SC for more data on GM mustard:

SC for more data on GM mustard:

SC for more scientific information on GM mustard)

Context:

• The Supreme Court told the Centre on Monday that if Genetically Modified (GM) mustard crop has an adverse impact on the other crops, it would injunct its commercial release till it decides the petition seeking a moratorium on growing the crop

Introduction:

• A Bench of Chief Justice of India J.S.Khehar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud said an injunction order would be passed if it was found that GM mustard affected health and lives for generations.
• The court scheduled the case for hearing on July 31.
• The court asked additional solicitor general Tushar Mehta to supply scientific data to support the regulator’s approval.

Controversy about GM Mustard:

• GM mustard will require almost double the quantity of fertilser and water.
• GM mustard can affect honeybees directly and indirectly through effecting flowering and pollen production.
• The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee, which is responsible for approving large-scale releases and commercialization of GMOs, functions under the Ministry of Environment and Forest and is not entirely independent.

Conclusion: In a current environment where climatic change would have negative effects on yield of many major crops which could seriously undermine food security, GM crops are the way forward.