Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Introduce by defining the Genetic modification technology
• Highlight the regulatory framework for genetically modified organisms in India
• Delve into potential benefits and risks associated with genetic modification technology.
• Suggest a Way Forward
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

Genetic modification technology, also known as genetic engineering, refers to the process of altering the genetic material of an organism by introducing, removing, or modifying specific genes.

• In India, the application of this technology is governed by a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at ensuring the safe development, handling, and commercialization of GMOs while harnessing their benefits.

Regulatory Framework for Genetically Modified Organisms in India:

• Umbrella Legislation: The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, provides the overarching framework.
• Specific Rules: The Rules for the Manufacture/Use/Import/Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms, Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells (1989) establish a regulatory process for GMOs.
• Implementing Body: The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) functions as the apex body for approving research, development, commercialization, and import/export of GMOs.
  • Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RDAC) reviews developments in biotechnology at national and international level and recommend suitable and appropriate safety regulations for India in r-DNA research, use and applications.
• State-Level Coordination: State Biosafety Coordination Committees (SBCCs) and District Level Committees (DLCs) support implementation at state and district levels.

Potential Benefits of Genetic Modification Technology:

• Increased Crop Yields: Genetic modification can enhance crop yields by introducing traits like pest resistance, drought tolerance, and improved nutrient utilization, contributing to food security.
  • Example: Bt cotton, genetically modified to resist bollworm pests, has led to significant yield increases in India.
• Improved Nutritional Quality: Biofortification through genetic modification can enhance the nutritional value of crops by increasing essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
  • Example: Golden Rice, enriched with Vitamin A, has the potential to address micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries.
• Reduced Pesticide and Herbicide Use: Crops genetically engineered for pest resistance or herbicide tolerance can reduce the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides, promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing environmental impact.
• Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications: Genetic modification can contribute to the production of therapeutic proteins, vaccines, and other medical products through genetically modified microorganisms or plants.

Potential Risks and Concerns:

• Environmental Risks: The unintended spread of transgenes from GMOs to non-target species (gene flow) and the potential impact on biodiversity and ecosystem balance are major concerns.
• Food Safety and Health Concerns: There are concerns about the potential allergenicity, toxicity, and long-term health impacts of consuming genetically modified foods, although extensive studies have not found significant risks so far.
• Ethical and Social Concerns: The patenting of genetically modified organisms and the potential monopolization of the seed industry by large corporations raise ethical and social concerns related to access, affordability, and farmers' rights.
• Regulatory and Biosafety Challenges: Ensuring robust risk assessment, monitoring, and enforcement of biosafety regulations remains a challenge, particularly in developing countries like India with resource constraints.

Way Forward

• Post-Market Monitoring: Implementing stricter post-market monitoring programs to track the long-term effects of GMOs once released into the environment.
• Transparency and Labeling: Ensure clear labeling of GMO products to give consumers the right to choose.
• Leveraging Technological Advancements: Promote research on newer, more precise gene editing techniques like CRISPR to minimize unintended consequences.
  • Develop robust risk assessment tools to comprehensively evaluate potential risks associated with specific GMOs before approval.
• Promote stewardship and coexistence: Implementing robust biosafety measures, such as isolation distances, buffer zones, and containment strategies, to prevent gene flow of GMO and minimize environmental risks.
  • Encouraging the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, such as integrated pest management and crop rotation, to reduce reliance on GMOs and chemical inputs.
• Harmonization of Regulations: Collaborating with other countries to harmonize regulations for GMOs, ensuring a consistent global approach.
  • Promoting information sharing on GMO research and risk assessment findings.

Conclusion

A robust regulatory framework, continuous monitoring, and inclusive stakeholder engagement are imperative for harnessing the potential of GMOs to enhance food security (SDG 2), promote sustainable agriculture (SDGs 2 and 15), and contribute to human health (SDG 3), while effectively managing the associated risks and addressing ethical, social, and environmental concerns.