Genetically Modified Crops: Balancing Food Security and Environmental Impact

Sub : Sci

Sec : Biotech

Why in News

Recent discussions on genetically modified (GM) crops have gained attention due to their potential to combat global hunger while also raising concerns over long-term environmental and health impacts. A new study published in science has reviewed the benefits and challenges associated with GM crops, focusing on agricultural sustainability and ecosystem balance.

Genetically Modified (GM) Crops:

GM crops are created by altering a plant’s genome to introduce desirable traits.
Techniques like CRISPR allow for precise genetic modifications, avoiding the introduction of foreign genes, making them more publicly acceptable.

Examples include:

Bt Cotton: Modified with a gene from Bacillus thuringiensis to resist insect pests.
HT (Herbicide-Tolerant) Crops: Engineered to withstand specific herbicides, allowing targeted weed control.
Genetic engineering aims to transcend the genus barrier by introducing an alien gene in the seeds to get the desired effects.
GM crops have enabled sustainable farming by reducing the need for chemical pesticides and promoting no-till agriculture, which minimizes soil disturbance and carbon emissions.

Positive Aspects of GM Crops:

GM crops like Bt Cotton have significantly reduced the need for chemical insecticides, lowering toxicity exposure for farmers. In India, Bt Cotton’s adoption has resulted in a decline in insecticide use, contributing to improved farmer health.
GM technology can be used to increase crop yields and improve nutritional profiles, which is crucial in addressing food scarcity and malnutrition.
No-till farming enabled by herbicide-tolerant crops helps retain soil structure and reduces carbon release.
Reduced pesticide use with insect-resistant GM crops minimizes soil and groundwater contamination.

Challenges:

Pests can evolve resistance to GM traits, such as the Bt toxin, leading to increased pesticide use.
HT crops, although efficient, have led to increased herbicide use due to the development of herbicide-resistant weeds. Excessive use of herbicides like glyphosate has raised concerns over long-term human health impacts, including potential carcinogenic effects.
The long-term impact of GM crops on biodiversity is unclear, as data on species trends are limited. Reduced pollinator populations have been observed, but attributing the cause to GM crops remains difficult due to factors like urbanization and climate change.
A few major corporations dominate the GM crop market, often tying herbicide sales with specific GM seeds.
High regulatory costs (over $40 million for a single GM trait approval) restrict smaller institutions from competing, leading to market monopolization.

Sustainable Solutions for GM Crop Use:

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Emphasizing a balanced approach, IPM advocates for minimal herbicide use and accepts a certain level of weeds to maintain ecological balance.
Combining traditional agricultural practices with GM technology can reduce dependence on agro-chemicals.
Crop Rotation and Diversification: Rotating different crops can limit the need for herbicides and reduce pest resistance. This practice supports sustainable farming by enhancing soil health and reducing chemical dependency.
Stricter Regulations Based on Traits: Current regulations often focus solely on whether a crop is GM, not on its intended traits or impact. Shifting the focus to the specific characteristics of GM crops—such as herbicide or insect resistance—could allow for more nuanced oversight.

Legal position of genetically modified crops in India:

In India, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex body that allows for commercial release of GM crops.

What is Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)?

It is responsible for the appraisal of activities involving large-scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production from the environmental angle.
The committee is also responsible for the appraisal of proposals relating to the release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms and products into the environment including experimental field trials.
GEAC is chaired by the Special Secretary/Additional Secretary of MoEF&CC and co-chaired by a representative from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).