Write the merits and limitations of using genetically modified crops. Present a brief account on the application of GM technology in India.

Merits of Genetically Modified Crops

GM crops offer several potential advantages for farmers, consumers, and the environment:

• Increased Yields: GM crops, particularly those resistant to pests and diseases, can significantly increase crop yields, contributing to food security. For example, Bt cotton has demonstrably increased cotton yields in many regions.
• Reduced Pesticide Use: Crops like Bt cotton, expressing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins, reduce the need for synthetic pesticides, lowering input costs and environmental impact.
• Herbicide Tolerance: Herbicide-tolerant GM crops simplify weed management, allowing farmers to use broad-spectrum herbicides effectively.
• Improved Nutritional Value: Genetic modification can enhance the nutritional content of crops, addressing micronutrient deficiencies. Golden Rice, engineered to produce beta-carotene (a precursor to Vitamin A), exemplifies this.
• Climate Change Adaptation: GM technology can be used to develop crops that are more tolerant to drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures, crucial for adapting to climate change.

Limitations of Genetically Modified Crops

Despite the benefits, GM crops are associated with several concerns:

• Environmental Risks: Potential for development of herbicide-resistant weeds, impact on non-target organisms (e.g., beneficial insects), and gene flow to wild relatives are significant concerns.
• Human Health Concerns: Allergies and potential long-term health effects remain a subject of ongoing research and debate, though rigorous testing is generally required before approval.
• Economic Dependence: GM seeds are often patented by multinational corporations, leading to farmer dependence and increased input costs.
• Biodiversity Loss: Widespread adoption of a few GM crop varieties can reduce genetic diversity in agriculture, making crops more vulnerable to new pests and diseases.
• Ethical Concerns: Concerns regarding "playing God" and the potential for unintended consequences raise ethical questions.

Application of GM Technology in India

India has a complex history with GM crops. While the country has embraced Bt cotton, other GM crops face regulatory hurdles.

• Bt Cotton: Introduced in 2002, Bt cotton has become widely adopted, contributing to increased cotton production and reduced pesticide use. However, issues related to seed prices and resistance development have also emerged.
• Other GM Crops: GM mustard, herbicide-tolerant soybean, and GM rice (though controversial) have been developed and are awaiting regulatory approvals. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) regulates GM crop approvals in India.
• Regulatory Framework: India's regulatory framework for GM crops is evolving. The 2002 Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety governs international trade in GM products. The Supreme Court of India has also weighed in on GM crop issues, emphasizing caution and rigorous biosafety assessments.

Feature	GM Crops	Non-GM Crops
Genetic Modification	DNA altered through genetic engineering	Natural genetic variation through traditional breeding
Pest Resistance	Often engineered for pest resistance (e.g., Bt cotton)	Relies on pesticides or traditional breeding for pest control
Yield Potential	Potentially higher yields	Yields dependent on factors like soil, water, and pest control
Cost	Higher initial seed cost, potentially lower input costs (pesticides)	Lower initial seed cost, potentially higher input costs (pesticides)

The Indian government’s National Biotech Strategy document emphasizes the importance of biotechnology for agricultural development, while also highlighting the need for responsible regulation and public engagement.