- The GEAC is the apex technical body responsible for regulating activities related to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genetically modified (GM) seeds in India.
- It functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
- Legal Basis: Governed by the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
New Rules for GEAC Members
- Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
- Expert members must disclose any conflict of interest (direct or indirect) that could affect their ability to make impartial decisions.
- This ensures transparency and accountability.
- Conflict Mitigation:
- Experts are required to take necessary steps to ensure that any potential conflict of interest does not influence their decisions or the committee’s actions.
- Declaration Prior to Meetings:
- An expert member with direct or indirect association with a subject under discussion must disclose their interest before the meeting begins.
