Supreme Court Orders National Policy on GM Crops

November 5, 2024

The Supreme Court of India mandated the Union government to create a national policy on genetically modified (GM) crops. This follows a split decision on the environmental release of GM mustard. The court brought into light the need for public consultation, reigniting debates on GM crops’ role in India’s food security and environmental safety.

About GM Crops

Genetically modified crops are plants altered using biotechnology. This often involves inserting foreign genes to enhance traits like pest resistance. In India, GM crops like cotton and mustard have faced controversy. Critics argue they pose risks to health, biodiversity, and the environment.

Scientific Concerns

Many scientists warn that GM crops can harm beneficial organisms like bees. The technology used for GM crops has not evolved in decades. It often employs “gene cassettes” containing engineered genes, which can lead to unintended consequences. For instance, the widely used CaMV 35S promoter has been linked to adverse environmental effects.

Alternative Solutions

Experts argue that GM crops are not the sole solution for food security. High yields require multiple interacting genes, not just a single engineered trait. Conventional breeding methods combined with modern techniques can develop resilient crops without the risks associated with GM technology.

Public sector research has successfully developed high-yielding, low-input crop varieties. Techniques like marker-assisted breeding have proven effective. However, recent collaborations between public institutions and multinational corporations raise concerns about prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare.

Need for Democratic Processes

The Supreme Court’s ruling emphasises a democratic approach in policy formulation. Farmers’ organisations demand a consultative process, mirroring past initiatives. They seek a biosafety policy prioritising health and environmental impacts, rather than merely promoting GM technology.

Historical Context

Previous committees have recommended comprehensive biosafety legislation in India. The lack of a dedicated biosafety law leaves regulatory decisions fragmented. Past reports have urged thorough assessments of GM crops’ environmental and health impacts before approval.

Indian states have varied in their responses to GM crops. Some have opposed them outright, while others have allowed limited trials. This reflects the constitutional division of powers, as agriculture and health fall under state jurisdiction.

Focus on Farmers

Experts stress that any new GM policy should prioritize farmers’ welfare over corporate profits. The introduction of BT cotton serves as a cautionary tale. While it was designed to increase yields, it led to increased costs and risks for small farmers, exacerbating issues like farmer suicides.

Recommendations for Policy Development

The new policy must consider socio-economic factors and the diverse agricultural landscape of India. It should evaluate GM crops’ suitability across different conditions, ensuring they benefit all farmers, particularly those with fewer resources.

As India formulates its GM policy, it faces the challenge of balancing innovation with safety and equity. The need for a thorough, inclusive, and science-based approach is crucial for the future of agriculture in the country.

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