Q. With reference to the genetically modified (GM) crops, consider the following statements:
1.GM crops are primarily developed to resist pests, tolerate herbicides, withstand harsh environmental conditions, and enhance yields.
2.Golden Rice is a GM crop that is cultivated globally.
3.Nagoya Protocol regulates the safe transfer and use of genetically modified organisms.
4.Bt Cotton is the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India.
Which of the statements give above are correct?
Explanations –
Statements 1 and 4 are correct. GM crops are designed for traits such as pest resistance (e.g., Bt crops), herbicide tolerance, improved yield, and resilience to environmental stress like droughts or extreme temperatures. As of now, Bt Cotton is the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India. Other GM crops like Bt Brinjal and GM Mustard have been proposed but are not yet approved for commercial use in India.
Statements 2 and 3 are incorrect. Golden Rice, which is genetically modified to produce beta-carotene (a precursor to Vitamin A), has been approved in some countries but is not yet widely cultivated globally. The regulation of GMOs is governed by protocols like the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.
Source: The Hindu
