Advancements in genetically modified insect pest-resistant crops in India

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology
• Crop Science

Background:

• India faces significant crop losses, estimated at USD 36 billion annually, due to insect pests.
• Innovative techniques, including transgenics, have advanced insect pest management over the last two decades.
• Research in insect pest-resistant transgenics in India has progressed significantly since 2002.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current research on insect pest-resistant transgenic crops in India.
• To examine the regulatory landscape governing genetically modified (GM) crop cultivation in India.
• To assess the potential of new regulatory frameworks for developing novel insect-resistant crops.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of research on insect pest-resistant transgenics.
• Analysis of regulatory policies for GM crops in India.
• Examination of biosafety impediments and recent regulatory exemptions.

Main Results:

• Despite research advancements, only Bt cotton has reached commercial release due to biosafety impediments.
• A significant portion of India's diverse crop varieties are vulnerable to insect pests.
• A recent decision exempts certain gene-edited plants from GMO regulations, offering new development avenues.

Conclusions:

• Insect pest-resistant transgenic crops hold potential for Indian agriculture.
• Regulatory frameworks significantly impact the adoption and development of GM crops in India.
• Exemptions for gene-edited plants may foster innovation in developing novel insect-resistant crop varieties.