GM Crops – In the realm of Indian agriculture, the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops has always been a subject of heated debate. Among these, Bt Brinjal—an eggplant genetically modified to resist pests—has been one of the most discussed innovations. But who decides whether such a crop can be cultivated or not in India? The answer lies with the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC). This apex body plays a crucial role in regulating and approving GM organisms, including crops like Bt Brinjal, to ensure they are safe for both the environment and human health.
What is the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)?
The GEAC is a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). It was established under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 and is the final authority in India for granting approval for the commercial release of GM organisms and products.
Key Responsibilities of GEAC:
- Evaluating applications for research, testing, and release of GMOs.
- Assessing environmental and health risks associated with GMOs.
- Monitoring and compliance of GM crop trials and commercial cultivation.
- Making policy recommendations to the central government regarding GMO use.
The GEAC consists of representatives from various ministries, scientific bodies, and state governments, ensuring a multi-disciplinary evaluation process.
What is Bt Brinjal?
Bt Brinjal is a genetically modified variety of eggplant developed to resist the fruit and shoot borer, a pest that drastically reduces brinjal yields in India. It contains a gene from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which produces a protein toxic to the pest but safe for human consumption.
Benefits Claimed by Proponents:
- Reduced use of chemical pesticides.
- Higher crop yields and improved farmer income.
- Lower environmental impact due to reduced pesticide application.
However, the crop has also faced strong opposition over safety concerns, biodiversity impacts, and farmers’ rights.
The Regulatory Journey of Bt Brinjal in India
1. Development Phase:
Bt Brinjal was developed by Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company (Mahyco) in collaboration with US-based Monsanto and several Indian agricultural universities.
2. Field Trials and GEAC Evaluation:
- GEAC conducted extensive field trials from early 2000s.
- Biosafety data was submitted and reviewed over several years.
- GEAC recommended the commercial release of Bt Brinjal in October 2009, deeming it safe.
3. Public Outcry and Moratorium:
Following GEAC’s clearance, a wave of public consultations, led by then Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh, revealed widespread concern among farmers, scientists, and civil society groups.
- In February 2010, a moratorium was placed on the commercial release of Bt Brinjal, which remains in effect.
GEAC’s Role: Balancing Innovation with Safety
While GEAC approved Bt Brinjal based on scientific evidence, its role extends beyond technical clearance. It must also consider:
- Ethical concerns.
- Long-term environmental impact.
- Socio-economic consequences, especially for small farmers.
GEAC’s cautious approach is rooted in the “precautionary principle”, ensuring irreversible damage is avoided in agriculture—a sector deeply intertwined with rural livelihoods and food security.
Criticisms of GEAC
While GEAC plays a critical role, it has also faced criticism on several grounds:
- Lack of transparency: Critics argue that biosafety data and trial results are not always publicly available.
- Conflicts of interest: Some members of GEAC have affiliations with biotech companies.
- Limited stakeholder representation: Farmer voices, especially from marginalized communities, are often underrepresented.
Current Status of GM Crop Approvals in India
Apart from Bt Cotton (approved in 2002 and widely cultivated), no other GM crop has been commercially approved in India as of 2025. Bt Brinjal remains under moratorium, although other GM food crops like GM Mustard (DMH-11) have recently been under GEAC consideration.
International Context: Bt Brinjal in Bangladesh
Interestingly, while India continues to debate Bt Brinjal, Bangladesh approved and commercialized Bt Brinjal in 2013. The crop has been adopted by thousands of farmers there, with reports of improved yields and reduced pesticide usage.
This international comparison often fuels debates within India, urging reconsideration of the moratorium.
The Way Forward
To make an informed decision on GM crops like Bt Brinjal, India needs:
- A transparent and inclusive regulatory framework.
- Wider public consultations with scientific literacy efforts.
- Clear labeling laws for GM foods.
- Independent long-term studies on environmental and health impact.
GEAC must evolve to not only rely on scientific data but also ensure trust, inclusivity, and public participation in decision-making.
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the backbone of India’s GMO regulatory framework. Its role in evaluating Bt Brinjal showcases the delicate balance it must maintain between promoting innovation and protecting public interest. As science continues to evolve, so must our regulatory systems—ensuring that agriculture remains safe, sustainable, and productive for the generations to come.
FAQs
Q1. What is the GEAC’s main function?
A: GEAC is responsible for assessing and approving genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in India, including crops like Bt Brinjal.
Q2. Why was Bt Brinjal not commercially approved in India?
A: Despite GEAC’s recommendation, Bt Brinjal’s release was halted due to public concerns and a moratorium imposed in 2010.
Q3. Is Bt Brinjal grown in any country?
A: Yes, Bt Brinjal is being successfully cultivated in Bangladesh since 2013.
Q4. What are the benefits of Bt Brinjal?
A: It reduces pesticide usage, increases yield, and helps improve farmer income.
Q5. How can GEAC build public trust in GM crop decisions?
A: By ensuring transparency, wider stakeholder involvement, and making all biosafety data publicly accessible.
How does the GEAC evaluate and approve GM crops in Indian agriculture?
By following regulatory processes and assessing safety and environmental impact.
