New Delhi: The Indian government has initiated the process of formulating a long-overdue national policy on genetically modified (GM) crops, establishing an expert committee comprising agriculture and climate scientists. This panel, coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture in conjunction with other relevant ministries, aims to study GM crop policies and research outcomes from other countries, two sources familiar with the matter revealed. The panel is expected to submit its findings within the next few months.
The decision follows a split verdict by the Supreme Court regarding GM mustard in July, where the Court emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to ensure the safety of GM crops. In October 2022, the government approved the environmental release of locally developed GM mustard to cut down on the nation’s reliance on imported mustard oil. This approval came shortly after the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) granted conditional release of GM mustard. However, further government trials were put on hold in November 2023 due to opposition from anti-GM crop activists.
In India, Bt cotton is currently the only GM crop approved for cultivation, with other crops like chickpea, pigeon pea, corn, and sugarcane still undergoing various research and trial stages. Experts stress the importance of creating a national policy to expedite technological advancements, which could benefit farmers and reduce import bills. However, there is significant debate and opposition regarding the safety and efficacy of GM crops. Critics argue that these crops could pose risks to human and animal health, as well as to local ecosystems.
Agricultural economist Chirag Jain highlighted the slow acceptance of GM technology among policymakers, while agricultural group Swadeshi Jagaran Manch raised concerns over the origins and purported benefits of GM mustard traits. Meanwhile, cotton farmers are pushing for updates to existing Bt cotton technology to combat new pests and increase yields amid declining production trends.
The government’s move to draft a policy comes as the production of oil seeds and cotton sees a downward trend, highlighting the urgent need for technological and policy interventions in India’s agricultural sector.
Original Story https://www.livemint.com/politics/policy/national-policy-genetically-modified-crops-ministry-of-agriculture-rice-cotton-mustard-geac-foreign-scientists-framing-11727084780864.html
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