Unlocking India’s Agricultural Future: How Genetic Innovation is Transforming Farming

Syllabus: Agriculture

Source: IE

Context: India is under pressure to embrace genetically modified (GM) crops. While biotech innovation is vital for growth, it faces many hurdles domestically.

• Only Bt cotton is authorized for farming. Other GM crops, like Bt brinjal and GM mustard, are still trying to get through regulatory red tape.

Current State of Indian Agriculture:

• **Cotton Yields Declining:** From 566 kg/ha (2013-14) to 436 kg/ha (2023-24). This is far behind major producers like China and Brazil.
• **Importing Cotton:** India, once a net exporter, has become a net importer, with imports reaching $0.4 billion in 2024-25.
• **Limited Biotech Cultivation:** Currently, just Bt cotton is officially planted; other GM varieties remain stuck in approval processes.
• **Yield Gap:** India’s average cotton yield stands at 436 kg/ha, while China and Brazil achieve over 1,800 kg/ha.
• **Technological Lag:** Global GM crop acreage surpassed 200 million hectares, but India lags due to regulatory challenges and political reluctance.

Government Role in Agriculture:

• Introduction of Bt Cotton (2002): Initiated under the Vajpayee government, boosting output by 193% in ten years.
• Challenges in Policy (SPCO 2015): Price caps on cotton seeds reduced incentives for biotech innovation.
• Awaiting GM Mustard Approval (2022): Despite initial clearance, commercial use is uncertain.
• Recent Initiatives: The Jai Anusandhan Initiative is a ₹1 lakh crore fund aimed at enhancing agricultural research and development.

Challenges Hindering Progress:

• Regulatory Delays: Crops like Bt brinjal are still awaiting approval, having been under moratorium since 2009.
• Illegal Usage: Despite a ban, HT-Bt cotton is found in five states, covering up to 25% of cotton-growing areas.
• Policy Rigidity: Policies that cap fees discourage innovation and private investment.
• Pest Problems: Cotton crops are under threat from pests like pink bollworms and whiteflies, impacting yields.
• Farmer Risks: Farmers who use unregulated seeds face a higher risk of crop failures.

Opposition to GM Crops:

• Environmental Concerns: Adding GM crops could harm biodiversity and contaminate native plants.
• Health Doubts: There’s ongoing debate about long-term health impacts, leading to public skepticism.
• Seed Dependency: GM seeds often come with strict rights, making farmers reliant on major corporations for seeds.

For instance, disputes involving Monsanto highlight the concerns about seed autonomy.

• Regulatory Trust Issues: Lack of transparency in approvals has led to protests from farmers and scientists.

As seen with the 2009 moratorium on Bt brinjal, public opposition can shape policy decisions.

• Economic Risks: High costs of GM seeds may drive small farmers out of the market, widening inequality.

Importance of Innovation in Agriculture:

• Success of Bt Cotton: This crop boosted productivity by 87% in regions like Gujarat.
• Global GM Crop Usage: More than 76 countries now grow GM crops, which help in raising yields and lowering costs.
• Potential of GM Mustard and Brinjal: These crops could cut pesticide use and improve food security.
• Innovation-Driven Growth: Initiatives like Jai Anusandhan could revitalize agriculture provided they focus on market needs.
• Biotechnology for Development: Former PM Vajpayee once said that biotech could play a role similar to IT in rural progress.

Conclusion:

To secure its agricultural future, India needs to promote scientific innovation over protectionist policies. Bridging the gap between regulation and practical application is essential. By commercializing well-tested GM crops, India can achieve food security, ensure rural prosperity, and improve its global standing.

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