• Crops with altered genes using genetic engineering.
  • Genes from other organisms inserted to enhance:
    • Yield
    • Disease resistance
    • Nutritional value
  • Bt Cotton was the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India until now.

About GM Mustard (DMH-11)

  • India’s first indigenously developed GM mustard.
  • Developed by Delhi University.
  • Hybridization:
    • ‘Varuna’ (Indian variety) × ‘Early Heera-2’ (East European variety).

Genetic modification:

    • Uses two genes, ‘barnase’ & ‘barstar’, from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (bacterium).
  • Yield Increase:
    • 28% higher than the national average.
    • 37% higher than local mustard varieties.

Role of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)

  • Regulatory body under: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.
  • Functions:
    • Reviews environmental impact of GM crops & hazardous organisms.
    • Approves field trials & commercial release of GM organisms.
  • Structure:
    • 24 members, chaired by a senior official from the ministry.
    • Meets monthly to assess GM crop applications.