Supreme Court on GM Mustard

 the Supreme Court of India has raised concerns regarding the biosafety of transgenic mustard hybrid DMH-11, despite it being approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) for environmental release. This is a complex and sensitive issue with various perspectives involved. Here's what I can share:

Background on DMH-11:

• DMH-11 is a genetically modified mustard hybrid developed by Professor Deepak Pental from the University of Delhi.

• It aims to increase mustard yields in India and reduce the country's dependence on edible oil imports.

• It incorporates genes from soil bacteria to prevent self-pollination and enhance hybrid vigor.

Concerns raised by the Supreme Court:

• The Court's main concern seems to be regarding the potential environmental and health risks associated with releasing a genetically modified organism (GMO) into the environment.

• Specific concerns may include:

• Unforeseen consequences of introducing foreign genes into a natural ecosystem.

• Potential impact on biodiversity and pollinators.

• Long-term health effects of consuming GM food products.

Current status:

• The Supreme Court has directed the government to take all necessary steps to ensure biosafety before considering large-scale cultivation of DMH-11.

• This includes conducting further research, addressing public concerns, and establishing proper regulatory mechanisms.

Perspectives on the issue:

• Proponents of DMH-11 argue that it is a safe and promising technology with the potential to significantly benefit Indian farmers and consumers.

• They point to extensive field trials and safety assessments conducted by GEAC.

• Opponents, including some environmental groups and farmers' organizations, express concerns about the potential risks and lack of transparency in the regulatory process.

• They call for more independent research and public participation in decision-making.

What to stay updated:

• To stay informed about the latest developments on this issue, you can follow reliable sources like:

• The Supreme Court of India website

• Official press releases from the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

• Reports from reputed scientific and environmental organizations

• Independent news media outlets covering the story

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court's concerns highlight the importance of careful consideration and thorough risk assessment before releasing any GMO into the environment. This debate requires an open and transparent dialogue involving scientists, policymakers, farmers, and the public to ensure a well-informed decision for the future of Indian agriculture.