The GM dilemma

The debate on genetically modified (GM) crops has revived with Delhi University scientists developing Mustard DMH-11 and the country's biotechnology regulator deferring a decision on it. Since hybrid mustard has been produced locally by a government-funded university department, allegations of profit-driven multinationals producing GM crops at the cost of biodiversity are missing. Bt cotton is the only GM crop grown in the country. An attempt to get commercial approval for Bt brinjal in 2009 did not succeed. Opponents of GM crops draw a distinction between food and non-food GM crops. Bt cotton, which has more than doubled the country's cotton production, is allowed even though cotton-seed oilcake is fed directly to cattle and gets into human body through milk. There is no evidence of Bt cotton adversely impacting biodiversity or cattle/human health.

 

Besides, India is the world's largest buyer of edible oils and meets 60 per cent of its requirements through imports. The country annually imports three million tonnes of soyabean oil and another 0.4 million tonnes of rapeseed oil, which are predominantly genetically modified. There is a pressing need to raise farm yields. Scientists see a solution in hybrid technology. The country cannot remain perpetually divided over GM crops. The UPA's Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh had put Bt brinjal on hold. NDA Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar  says his ministry is “not rushing into any decision”. Prime Minister Modi is all for “newer technologies, including GM, to boost productivity”.

 

Despite prolonged debate we still do not have comprehensive scientific knowledge to make policy judgment. Since there are valid apprehensions about GM crops, the country needs an independent biotechnology regulatory authority to monitor GM products, imported or locally produced. At least three Bills were introduced in the past but each of these lapsed as Parliament inexplicably failed to take them up. GM approvals are currently given by the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee. Being under the Union Environment Ministry, it lacks autonomy.