Strictness for GM crops
04-Jan-2025 12:09 PM
The issue of genetically modified (GM) crops in India has been a contentious one for years, with concerns about transparency, safety, and environmental impact playing a significant role in the debate.
In recent developments, the Indian government has taken steps to address these concerns by issuing an important notification on December 31, 2024.
This notification proposes amendments to the existing rules governing the approval process for GM crops, particularly through the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), the body responsible for regulating GM organisms in India.
The notification highlights the government's aim to enhance transparency in the decision-making process of the GEAC. One key provision requires members of the GEAC to disclose any personal or business interests they may have in GM crops,
ensuring that their decisions are not influenced by conflicts of interest. This is a significant step, as it aims to promote accountability and reduce the potential for bias in the approval process.
Currently, only BT cotton, a non-edible crop, is allowed for commercial cultivation in India. However, other GM crops, such as mustard and brinjal, have been developed but have not yet received approval for commercial production.
The government’s move to amend the rules reflects a growing recognition of the need for greater scrutiny and clarity in how GM crops are regulated.
The new measures also include restrictions on the participation of GEAC members in public discussions or statements related to GM crops under consideration.
Members who are directly involved in the decision-making process will be prohibited from making public statements about the crops being evaluated.
Furthermore, those joining the GEAC will be required to declare, in writing, that they have no vested interests in the GM crops being assessed.
These reforms are intended to bring greater transparency to the process of granting approval for GM crops, addressing public concerns and ensuring that decisions are made based on scientific evidence and without undue external influence.
While these changes mark a step forward, the approval of GM food crops remains a sensitive issue, and it is likely that the debate surrounding their safety and environmental impact will continue for the foreseeable future.