Union Government Seeks Resolution for Agricultural Policy Implications, GM Mustard Hybrid Approval Under Scrutiny
The Union government has sought a resolution for the agricultural policy implications surrounding the approval of genetically modified (GM) mustard hybrid DMH-11. While the government wants the issue to be resolved promptly, it has also emphasized that the ongoing research and testing process should continue until its conclusion.
With the second growing season for GM mustard hybrid DMH-11 approaching in September and October 2023, the Centre has requested the court to consider discharging its previous oral statement, made in a specific context and for a limited purpose at the time. The government believes that the conditional approval granted on October 25, 2022, has been the result of a meticulous 12-year-long scientific evaluation, expert deliberation, and regulatory review conducted under a comprehensive regulatory regime.
In response to the government’s plea, the bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan has directed the petitioner NGO, Gene Campaign, and others to submit their response. The court will then consider the matter next week.
The Union government’s additional affidavit, submitted on November 09, 2022, along with its detailed submissions during various hearings, asserts that the conditional approval of GM mustard hybrid DMH-11 was based on well-considered scientific evaluation. The government has emphasized that the decision was made after expert deliberations and regulatory reviews, ensuring a robust evaluation process.
As the debate on genetically modified crops continues, this decision and its implications on agricultural output and farmers’ income hold significant importance. The Union government’s plea for resolution signifies its recognition of the need for clarity in this matter.
While striking a balance between the exploration of new agricultural technologies and addressing concerns regarding their potential impact, it is crucial to ensure that farmers’ well-being and productivity are not compromised. The forthcoming court decision will be eagerly awaited by stakeholders on both sides of the debate.
It remains to be seen how the court will evaluate the Union government’s plea, taking into consideration the scientific evaluations, expert opinions, and regulatory reviews that have formed the basis for the conditional approval of GM mustard hybrid DMH-11. The resolution of this issue will undoubtedly shape the future of agricultural policy and the use of genetically modified crops in India.
In conclusion, the Union government’s request for an early resolution of the agricultural policy implications surrounding the GM mustard hybrid DMH-11 approval has set the stage for an important decision. The court’s forthcoming ruling will shed light on the regulatory regime’s effectiveness and determine the future trajectory of genetically modified crops in the country. Both proponents and opponents of GM crops eagerly await the court’s decision, which will have far-reaching consequences for farmers, agricultural output, and the overall agricultural sector in India.
