The reserved position of India toward genetically modified (GM) crops is a result of complicated scientific, environmental, health, and socioeconomic issues. Although GM technology will increase yield and resistance to pests, there are still issues of long-term human health, which have not been adequately tackled because of a lack of independent studies. There has been an environmental concern with the environmental risks that the gene flow may cause to native crops, loss of biodiversity, and the occurrence of super pests. India is highly susceptible to irreversible ecological effects due to the fact that its agricultural biodiversity is rich. Another important issue is farmer welfare, which can be higher in costs and lessen seed sovereignty by relying on patented GM seeds. The experiences with Bt cotton, despite its success in certain areas, also reported farmer distress, pest resistance, and disproportionate benefits. Weaknesses in the regulatory environment and the absence of strong post-release surveillance further undermine the belief in the safety of GM crops. Policies have been affected by the opposition of the people, ethical factors, and the desire to have their risks adequately assessed. Until effective biosafety frameworks, long-term data, and policies that focus on farmers are put in place, India still follow precaution rather than fast-tracking adoption.
MBH/AB