Genetically modified crops are plants whose DNA is modified using genetic engineering methods. The genes of these plans are artificially modified. This is usually done by inserting the genetic material of an organism into another one. This gives the plants new properties, including herbicide tolerance, resistance to disease or drought, increased yield, or improved nutritional value. Only the cultivation of Bt Cotton has been approved as a commercial crop in India. No other crop is approved for commercial cultivation in the country.
The first GM crop variety of India approved was Bt cotton, Bollgard-I, developed by Monsanto and provided immunity against bollworm.
Different types of Genetically modified crops (GM crops):
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GM rice
The confined trial of GM rice has been allowed in India. It would have improved resistance to diseases and insects and nutritional enhancements such as golden rice. Various countries buy Indian rice. The US, the UK, and the West Asian nations stand as the biggest importers of basmati. Whereas African countries, Nepal, and Bangladesh are the majority buyers of non-basmati rice.
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Corn
Most GM corn is created to resist and tolerate herbicides or insect pests. Bt corn produces proteins that stand toxic for certain insect pests. GM corn is used to feed livestock like cows, chickens, etc.
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Soybean
GM Soy is used to making soybean oil and is used as animal food. These oils are used as ingredients in processed food.
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Cotton
Bt Cotton produced in India are insect-resistant transgenic crop designed to combat the bollworm. It provides a reliable source of cotton for the textile industry and cotton seeds for cottonseed oil.
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Potato
GM potatoes are developed to resist browning and bruising that can occur when they are packaged or transported.
There are various other Genetically Modified crops developed in various parts of the world in different countries for different reasons. Some other GM crops are papaya, summer squash, canola, alfalfa, apple, sugar beet, pink pineapple, etc.
Controversies against Genetically Modified crops
Although genetic engineering is developing daily, it still remains a controversial topic. Opponents say that GM crops are not suitable for various reasons, including food safety, environmental impacts, etc. The question is also if it is accessible to farmers in developing countries. There are concerns subject to intellectual property rights.
