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UPSC GM Mustard: The Government of India has granted environmental clearance for domestic genetically modified (GM) mustard seeds.
The latest decision cleared the way for the commercial use of its first genetically modified food crop. India, in particular, is the world’s largest importer of edible oils, on which the country spends tens of billions of dollars annually. The country gets more than 70% of its demand from Argentina, Indonesia, Brazil, Russia, Malaysia and Ukraine.
Geneticist and former Vice-Chancellor of Delhi University Deepak Pental called it a landmark development. Pental developed the seeds together with his team. It was an effort that spanned more than a decade.
The Genetic Engineering Assessment Committee (GEAC) of the Government of India has permitted the “release into the environment” of genetically modified (GM) mustard. GM #mustard hybrid DMH-11 has the potential to improve mustard yield, farmers’ income and reduce edible oil import in India. pic.twitter.com/795VETNRzl
— DBT-NIPGR (@NIPGRsocial)
October 27, 2022
Genetically modified mustard in India
In an announcement, the Indian government has confirmed the highest level of approval to date for the transgenic mustard crop, also known as canola.
India eases regulations for development of genome-edited plants. The Ministry of Science and Technology has also identified the technology as promising as it offers huge economic potential.
Gene Modified Mustard gets approval
The latest decision by the Government of India recognizes the potential of biotechnology to address the growing import of edible oil into India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also repeatedly urged farmers to increase domestic production of oilseeds to achieve self-sufficiency. Gujarat was also at the forefront of efforts to adopt GM Cotton Seeds during Prime Minister Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister there.
Why is genetically modified mustard significant?
Many Indian scientists and agricultural experts have called for faster removal of genetically modified crops as India’s agricultural land shrinks due to rapid urbanization and erratic weather. It also threatens the production of staple food grains such as rice and wheat.
However, conservative politicians and advocacy groups oppose lab-engineered crops, believing that genetically modified crops could threaten food safety and biodiversity, and may also pose health risks.
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