New Delhi: Genetically modified (GM) crops are a new addition to crop varieties developed through traditional methods such as breeding, selection and mutation.
It is important to adopt farming technologies like genetically modified (GM) crops to ensure food security and cut a reliance on imports. For countries like India it has become a necessity to increase the output of food grains to meet the needs of its huge population.
The India environment ministry has recently granted clearance for indigenously developed GM mustard seeds, paving the way for a commercial release of the country's first food crop in about two years.
Cotton is the only GM crop now allowed for cultivation in India.
India is the world's second-largest consumer and number one importer of vegetable oil, and it meets 55-60 per cent of its need through imports. Although the oilseed production in India has grown over the years, the production has lagged its consumption, resulting in continuous dependence on imports.
"Strengthening of plant breeding programmes including the use of GE technology is important for meeting challenges of Indian farm sector and ensuring food security," minister of state in the environment ministry, Ashwini Kumar Choubey, said, while referring to genetically engineered crops.
India spent $19 billion on vegetable oil import last fiscal year that ended on March 31.
The Indian minister said the environmental release would help scientists study any effect of GM mustard on bees and other pollinators.
Scientists say India's growing population and shrinking cultivable land mean it needs to adopt efficient ways of farming to feed its nearly 1.4 billion people.
There are safety concerns among the public, although the benefits outweigh the risks. Among the potential risks are pests becoming resistant, and GM foods posing safety issues to both human and animals.
Despite safety concerns, the world can be assured that GM crops are safe for use.
