Introduction – Why this Topic Matters for UPSC/JKAS
In July 2024, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change amended rules related to expert selection for the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC). This seemingly small bureaucratic change has sparked a much larger debate on genetically modified (GM) crops, scientific independence, and environmental ethics in India.
This topic intersects GS Paper 3 (Science & Technology, Environment), GS Paper 2 (Governance), and even Ethics—making it extremely relevant for UPSC and JKAS aspirants.
What is GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee)?
The GEAC is the central body under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, that grants approval for environmental release of GMOs and products thereof. It is the final authority on commercial cultivation of genetically modified crops in India.
Key Points:
- Works under MoEFCC
- Established via EPA Rules 1989
- Includes officials, scientists, and ministry representatives
GEAC’s Role in Regulating GM Crops
The GEAC evaluates biosafety data, environmental impact, and health concerns before approving any GM organism for testing or commercialization. Its role is crucial in ensuring that biotechnology advances are safe, ethical, and sustainable.
Examples of GEAC’s influence:
- Approval of Bt Cotton in 2002
- Controversial greenlight to GM Mustard (DMH-11) in 2022
What Changed in the GEAC Rules (2024 Amendment)?
On July 12, 2024, a key change was notified in the GEAC framework:
- Earlier: External experts were nominated by autonomous scientific institutions.
- Now: The Central Government has complete discretion over appointments, with no mandated involvement of scientific bodies.
This seemingly administrative move may have deep implications for scientific integrity and independence in GM crop regulation.
Previous vs New Selection Process
| Criteria | Old System | New System |
|---|---|---|
| Nominating Body | Scientific institutions | Central Government |
| Selection Process | Peer-based, academic | Administrative, less transparent |
| Risk of Bias | Low | Higher, due to lack of safeguards |
Why Is This Change Controversial?
Critics argue that this amendment:
- Compromises scientific autonomy
- Opens the door to corporate lobbying
- Undermines biosafety evaluation
Supporters claim it can streamline processes, but the lack of transparency has fueled protests from environmental groups and scientists.
GM Mustard – India’s First GM Food Crop
GM Mustard (DMH-11) was developed by Delhi University using the Barnase-Barstar-Bar gene system to enhance hybridization and yield.
Key Milestones:
- Cleared for environmental release by GEAC in 2022
- Strong opposition from civil society, farmers, and health experts
- Currently under Supreme Court scrutiny
Opponents cite risks to pollinators like bees, potential health hazards, and loss of seed sovereignty.
Understanding GM Crops – A UPSC Primer
Genetically Modified (GM) Crops are created by altering plant DNA using biotechnology to improve traits like pest resistance, drought tolerance, or yield.
Advantages:
- Higher productivity
- Reduced pesticide use
- Potential to address food security
Disadvantages:
- Environmental concerns
- Unknown long-term health effects
- Loss of biodiversity
GM-Free India Movement
The GM-Free India movement is a coalition of activists, scientists, and farmer organizations opposing the use of GMOs in Indian agriculture.
Core Demands:
- Ban on GM food crops
- Transparent public consultations
- Promotion of traditional and organic farming
They argue GM crops could threaten India’s biodiversity and food sovereignty.
India’s Regulatory Framework for GMOs
India’s regulation of GMOs involves multiple laws and authorities:
- EPA 1986 & Rules 1989 – Legal foundation for GEAC
- FSSAI – Regulates GM foods
- Biological Diversity Act 2002 – Protects indigenous genetic resources
- State Biotechnology Coordination Committees (SBCC) – Monitor at the state level
This multi-layered structure aims to ensure biosafety and ethical oversight.
Environment vs Biotechnology – A Policy Balancing Act
The GEAC amendment brings us to a broader question: Can India pursue agricultural biotechnology without compromising environmental ethics and transparency?
Biotechnology can solve many agrarian problems—but only with rigorous biosafety evaluations, independent expert oversight, and inclusive public dialogue.
Key Technical Terms Simplified
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) | Insecticidal gene used in GM crops like Bt Cotton |
| Herbicide Tolerance | Crop survives chemical sprays used to kill weeds |
| rDNA Technology | Recombinant DNA used to modify genes |
| Confined Field Trials | Controlled GM testing under regulatory supervision |
| Barnase-Barstar | Gene system used to develop GM Mustard |
| Biosafety | Measures to prevent harm to humans and the environment |
Supreme Court & GEAC – Legal Oversight
The Supreme Court of India has taken up several cases related to GM crops:
- Called for a Technical Expert Committee (TEC) in 2012
- Recommended a moratorium on GM food crops
- Currently hearing petitions on GM Mustard approval
The Court has stressed the need for scientific evidence, public trust, and constitutional safeguards.
Global Perspective – GM Crop Policies in Other Nations
| Country | Policy |
|---|---|
| USA | Pro-GM, heavy cultivation of corn and soy |
| EU | Strict laws, labeling mandatory, few GM approvals |
| Brazil | GM crop friendly with safety assessments |
| India | Cautious, limited to Bt Cotton, active legal scrutiny |
India’s policy is somewhere between the permissive U.S. and restrictive EU model.
UPSC/JKAS Key Points Summary
📝 For Prelims:
- GEAC under MoEFCC, formed via EPA Rules 1989
- Only commercial GM crop in India: Bt Cotton
- First GM food crop approved: GM Mustard (DMH-11)
✍️ For Mains:
- Pros and cons of GM technology in agriculture
- Role of judiciary in environmental policy
- Debate on scientific vs administrative control in policy-making
FAQs
1. What is GEAC’s main function?
To evaluate and approve the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and ensure biosafety.
2. What changed in GEAC rules in 2024?
Expert selection is now under full central government control, reducing institutional independence.
3. What is GM Mustard and why is it controversial?
A genetically modified food crop aiming to increase yield; it’s controversial due to environmental and health concerns.
4. Is GM food cultivation allowed in India?
Only Bt Cotton is approved; GM Mustard is under legal scrutiny.
5. What is the GM-Free India campaign?
A civil society initiative opposing the use of GM food crops and advocating for organic, sustainable farming.
6. Can Supreme Court stop GEAC’s decisions?
Yes, GEAC decisions are subject to judicial review, especially when public interest is at stake.
Conclusion – The Road Ahead
India stands at a crossroads. The GEAC amendment of 2024 has rekindled fundamental questions about the role of science in policymaking, public accountability, and ethical governance.
If India is to embrace biotechnology, it must do so with transparency, scientific integrity, and ecological responsibility. Only then can we achieve true food security without compromising biodiversity.
For aspirants, this topic is not just current affairs—it’s a masterclass in understanding policy, ethics, and science through the lens of real-world governance.
🔗 Further Reading: GEAC Official Portal – MoEFCC
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