Regulating Transgenic Crops in India: Processes and State Deferrals Explained; Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee's Next Move and Prospects for Increased GMO Testing Acceptance Discussed.
The story so far:
The proposal to conduct trials on a new variety of transgenic cotton seed, containing the Cry2Ai gene for resistance against pink bollworm, has been deferred by three states—Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana. This disagreement highlights the ongoing challenge of achieving widespread acceptance of genetically modified crops.
What is the status of transgenic crops in India?
Transgenic crops like brinjal, tomato, maize, and chickpea are undergoing trials in India, but only cotton is currently being commercially cultivated. Recently, the environmental release of Mustard hybrid DMH-11 was approved by the GEAC, a technical body responsible for evaluating GM seed proposals. However, the final decision on transgenic crops lies with the Supreme Court due to ongoing litigation filed by activists and NGOs. The petitioners have requested a stay on the release of DMH-11, citing concerns about herbicide use. Hearings on this matter are still in progress. Previous approvals for GM mustard and GM Brinjal were reversed or put on hold in the past.
What is the process of regulating transgenic crops in India?
Developing transgenic crops involves a complex process of inserting genes into plants to trigger a sustained protective response. Safety assessments by committees are conducted before testing in open plots controlled by agricultural universities or the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR). Only when a transgenic plant proves to be superior to non-GM variants without harming other species nearby, it can seek commercial clearance. Field trials are carried out in various seasons and geographical conditions to evaluate its suitability across different states.
Why have Gujarat, Maharashtra and Telangana rebuffed the GEAC?
Hyderabad-based Bioseed Research India has developed a cotton seed with Cry2Ai, making it resistant to pink bollworm. The seed has passed confined trials and received recommendations for field testing in Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Haryana. However, only Haryana granted permission for the tests. Other states either declined or did not provide reasons. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has requested the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the ICAR to organize capacity-building activities to inform the states about GM crop technology and regulations. Activist groups criticized the GEAC's approach, considering it biased.
Are there changes in the offing in process of regulation of GM crops?
The GEAC, led by an Environment Ministry official and co-chaired by a DBT scientist, is contemplating designating certain regions in India as "notified testing sites." This proposal aims to address the issue of differing attitudes towards GM crops among states. If approved, companies would not require state permissions to conduct trials of GM crops at these 42 proposed sites.
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