What is meant by genetically modified crops ? Write their role in agriculture with a note on the legitimate concerns about transgenic agriculture.
In short
Genetically modified crops carry inserted foreign genes for traits such as pest resistance and drought tolerance, raising yields and cutting pesticide use. Legitimate concerns include gene flow creating superweeds, allergenicity and costly patented seeds, so India regulates them under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and its 1989 Rules.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 273 words
Comprehensive Biosafety Guidelines
India regulates GM crops under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and its 1989 Rules, with Department of Biotechnology guidelines, ensuring environmental and food safety through case-by-case risk assessments.
Role of Committees
The Central Sub-committee on Crop Standards1 and the Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Food Processing2 provide oversight and recommend strengthening R&D for climate-resilient seeds. These bodies also emphasize integrating biosafety with farmers’ rights and biodiversity conservation.
Enhanced Productivity and Climate Resilience
Bt cotton and climate-smart varieties like SAATVIK chickpea have increased yields and reduced pesticide use in Andhra Pradesh, supporting nutritional security and economic benefits for farmers.
Strengthen State-Level R&D and Farmer Training
Enhance funding for biotechnology research and implement extension programs integrating traditional knowledge with modern methods in Andhra Pradesh. This includes developing locally adapted GM crops with farmer participation.
Inclusive Policy Frameworks
Balance intellectual property rights with farmers’ access and biodiversity conservation to ensure equitable benefits from transgenic agriculture. Transparent biosafety surveillance mechanisms should also be established at the state level.
This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.
Practise this question
1Get the answer sheet
Sized for this question.
2Write your answer
Timed, by hand.
3Get it marked
Your score and what to fix.
This chapter in the exam
Human diseases; genetic engineering basics; biotechnology in agriculture; vaccines54 questions
Asked in 8 of 8 sittings since 2008
Most tested: Vaccines and immunisation, alongside GM crops/biotech agriculture.
- 2025Discuss the transmission dynamics of respiratory tract infections in densely populated urban settings. Propose effective public health strategies for their prevention.
- 2025Examine how urban infrastructure influences the implementation of preventive measures during microbial disease outbreaks. Suggest technology-driven solutions.
All 54 questions, sorted by sub-topic, with model answers and practice.
Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2008 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.