• UGI USER
  • Jul 24, 2024
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SUPREME COURT’S SPLIT VERDICT ON GM MUSTARD

Why in the news?

  • Supreme Court’s split verdict on GM mustard approval raises regulatory concerns; judges call for national policy on GM crops.
  • Petition challenging environmental release of GM mustard DMH-11.
  • Delhi University’s Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP) and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
SUPREME COURT'S SPLIT VERDICT ON GM MUSTARD  - UPSCsource:HT

About GM Mustard DMH-11 Development:

  • Creation: Crossed Indian variety Varuna with Eastern European ‘Early Heera-2’.
  • Yield: 28% higher yield than Varuna.
  • Method: Uses Cytoplasmic Male Sterility System; gene transfer from wild mustard.
  • Technique: Barnase-Barstar system for hybrid production; makes plant male-sterile and herbicide-resistant.
  • Results: 30% higher yield over Varuna; bio-safety field trials conducted between 2010-15.
  • Team: Developed by Delhi University’s CGMCP with NDDB and Department of Biotechnology.
What are Genetically Modified (GM) Crops?

  • About: GM crops have genes altered for traits like increased yield, disease resistance, or drought tolerance.
  • Example: Golden Rice enriched with Vitamin A.

Advantages:

  • Increased yield
  • Adapted to specific climates

Disadvantages:

  • Limited seed options and cost
  • Non-replantable seeds
  • Potential environmental and ethical concerns