Hindu Editorial Analysis : 18-September-2023
The recent environmental release of DMH-11, a genetically modified hybrid variety of mustard, signifies a significant turning point in India’s agricultural landscape. This genetically modified mustard, developed after extensive research, holds the potential to revolutionize the country’s edible oil production, bolster farmers’ incomes, and contribute to self-reliance in edible oil. In this essay, we will explore the global adoption of GM crops, the challenges faced by India in edible oil production, and the significance of GM Mustard, also known as Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11), in addressing these challenges.
Global Adoption of GM Crops
- Worldwide Adoption: According to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA) 2020 report, 72 countries worldwide have embraced genetically modified (GM) crops, using them for human consumption, animal feed, and commercial cultivation.
- Developing Countries Lead: Surprisingly, 56% of the global GM crop area is situated in developing countries, showcasing their increasing adoption.
- Impact on Billions: GM crops have positively impacted over 1.95 billion people across five countries: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, India, and the United States. This accounts for 26% of the world’s population.
- Success Story in India: India has had a 20-year-long success story with GM crops, beginning with Bt cotton, which brought economic advantages to farmers and the nation as a whole.
- Expanding Horizons: Genetic modification has expanded beyond the primary four crops (maize, soybean, cotton, and canola) to encompass other vital food crops, enhancing traits such as insect and herbicide resistance, climate resilience, and nutritional quality.
- Proven Biosafety: GM food crops have been globally recognized for their biosafety for over 25 years.
Challenges of India’s Edible Oil Production
- Low Mustard Yield: Mustard is a crucial edible oil crop in India, but its yield per hectare falls significantly below the global average.
- Importance of Increasing Productivity: To ensure the economic well-being of farmers and attain self-sufficiency in edible oil production, raising mustard productivity is paramount.
- Edible Oil Deficit: India grapples with a significant deficit in edible oil production, with 60% of its demand met through imports.
- Vast Import Bill: In the year 2020-21, India’s edible oil imports amounted to approximately 13 million tonnes, valued at ₹1.17 lakh crore.
GM Mustard – A Game Changer
- Dhara Mustard Hybrid: Genetic engineering, conducted at the Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP), University of Delhi South Campus, has given birth to DMH-11, a genetically modified Dhara Mustard Hybrid. This hybrid boasts higher vigor and yield potential, promising to boost domestic edible oil production and augment farmers’ incomes.
- Government’s Approval: In October 2022, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, made a historic decision by approving the release of DMH-11 and its parental line for cultivation.
Significance of GM Mustard
- Research Advancement: This decision is poised to invigorate the genetic engineering research sector in India, paving the way for the development of new crop varieties with improved traits.
- Yield Increase: Farmers stand to benefit from increased yields per hectare, potentially transforming their economic fortunes.
- Reducing Import Dependency: Cultivating these indigenous GM mustard hybrids can significantly reduce India’s reliance on edible oil imports, cutting down the import burden.
- A Step Towards Self-Reliance: Achieving self-reliance in edible oil production is a crucial goal, and GM Mustard could play a pivotal role in realizing this vision.
Why In News
The environmental release of DMH-11, a genetically modified hybrid variety of mustard, heralds a transformative chapter in agriculture, promising increased self-reliance and sustainability for our food production. This innovative mustard variety not only boosts crop yields but also demonstrates our commitment to environmentally conscious farming practices, paving the way for a greener future.
MCQs about GM Mustard: Transforming India’s Edible Oil Landscape
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What organization reported that 72 countries worldwide have adopted GM crops?
A. United Nations (UN)
B. International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA)
C. World Health Organization (WHO)
D. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
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Which government committee approved the release of DMH-11 for cultivation in India?
A. Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)
B. Ministry of Agriculture
C. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
D. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
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What is the primary significance of GM Mustard, also known as Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11), in Indian agriculture?
A. It’s primarily used for animal feed.
B. It reduces the need for pesticide use.
C. It has no impact on edible oil production.
D. It contributes to increased edible oil production and farmer incomes.
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