GM POLICY MUST BE FARMER CENTRIC

On July 23, the Supreme Court of India directed the Union government to develop a national policy on genetically modified (GM) crops for research, cultivation, trade and commerce through public consultation.

This came as the Bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Sanjay Karol delivered a split verdict on the Centre's 2022 decision to conditionally approve the environmental release of GM mustard (Dhara Mustard Hybrid-DMH-11). The approval reignited the long-standing debate over GM crops. Proponents argue they are essential for India's food security, while critics highlight concerns over agricultural distress, environmental and biodiversity risks and potential threats to human and animal health. With the Union government now formulating a policy, Shagun speaks to experts on what it should entail. The experts emphasise on the need for a democratic, consultative process.

“GM not the only solution for crop improvement”

SOMA MARLA

FORMER PRINCIPAL SCIENTIST, NATIONAL BUREAU OF PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES

Unlike other modern biotechnology products like vaccines and dna- or protein-based drugs, GM crops in Indian agriculture have been mired in controversy since their introduction. GM cotton and the proposed herbicide-resistant mustard and maize are engineered by introducing foreign genes that enable plants to produce pesticides and herbicides. Unfortunately, these synthesised plant toxins do not discriminate between harmful pests and beneficial organisms like bees, killing both.

Despite extensive scientific evidence showing that GM plants harm soil, water, the environment and human health, policymakers and the government continue to push the technology.