Why in news?
The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) faced protests over confined field trials of genetically modified (GM) maize that combines herbicide tolerance and insect resistance traits. The trials were part of a national biosafety assessment before commercial release.
Background
- India uses a regulatory system to evaluate genetically modified crops through Biosafety Research Level‑I and Level‑II (BRL‑I and BRL‑II) trials. Only after rigorous testing can a GM crop be approved for cultivation.
- GM maize under trial has two traits: tolerance to a specific herbicide and insect resistance via Bt genes. The technology has been developed by a private company in collaboration with academic and government institutions.
Aims of the trials
- Assess the crop’s agronomic performance under Indian conditions and evaluate its resistance to pests and weeds.
- Examine potential environmental impacts such as gene flow to non‑GM maize and effects on non‑target organisms.
- Generate data for scientific and regulatory decision‑making before any commercial release.
Controversy and significance
- Activists worry about unintended consequences for biodiversity, farmer livelihoods and food safety. They argue that GM crops may promote corporate control over seeds.
- Proponents emphasise evidence‑based evaluation and point to successful adoption of Bt cotton, which increased yields and reduced pesticide use.
- The debate reflects broader tensions between food security, environmental protection and technological innovation.
Conclusion
Confined trials of GM maize aim to gather scientific data before any decision on commercialisation. Transparent, rigorous assessments are vital to balance productivity gains with ecological and socio‑economic concerns.