Context & The Gist
The article addresses India's looming food security challenge, projected to feed 1.7 billion people by 2060 amidst dwindling resources and climate change. It argues that embracing genetic engineering (GE) and precision breeding, beyond the limited adoption of GM cotton, is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing import dependence.
Key Arguments & Nuances
- Missed Opportunities in GM Technology:
India lagged in fully utilizing the GM revolution, particularly after the commercialization of Bollgard-II Bt cotton in 2006, due to opposition from activist groups. This resulted in a loss of potential benefits and hindered agricultural progress.
- Progress in Genome Editing (GE):
Recent developments, including the identification of GE rice lines with enhanced yield and stress tolerance, and field trials of pest-resistant mustard, demonstrate progress in GE technology. These advancements utilize CRISPR-Cas9 for precise gene editing.
- Indigenous Technology Development:
ICAR's development of a new TnpB-based GE tool offers an alternative to US-controlled CRISPR-Cas9 systems, addressing concerns about technological dependence and potential monopolies by foreign agritech companies.
- The Cost of Science Denial:
The article highlights the negative consequences of blocking the release of GM hybrid mustard, leading to the demoralization of the agricultural science community and increased reliance on imports (e.g., vegetable oils, cotton).
UPSC Syllabus Relevance
- GS Paper II: Government Policies & Agriculture - Issues related to agricultural biotechnology, seed technology, and government policies concerning GM crops.
- GS Paper III: Science & Technology - Developments in biotechnology, including genome editing, and their applications in agriculture.
- GS Paper III: Economy - Food security, agricultural productivity, and the impact of technology on the Indian economy.
Prelims Data Bank
- CRISPR-Cas9: A revolutionary gene-editing technology allowing precise modifications to DNA.
- Bollgard-II Bt: Genetically modified cotton variety resistant to bollworms, commercialized in India in 2006.
- ICAR: Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the premier body for coordinating agricultural research and education in India.
- Transposon-associated protein (TnpB): A newly patented indigenous GE tool developed by ICAR scientists.
Mains Critical Analysis
The article underscores the critical need for a pragmatic approach to agricultural biotechnology in India. The challenges stem from public perception, activist opposition, and concerns about corporate control. However, the opportunities presented by GE and precision breeding are immense, offering solutions to enhance food security, improve crop resilience, and reduce import dependence. A key implication is the potential for increased farmer incomes and a more sustainable agricultural system. The critical gap lies in bridging the gap between scientific advancements and public acceptance, requiring transparent communication and robust regulatory frameworks.
PESTLE Analysis
- Political: Government policies regarding GM/GE crops, regulatory approvals, and intellectual property rights.
- Economic: Impact on agricultural productivity, import bills, farmer incomes, and the agritech industry.
- Social: Public perception, consumer acceptance, and the role of activist groups.
- Technological: Advancements in gene editing technologies (CRISPR-Cas9, TnpB), and their accessibility.
- Legal: Biosafety regulations, intellectual property laws, and legal challenges related to GM/GE crops.
- Environmental: Potential environmental impacts of GM/GE crops, including biodiversity and pesticide use.
Value Addition
- Deepak Pental Case: The delayed release of GM mustard developed by Deepak Pental highlights the challenges faced by Indian scientists in commercializing GM crops.
- Monsanto/Bayer: The dominance of Monsanto/Bayer in the GM cotton market serves as a cautionary tale regarding technological dependence.
- Swadeshi & Environmentalism: The article critiques the misuse of 'swadeshi' and environmental concerns to oppose scientific advancements.
- Quote: “The answer to tech monopolies cannot be science denial.” – The Indian Express Editorial
The Way Forward
- Immediate Measure: Streamline the regulatory approval process for GE crops, ensuring scientific rigor and transparency.
- Long-term Reform: Invest in indigenous research and development of GE technologies, fostering a self-reliant agricultural biotechnology sector. Promote public awareness and education regarding the benefits and risks of GE crops.