India has long resisted permitting Genetically Modified (GM) crops such as corn, soy to be grown on the country’s soil. But now it seems that ongoing trade talks with the United States might be pushing India to soften the stance of resisting crops
During recent trade talks in Washington, India said to had offered to ease some restrictions. For instance, on importing genetically modified corn. Moreover, the government is considering broader changes to allow the cultivation of GM food crops in the country.
Why is India cautious about Genetically Modified crops?
Currently, India has only allowed Genetically Modified (GM) crops such as cotton and restricted the majority of GM crops using laws, court rulings, and regulatory bodies. Notably, strong opposition comes from farmer groups as they had done a year-long protest by hundreds of thousands of farmers during the pandemic, marking one of the low points of the prime minister’s tenure, and ended with major concessions. Apparently, an effort to introduce GM brinjal, or eggplant, faltered back in 2010 under similar opposition, environmentalists, and political pressures in rural areas. Furthermore, approving GM crops is seen by opponents as risky or as too much US influence.
What changes could be made in this regard?
A major court decision is expected about a genetically engineered rapeseed (used for oil)-whether it can be grown in India. If approved, it could set a precedent. Allowing GM crops could help in increasing crop yields, reducing dependence on imports, and enhancing farm productivity and rural incomes. No doubt, the political risks are high and farmers could protest, and any move will have to navigate public opinion, legal complexity and risk perceptions.