Laws and judgements related to GM Mustard
Introduction:
- Genetically Modified (GM) crops are engineered to possess new traits such as increased yield, disease resistance, or tolerance to herbicides. The Supreme Court’s split verdict on GM mustard reflects the contentious nature of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their role in Indian agriculture. The verdict addresses concerns about environmental safety and regulatory processes, setting the stage for future policies on GM crops.
Key Highlights of the Supreme Court Verdict on GM Mustard
Reason Behind the Split Judgment:
- Justice Nagarathna criticized the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) for approving the GM mustard project without relying on indigenous studies regarding its environmental impact in India. The approval was based solely on foreign research, which Justice Nagarathna found insufficient.
- Justice Karol, on the other hand, supported the GEAC’s decision to allow the commercial release of GM mustard.
Concordant Points:
- Both judges agreed on the necessity of judicial review of the GEAC’s decisions.
- They emphasized the need for the Centre to develop a national policy on GM crops, considering all aspects including research, cultivation, trade, and commerce.
- Directive for National Policy:
- The judges directed the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest to formulate a comprehensive national policy and associated rules within four months.
- This policy should be developed in consultation with various stakeholders, including agriculture experts, biotechnologists, state governments, and farmer representatives.
GEAC’s Role:
- The GEAC had approved the environmental release of Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11) in October 2022.
What is GM Mustard?
About GM Mustard:
- Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11) is an Indian-developed GM mustard variety, created by hybridizing the Indian mustard variety ‘Varuna’ with ‘Early Heera-2’, an Eastern European variety.
- It contains two alien genes (‘barnase’ and ‘barstar’) from the soil bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, which enhance the breeding of high-yielding mustard hybrids.
Characteristics:
- Classified as a Herbicide Tolerant (HT) variety, GM mustard is engineered to withstand specific herbicides, aiding in weed control and increasing crop yield.
Significance:
Mustard Contribution in Oil Production and Imports:
- India produced 116.5 lakh tonnes of edible oils in 2021-22 but imported 141.93 lakh tonnes, highlighting a supply gap.
- Mustard accounts for 40% of India’s total edible oil production.
Potential Yield Enhancement:
- GM Mustard offers a yield increase of approximately 28% compared to national standards and exceeds zonal benchmarks by around 37%.
- Varieties like DMH-11 could increase yields to 3-3.5 tonnes per hectare.
Improved Input Efficiency:
- It requires less water, fertilizers, and pesticides, supporting sustainable agriculture practices and reducing environmental impact.
Reduced Price Volatility:
- Enhanced production may stabilize edible oil prices, benefiting consumers and ensuring food security.
What are Genetically Modified (GM) Crops?
- GM crops are plants whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering to exhibit new traits such as increased yield or pest resistance.
- India has previously approved Bt cotton for commercial cultivation, and now GEAC has recommended GM mustard for similar use.
Challenges Faced by Bt Cotton
Insect Resistance:
- Emergence of resistance to the Bt toxin by insects has been a significant challenge.
Secondary Pest Outbreaks:
- Control of bollworms with Bt cotton has led to increased populations of other pests like aphids and whiteflies.
Environmental Impact:
- Concerns about the effects of Bt cotton on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects.
- Economic Implications:
- Long-term economic benefits of Bt cotton are debated, with some studies showing diminishing returns.
What is the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)?
Function:
- GEAC, under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), evaluates the environmental impact of genetically engineered organisms and products.
- It reviews proposals for large-scale use of hazardous microorganisms and GM organisms.
- Structure:
- Chaired by the Special Secretary/Additional Secretary of MoEF&CC and co-chaired by a representative from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
- Comprises 24 members and meets monthly.
Concerns Associated with GM Mustard:
Biodiversity Concerns:
- Potential impacts on honeybees and other beneficial insects, which could disrupt ecological balances.
Food Security and Health Concerns:
- Risks of monoculture increasing vulnerability to diseases and climate change impacts.
- Potential health risks from novel proteins not previously part of the human diet.
Ethical Considerations:
- Issues around the commodification of genetic resources and implications for agricultural sovereignty.
Regulatory Challenges:
- Ensuring adherence to bio-safety protocols and monitoring long-term impacts requires strong institutional frameworks.
Way Forward:
Biodiversity Mitigation:
- Conduct in-depth research on ecological impacts and implement adaptive management strategies.
Food Safety and Human Health:
- Perform risk assessments on allergenicity and toxicity of novel proteins. Invest in long-term studies to monitor impacts on food security.
Ethical Considerations:
- Ensure equitable access to GM technologies and protect traditional farming practices.
Capacity Building:
- Strengthen regulatory institutions, enhance testing facilities, and improve data collection and analysis.
- This comprehensive approach will help address the concerns surrounding GM mustard and guide the development of a robust regulatory framework for future GM crop approvals.
