Why Should India Choose GM Mustard?

As the world's second-largest producer of mustard, India has a long-standing association with this versatile oilseed crop. To enhance productivity, ensure food security, and uplift the agricultural economy, genetically modified (GM) mustard has emerged as a viable solution. GM mustard, scientifically known as Brassica juncea, has the potential to significantly alter India's agricultural environment. GM mustard has a variety of favorable consequences that can move India's economy forward by combining advantageous features such as enhanced yield, pest resistance, and improved oil quality.

What are Genetically Modified(GM) crops?

To confer new properties such as increased yield, herbicide tolerance, disease resistance, etc., GM crops involve the artificial modification of plant genes by introducing genetic material from other organisms. DMH-11, a transgenic mustard variety, has been developed in India by crossing the Indian mustard variety 'Varuna' with the East European 'Early Heera-2' mustard, resulting in a genetically modified variant of Herbicide Tolerant (HT) mustard. DMH-11 yielded roughly 28% more than national checks and 37% more than zonal checks, and its use was claimed and approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).

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Why India Should Choose GM Mustard?

The following are some significant reasons for which GM Mustard crop should be chosen:-

Addressing Food Security

With a rapidly growing population, ensuring food security is of utmost importance for India. GM mustard's higher yield potential and improved resistance to pests and diseases can contribute to meeting the country's increasing demand for edible oil and reduce dependence on imports. This would strengthen India's food security by enhancing self-sufficiency in mustard production.

Economic Prosperity for Farmers

GM mustard's positive impacts on yield, pest resistance, and oil quality can lead to increased profits for farmers. By cultivating GM mustard, farmers can enhance their incomes, improve their standard of living, and contribute to the overall economic prosperity of rural communities.

Technological Advancement and Innovation

Accepting GM mustard will demonstrate India's commitment to agricultural technological improvements. India can demonstrate its openness to adopt innovative solutions that boost crop productivity, assist farmers, and position the country as a leader in agricultural research and development by incorporating genetic engineering techniques.

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Positive Impacts on India's Agricultural Economy

The following are some positive impacts that GM Mustard has provided:-

Increased Yield and Productivity

 GM mustard has been genetically engineered to enhance its yield potential. The introduction of novel genes helps optimize plant growth, leading to increased mustard production per hectare. Higher yields translate to increased income for farmers and contribute to overall agricultural growth, ensuring a more prosperous economy.

Pest and Disease Resistance

Pests and diseases can severely impede mustard farming, resulting in crop losses and lower farmer revenue. GM mustard contains characteristics that give pest resistance, including aphid and diamondback moth resistance. GM mustard reduces crop losses by minimizing insect damage, allowing farmers to plant healthier and more profitable crops.

Improved Oil Quality

To improve the oil quality of the seeds, GM mustard cultivars have been created. These cultivars yield oil with higher quantities of healthy fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which have various health benefits. Improved oil quality not only improves mustard oil's nutritional value but also its market worth, helping to economic growth in the edible oil business.

Reduced Reliance on Imports

 India is currently dependent on importing large quantities of edible oils to meet its domestic demand. By adopting GM mustard and boosting its production, India can reduce its reliance on imported oils, saving valuable foreign exchange. Increased self-sufficiency in edible oil production would strengthen India's economy and improve food security.

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