
Conclusion:
While GM food holds potential benefits for sustainable food production, it is crucial to examine its implications. A balanced approach is necessary, focusing on rigorous scientific research, transparent regulations, and public participation. Alternative approaches, such as organic farming, agroecology, and traditional breeding methods, have the potential to ensure a holistic and sustainable approach to food production that respects biodiversity, local knowledge, and human health.